St. Louis Lake Trail

The St. Louis Lake Trail is located in Grand County, Colorado, near Winter Park, within the Fraser Experimental Forest. The trailhead is considered 'unconventional' because you'll first encounter a roughly 3-mile road section before reaching the singletrack trail. Parking is available at the start of this access road. Note that the road is closed to motor vehicles between November 15 and June 15.

Many hikers choose to bike the initial 3-mile road section to save time and energy, as it leads into the dense forest where the steeper ascent begins. There's a bike rack available at the end of this road section where you can secure your bike before continuing on foot to St. Louis Lake.

The trail is generally rated as moderate to hard. While the komoot route is about 7.5 km with 538m of elevation gain, other descriptions mention routes up to 12 miles with 2,245 feet of climb, reaching a maximum elevation of 11,567 feet. The singletrack portion is described as a 'blue difficulty alpine singletrack', indicating a significant challenge, especially with the elevation gain.

The komoot route suggests an average duration of around 2 hours and 27 minutes for the 7.5 km hike. However, a longer 9.5 km looped trail is estimated to take about 2 hours and 40 minutes. Your actual time will depend on your pace, the route you take, and how long you spend enjoying the lake.

After the initial road section, the trail enters a thick forest with several creek crossings. As you climb, it eventually breaks out of the dense trees into the treeline, revealing St. Louis Lake nestled in an alpine bowl. You'll be treated to 'sublime views' over the valley, framed by a rim of 'bald peaks', and may encounter wildflowers and wildlife. The lake itself is considered 'one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Fraser Valley'.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early autumn. Be aware that snow can persist in the higher elevations into July, so check conditions before you go. The access road is closed to motor vehicles from November 15 to June 15, which impacts how you can reach the trailhead during those months.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

The St. Louis Lake Trail is located within the Fraser Experimental Forest, which is part of the Arapaho National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day hiking on this trail, nor are there entrance fees for the forest itself. However, if you plan to backpack and camp overnight around St. Louis Lake, you should check with the local Forest Service office for any specific regulations or permits required for backcountry camping. You can find more information on the USDA Forest Service website: usda.gov.

Yes, swimming is possible in St. Louis Lake when the weather permits. Given its alpine location, the water will be cold, but it can be a refreshing dip on a warm summer day after your hike.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Saint Louis Lake Trail and the St Louis Pass Trail.

Yes, St. Louis Lake is a popular destination for backpacking, with backcountry campsites available around the lake. If you plan to camp, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and check with the local Forest Service for any specific regulations or permits required for overnight stays.