Little Molas and Molas Lakes

The primary trailhead is located at the Little Molas Lake Trailhead — Colorado Trail. Parking is typically available here, offering convenient access to the route.

No, you generally do not need a specific permit or pay an entrance fee for day hiking on this trail within the San Juan National Forest. However, if you plan to camp, especially in designated areas, always check with the National Forest Service for current regulations and any required permits.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall (June to September) when the snow has melted, and wildflowers are abundant. Even in summer, you might encounter occasional snow patches, especially at higher elevations. The area is also popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.

The difficulty varies significantly depending on how much of the trail you explore. A simple stroll around Little Molas Lake is considered 'super easy' and great for families. The primary 6.0-mile out-and-back route connecting Little Molas and Molas Lakes is a peaceful, relatively easy trek. However, sections that are part of the broader Colorado Trail can be more challenging, with significant elevation changes and altitudes above 10,000 feet, which can be difficult for those unaccustomed to high elevation.

The terrain features high alpine landscapes, including expansive meadows and spruce-fir forests. You'll traverse areas with open vistas, some sections with steep ascents, and generally accessible paths. Hikers might encounter creeks and occasional snow patches, even during summer months.

You can expect stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, including the Grenadier Range and West Needle Mountains. The trail offers picturesque alpine lakes like Little Molas Lake, vibrant wildflowers, and diverse geological formations. You'll also pass through areas affected by the 1879 Lime Creek Burn, which now feature vast meadows with replanted lodgepole pines.

The area is rich in wildlife. You might frequently sight deer and elk. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with waterfowl, jays, and woodpeckers inhabiting the dense forests.

Yes, this route provides convenient access to the iconic Colorado Trail, a 471-mile route between Denver and Durango. The trail also passes through sections of the Molas - Colorado Trail and Molas Lake Trail.

While the area transforms into a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter, traditional hiking can be challenging due to snow and ice. If you plan a winter visit, be prepared with appropriate gear and check conditions beforehand.

Beyond hiking, the lakes offer opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing during warmer months. In winter, it's a popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.