St. Mary’s Glacier Trail

Posted by Mary Norton in 60 Mins from Denver, All Trails, Easy/ Moderate, Hikes Near Denver, West of Denver category
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Difficulty

Easy/Moderate. Requires some climbing through boulders. Elevation gain approximately 350 ft.

Trail Length

Approximately 1.5 mile round trip

Trail Description

This is a very popular hike that will lead you to some of the most breathtaking scenery around!

From the parking lot you will hike about ½ mile up a gentle slope. This trail is heavily used and it is rugged because it follows a boulder field. You will wind your way in and around these rocks for about 20 minutes until you reach the glacial lake and the ice field itself (St. Mary’s glacier is actually not a glacier, but an ice field).

Spectacular views! The trail ends here, but there are many little trails that will take you around the water, and/or up to the snow itself.


Plan to take your camera, your picnic and maybe even a sled if you are daring enough to try out the snow. Also plan to spend a good 30 minutes wandering around the area just enjoying the valley, the water, and the beauty.

Picnic Site Recommendations:
Take your lunch and eat at the lake. There are many places to spread your meal and enjoy the crisp cool air.

Note: There is now ample parking, with two parking lots close to the trail head. Porta potties are there as well as dog waste bag dispenser, trash & recycle cans, and the only year round maintained legal parking for the area. DON’T PARK ON THE ROAD! You will get a $62.50 ticket so $5 parking is worth it! The charge is $5 per vehicle, per day. No change given and no ATm’s. Cash and checks only (they no longer accept credit cards).

Directions

Click Map Below for Directions or: From the Junction of C-470 and I-70, take I-70 west about 25 miles past Idaho Springs to Exit #238 (Fall River Rd. or Rd 275). Follow Fall River Rd. for approximately 9 miles until you see the trail to St Mary’s Glacier on your left. The parking area is past the trailhead on the left. You will see cars parked in a big open, dirt lot.

Attractions

Idaho Springs has a lot of little coffee shops (including drive-thru Starbucks) and cafés to eat at. One of our favorites is Beau Jo’s Pizza. (1517 Miner Street). There is also the famous Tommyknocker Brewery (famous beer, soda, and food are served in the Resturant, Pub & Brewery 1401 Miner St.) We also recommend the Georgetown Valley Candy Company ice cream shop.

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About Mary Norton, Author Of This Post

Mary grew up here, so she knows all the best places to go! With a family of 5 children and no lack of enthusiasm for the outdoors, Mary is well qualified to give you tips and hike spots that will challenge you as well as delight your whole family. Whether you have kids, dogs, or are just looking to enjoy nature by yourself, Mary will show you where to go to find what you are looking for.

  • Thehumps3

    7/31/10 I hike this trail with my family this morning. We arrived at around 9:30 and there were very few people hiking at that time. The trail is pretty rocky and sandy and I slipped a couple of times. I would suggest a hiking stick or poles (especially if you are hiking up the “glacier”). The trail itself to the lake is very short and once at the lake, the glacier trail is directly opposite. I sat on a boulder taking pictures & enjoying the views while my son and husband hiked up and down the glacier. The views are to die for!

    Thanks so much for you site. Lots of great info that I regularly use.

    • Mary Norton

      So glad you left your comments! St Mary’s Glacier Hike IS very special and very beautiful especially early in the day when there is nobody around! Thanks again and Happy Hiking!

  • ian myers

    My girlfriend and I live in Aurora and would love to hike this. Is it open to hike in March?

    • http://funcoloradohikes.com Mary Norton

      It is open in March, but it will still be covered in snow making it a tough climb unless you are experienced winter hikers with the appropriate gear. We would usually wait until late May to hike this one with our family. It’s a beautiful hike, good luck!

  • Carl

    Just a little tip to all who aren’t familiar with the parking situation : the parking lots are $5 cash or check and there isn’t an ATM or a place to make change anywhere near them. Stop at Idaho Springs and grab some cash. I learned the hard way :(

  • Mom2818

    This is one of my favorite hikes, it is so beautiful.