Apr 10
6
Blue Lakes Near Ouray, Colorado
Distance: 6.6 miles RT to lower lake
Elevation Gain: 1600′
Starting Elevation: 9,350′
Rating: Moderate
Blue Lakes from Saddle Near Mt Sneffels
The Blue Lakes Trail between Ridgway and Telluride is perhaps my all time favorite hike or at least in the top 3. The color of the lakes brings to mind some of the glacial lakes around Lake Louise near Banff.
The Blue Lakes Trailhead is just a little beyond Ridgeway, Colorado to the Dallas Creek Rd off of Hwy 62. The trail is well marked and the hike is not too difficult.
You can make the round trip to lower Blue Lake in a easy half-day hike but I would recommend heading up to the upper lakes for a view that’s not to be missed.
Once you’ve reached the Upper Blue Lake you can just hang out and soak up the view or head up to the saddle if you have energy to burn.
The hike up to the saddle is steep and difficult but when you reach it you can peer over to Yankee Boy Basin where many people start the hike up Mt. Sneffels; one of Colorado’s many fourteeners.
This hike will certainly work up an appetite so stop by one of Ouray’s charming eateries for a refreshing beverage and snack or meal. The historic Beaumont Hotel bar is perfect for sipping a glass of your favorite wine or The Saloon at The Historic Western Hotel for pizza, burgers or other grill fare.
Don’t miss The Silver Nugget for breakfast. If you plan to spend the night here (you should,) there are many inviting lodging choices. Best Western Twin Peaks has some of the most comfy beds around and they offer an on site hot springs pool.
