Outbound Collective logo

Hike to Columbine Lake

Nederland, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

7 miles

Elevation Gain

1200 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Soneva Scott

This is a gorgeous hike, and is not a long drive from Winter Park/ Granby/ Grand Lake. The trail follows a river to get to the lake, and once arriving at the lake, there is a crystal-clear lake surrounded with scenic, jagged mountains. Absolutely beautiful.

The hike is about seven miles, give or take, however it feels longer. The elevation gain is little over 1000 feet. The drive here is about 45 minutes from both Granby and Winter Park, and is definitely worth it. 

You follow a trail dusted with wildflowers for the majority of the hike, and occasionally will burst through the forest into a meadow. The final destination of the lake is stunning, with jagged peaks surrounding a clear alpine lake. Amazing photo opportunities. I hiked here in early September... we started in the morning, which was very cold until the sun started to warm everything up! We only saw one group of people throughout the entire hike, which was very nice for a change from some of the more crowded hikes in that area. Would highly suggest for anyone who wants to do an intermediate, beautiful, dog-friendly, family-friendly, camping-friendly, hike!

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Fitness
Chillin
Camping
Fishing
Photography
Running
Swimming
Backpacking
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Picnic Area
River
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Cliff Jumping
Swimming Hole

Reviews

We went at the end of July 2022. The hike was beautiful. Lots of wildflowers but towards the end of the peak. Just before you get to the lake is so gorgeous. The lake is nice. Check the weather. We got poured on the way down and it was miserable. If there is a chance of rain be prepared. Lots of parking.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mirror and Crater Lakes via Cascade Creek Trail

Backpack to Caribou Lake

Hike the Arapaho Traverse

Hike to Diamond Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness

Hike to Arapaho Pass and Lake Dorothy

Hike South Araphaho Peak