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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
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.
49 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.7 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.
2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Mud Lake

Panorama on Mud Lake snowshoe trail in Indian Peaks, Colorado
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Mud Lake is a mountain park located off the Peak to Peak Hwy, it is excellent for beginner cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking and fat biking. There are several trails in the area taking you to different overlooks and around Mud Lake, which makes for a really fun, choose your own adventure style day out!

Route Description for Mud Lake

A winter hike along the Mud Lake trail is a figure 8 loop, comprising Tungsten Loop and Kinnickinnick Loop. Beginning the trail at the Tungsten Loop, circle around Mud Lake. Mud Lake is not the most amazing lake in the area, as the name suggests, but it is a nice addition to the beautiful forest. Follow the trail to the junction with Kinnickinnick Loop.

There are a couple of overlooks with park benches along the Kinnickinnick Loop providing a place to stop and take in the distant views of Indian Peaks Wilderness. Circle back to the junction between the two loops and rejoin Tungsten Loop and eventually make your way back to the trailhead.

This is a well-travelled trail so the snow will be packed down with snowshoe and ski tracks, as well as footprints. This makes it ideal for fat biking.

Insider Hints for Mud Lake

  • Snowshoes can be rented in the Town of Nederland at Happy Trails Café or Wild Bear Ecology Center.
  • This is a popular trail for fat biking. These can be rented from the Tin Shed.
  • Visit the Town of Nederland! * Where to Eat: Crosscut Pizzeria & Taphouse * Coffee Shop: Happy Trails Cafe * Gear & Supplies: Mountain Man Outdoor Store * Groceries: Mountain People’s Co-op or B&F Mountain Market * Drinks: Very Nice Brewing Company

Getting to the Mud Lake Trailhead

From Boulder, Colorado, head up Boulder Canyon 119 towards Nederland (approximately 18.0mi) and enter a traffic circle. Continue straight through the traffic circle to Peak to Peak Hwy. Approximately 1.5mi out of town there will be a brown sign for Caribou Ranch and Mud Lake Open Space. Take the dirt road to the left, following the signs for Mud Lake and arrive at the parking lot and trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Late November to Early April

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No Camping in the Mud Lake area

  • Toilets:

    Yes, primitive pit toilet

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Mud Lake Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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