Lake Elbert Trail

Overview

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. The full route covers 7 miles round trip with about 1,600 feet of climbing, and most hikers finish it in around 5 hours. It sits in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, near Steamboat Springs in Routt County, topping out at 10,300 feet.

Trail Highlights

How Hard Is It?

This is rated moderate. The long 7-mile distance paired with demanding 1,600 feet of gain is what sets the effort level. You hike out to the turnaround and return the same way, so you see the route twice and can turn back early without missing the payoff. You spend time above 10,000 feet, so pace yourself and drink more than you think you need. If you hike regularly, plan for roughly 5 hours of moving time; add a buffer for photos, snack stops, and the slower pace at altitude.

Best Time to Hike

The best seasons here are summer and fall. Summer is the reliable window once the snow clears, though that also means the busiest trailheads and the daily afternoon thunderstorm risk. In Colorado the weather turns fast in the high country, so start early, aim to be heading down by early afternoon, and watch the sky. Lightning, not distance, is what turns most summer hikes around.

Getting to the Trailhead

The trailhead is in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, closest to Steamboat Springs (Routt County). No pass or permit is required to park, though popular lots still fill early on summer weekends. The parking coordinates are 40.7000, -106.6800; plug those into your map app rather than the trail name, since several Colorado trailheads share names. Mountain weather and road closures can change access, so confirm the access road is open before a long drive.

Dogs & Kids

Dogs are allowed, and they should stay leashed to protect wildlife and other hikers. It is a tough one for young kids given the 7 miles and 1,600 feet of gain. Save it for older, trail-tested kids or go without them.

What to Pack

Pack the Colorado basics: more water than you expect, layers for a 30-degree temperature swing, sun protection for the high-altitude UV, and rain protection for the afternoon. For a long, demanding hike like this one, the gear that earns its weight most is comfortable footwear and a solid shell. Here is what we actually recommend for trails like this:

• ›hiking boots with real traction
• ›a packable rain shell
• ›trekking poles for the climb and descent
• ›a water filter for the longer day

Frequently Asked Questions