Columbine Lake Trail

Trail Difficulty: Moderate. Some uphill climbing.

Trail Length:
Approximately 3 miles

Trail Description:
In the Arapaho National Forest you will surely enjoy this scenic hike!

The Columbine Lake Trail takes you through a beautiful area of the Indian Peaks Wilderness through varying terrain. The trail is well-maintained and well-traveled and takes you on a gradual uphill climb to the lake. Some areas are flat and easy while other parts of the trail require you to climb over hills and rocks.

There is beautiful scenery from beginning to end. You will begin in pine forest, then move into open marshy meadow with brilliant wildflowers, past waterfalls and on to Columbine Lake at the end of the trail. At the top you will be pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the water, the water falls, and the rocky mountains that form the continental divide around you.

What beauty!!

Restrooms available along the road before you arrive at the trailhead.

Picnic spot recommendations:
Pack yourself a picnic to enjoy at Columbine Lake. You will want to spend some time at the lake exploring the area.

Travel Time:
From Jct C-470 and I-70, approximately 90 minutes

How to get there:
From Jct C-470 and I-70, take I-70 west approximately 28 miles to US 40 (Exit 232 to Empire and Winter Park). Take US 40 through Winter Park and past Fraser about 3 miles. Exit onto CR 83 for .2 miles then go left onto CR 84 (Meadow Creek Rd). Follow Meadow Creek Rd (CR 84) for 10 miles to Meadow Creek Reservoir. Follow the road all the way around the reservoir to the northeast side to the trailhead. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead.

Special Attractions:
Winter Park offers many good places to stop for a snack or a meal. Stop for an Italian Soda along Hwy 40 in Winter Park or try something at one of the many little cafés along the way.