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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
740 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-6.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Baldwin Lakes Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Baldwin Lakes Trail is a wonderful adventure in the San Isabel National Forest up to a mountain basin laden with shimmering, blue-hued alpine lakes. Flanked by snow-capped Sawatch Mountain Range summits, this scenic hike delivers postcard-worthy views. Traveling along a shared off-roading route, this is an easy-to-follow path through Colorado’s alpine environment.

Route Description for Baldwin Lakes Trail

Ideal for those dipping their toes into high country hiking waters, the Baldwin Lakes Hike is a wonderful introductory ascent to high altitudes adventures. Travel along the semi-forest road amongst off-roaders and intrepid mountain bikers along the gurgling waters of Baldwin Creek up to the basin. In the company of fellow outdoor enthusiasts, you will be granted impressive views of Cronin Peak, Grizzly Mountain, Mount Mamma, and Boulder Mountain that hem the basin. Though taxing, the views from the trail’s culmination prove worth the effort. This versatile trail is open year-round; just trade your hiking boots for snowshoes in the winter. Note that the route is subject to seasonal vehicle closures, so check the bulletin at the trailhead.

Embark on your adventure along the Baldwin Lakes Trail from the Baldwin Gulch Trailhead. From here, track southeast along County Road 277. This section of the route will guide adventurers over several alpine creeks before encountering an intersection. At the fork, keep left, and you will be diverted south along Baldwin Creek. Hike the semi-forested route and let the meditative ambiance of the alpine stream lull you into a state of relaxation before confronting another junction. Keep right here, and you will shortly graduate from the timberline.

Admire the vibrancy of the alpine tundra’s vegetation as you trek up the increasingly rocky and steep terrain to the mountain basin. Revel in the views of the looming snow-capped peaks as you near the lakes. Soon you will summit the ridge; explore the blue-hued lakes that litter the basin, and rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly waters. Take a break as you appreciate the expansive vistas, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Baldwin Lakes Trail Trailhead

The Baldwin Lakes Trail departs from the Baldwin Gulch Trailhead off County Road 162.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    June-September

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Baldwin Lakes Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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