Hiking in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness
5 trails in this Colorado region — with elevation, distance, and seasonal recommendations.
Mad Creek Trail
Climb from the Mad Creek Trailhead into the Mount Zirkel Wilderness along Mad Creek. Aspen, conifer, and meadow terrain with multiple side trails. Excellent fall colors in late September. Connects to longer trails into the Zirkel high country.
Gilpin Lake Trail
Premier Mount Zirkel Wilderness loop combining Gilpin Lake, Gold Creek Lake, and Mica Basin. The lakes are dramatic alpine destinations with the Sawtooth Range looming above. Backpack-friendly with multiple camp sites.
Mica Lake Trail
From the Slavonia Trailhead, climb to Mica Lake in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. The lake is set in a dramatic cirque with talus slopes and alpine meadows. Mica deposits give the bedrock a sparkly appearance.
Mount Zirkel Trail
Summit climb to Mount Zirkel (12,180 ft), the high point of the Park Range. From the Slavonia Trailhead, climb past Gilpin Lake, then up to the summit. Real backcountry day requiring acclimatization and full preparation.
Lake Elbert Trail
Mt Zirkel Wilderness lake hike from the Slavonia area. Trail climbs through pine and conifer forest before opening into a high meadow with Lake Elbert. Quieter than the popular Gilpin/Mica Lake loop nearby.