Day HikeModerateSan JuansWildlifeHikingAlpineLake
Blue Lakes Trail
A spectacular San Juan hike climbing through three alpine lake basins toward the base of Mount Sneffels, with wildflowers, waterfalls, and 360-degree peaks.
Distance11.3 km
Duration5h
Gain762m
Max Elev3,500m
DifficultyModerate
TypePoint-to-point
SeasonJuly to September
Trail Weather
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The Blue Lakes Trail in the Mount Sneffels Wilderness near Ridgway is one of the most celebrated hikes in the San Juan Mountains. The trail climbs through a valley of wildflowers and aspen groves, passing three stunning alpine lakes — Lower, Middle, and Upper Blue Lake — each with turquoise water set against the sheer face of Mount Sneffels. The trail continues to the Blue Lakes Pass at 12,700 feet for those who want a more strenuous day. Round trip to Upper Blue Lake is 7 miles with 2,500 feet of gain. The fall colors in late September are exceptional.