Top Lakes and Water Activities in Aspen
Aspen stands as one of Colorado's premier mountain destinations, offering visitors more than just world-class skiing. The region's pristine alpine lakes and diverse water activities provide exceptional recreational opportunities during the warmer months. From challenging high-altitude hiking trails that lead to crystal-clear mountain lakes to excellent fishing spots teeming with native trout, Aspen's waterways offer something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Best Lakes for Hiking
Crater Lake
The Crater Lake trail offers moderate difficulty across 3.7 miles roundtrip, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Starting from the Maroon Lake parking area, hikers climb approximately 500 feet through rocky terrain and aspen groves to reach the lake's shores. The trail provides panoramic views of iconic Elk Mountain features including the Maroon Bells, Pyramid Peak, and the Sleeping Sexton.
Access to this area requires a permit and reservation for vehicle entry. Visit the Forest Service website for current requirements. The lake itself fluctuates in size throughout the season before drying up in October. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with chances to spot moose, elk, bears, deer, marmots, and foxes along the trail.
Lost Man Lake
This Lost Man Lake 5.5-mile roundtrip hike presents moderate to difficult terrain, requiring 3.5 to 4 hours to complete. The trail climbs through open alpine meadows dotted with boulders and wildflowers, passing Independence Lake before reaching the final incline at Lost Man Pass. Hikers experience panoramic views overlooking Lost Man Lake, surrounded by wildflower meadows and mountain peaks.
The trail features steady inclines, several stream crossings, and rocky sections requiring some scrambling. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds common at higher elevations. Winter hikers should bring spikes or snowshoes for safe passage.
Cathedral Lake
Cathedral Lake presents a challenging 5.3-mile roundtrip hike requiring 4 to 4.5 hours. The difficult trail climbs through aspen groves, crosses rushing streams, and navigates rocky terrain filled with wildflowers. The destination rewards hikers with scenic alpine lake views surrounded by towering mountains.
This trail demands proper preparation and experience with challenging terrain. The elevation gain and rocky sections require steady footing and endurance.
American Lake
The American Lake trail covers 6.2 miles roundtrip with moderate difficulty, typically taking 4 to 4.5 hours. This route involves considerable elevation gain leading to a crystal-clear alpine lake bordered by pines and mountains. Visitors often spot trout in the clear waters, adding to the scenic experience.
Weller Lake
Perfect for families, the Weller Lake trail spans just 1 mile roundtrip with easy to moderate difficulty. The short hike meanders through pine forests, leading to a lake surrounded by boulders and pines with distant mountain views. Despite its accessibility, the trail includes some steep stretches and steps from the parking area.
Prime Lakes for Fishing
Maroon Lake
Maroon Lake supports sizable populations of stocked rainbow and brook trout. The best fishing occurs in late spring when receding ice restores fish access to surface insects and other food sources. Plan visits as soon as Maroon Creek Road opens, typically in mid-May, for optimal fishing conditions.
Anderson Lake
Anderson Lake requires 4WD access via Highway 82 to Lincoln Creek Road. Drive 6.5 miles to Portal Campground, then navigate 3.4 miles of loose, rocky tracks requiring high-clearance vehicles. The final approach involves a 1.2-mile hike with 500 feet of elevation gain. The lake hosts plus-size cutthroat trout in pristine mountain surroundings.
Grizzly Lake
Situated at 12,520 feet elevation, Grizzly Lake presents high-altitude fishing challenges and rewards. Colorado's native cutthroat trout inhabit this mountain-framed lake, though food scarcity for more than half the year affects fish populations. Access requires driving high-clearance vehicles up Lincoln Creek Road to Grizzly Reservoir, followed by a steep 3.6-mile hike to the tundra-covered shoreline.
The region's high-mountain lakes typically offer rainbow and cutthroat trout, with brown trout found in approximately half the lakes. Fish early morning and late evening for best results. All lakes encourage catch and release practices to maintain healthy fish populations.
Water Activities Beyond Hiking and Fishing
Ruedi Reservoir
Ruedi Reservoir provides excellent boating and fishing opportunities in a more accessible setting than high-alpine lakes. The reservoir's larger size accommodates various watercraft and offers consistent fishing throughout the season.
Colorado River
Experience whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, which flows through the Aspen area. The river provides exciting rapids and scenic float sections suitable for different skill levels. Professional outfitters offer guided trips ranging from gentle family floats to challenging whitewater adventures.
Tips for Visiting Aspen's Lakes
The fishing season for Aspen's high-mountain lakes runs from July through September due to high-altitude conditions. Weather changes rapidly at these elevations, requiring layered clothing and preparation for various conditions.
Catch and release practices help maintain healthy trout populations in these pristine environments. Approximately 21 lakes within the Aspen Ranger District contain hungry trout that see relatively few anglers.
Altitude considerations become crucial when visiting lakes between 9,000 to 12,500 feet elevation. Allow time for acclimatization and carry extra water to prevent altitude-related issues.
Backpacking permits are required for overnight stays at most locations. Free self-registration permits are available at trailheads, with no current limits on hiking numbers. However, bear canisters are mandatory for camping on certain trails like Buckskin Pass Trail to Snowmass Lake.
Plan visits between July and September for optimal conditions, though specific lakes may offer earlier or later access depending on elevation and snow conditions.
Experience Aspen's Alpine Paradise
Aspen's lakes and water activities showcase Colorado's natural beauty through diverse recreational opportunities. From family-friendly Weller Lake to challenging high-altitude destinations like Grizzly Lake, the region accommodates all experience levels and interests.
For those considering making Aspen their home base for mountain adventures, contact Ryan Schwartz for expert guidance on local real estate opportunities and insider knowledge about the area's best recreational spots.
