Originally published in the Fall 2020 issue of SPOKE+BLOSSOM

High in the lush Gunnison National Forest lies a hidden treasure famous for its fall foliage and magnificent views of the West Elk Mountains. Three Lakes Loop Trail, commonly known simply as Lost Lake Trail, is nestled in what is purportedly one of the world’s largest aspen groves. The aspen colony has been tested and found to grow from a single root system, and therefore is a single living organism.

The Three Lakes Loop Trail hiker is the beneficiary of this natural phenomenon, with shimmering orange and gold views around every bend. This stunning trail is well worth the trip to its remote location.

Traveling to the trail is nearly as enchanting as the trail itself. Enjoy poking around Crested Butte or Paonia — mountain towns with their own unique personalities that bookend your trip up Kebler Pass. Part of the West Elk Loop National Scenic Byway, the pass is a windy, well maintained dirt road with easy grades for all vehicles, through romantic valleys, towering peaks and alpine terrain.

At the midway point from either direction of 33-mile-long Kebler Pass (County Road 12), an intersection and signage direct travelers two miles to the Lost Lake Campground. Use the large parking area to the right of the campground where there are restrooms, water, and the west end trailhead. The trail begins at 9,600-foot elevation, is well marked, has a good tread way and an average eight percent slope. The trail is now yours. It can be done in 1.5 hours, or preferably at a leisurely pace allowing for countless photo opportunities and “wow” moments.

Starting at the west end trailhead will lead you in the popular counter clockwise direction of this 3.5-mile moderate loop. Aspen start to appear as you hike the gentle ascent to Lost Lake, the first of the three scenic lakes you’ll encounter. There are plenty of spots to enjoy the lake view or hike the trail around Lost Lake to add a mile to your adventure.

Just after Lost Lake you’ll hear a mighty roar and take a short detour to a picturesque waterfall. Back on the main trail, enjoy a grand vista of Ruby Range peaks and Marcellina Mountain. Continue on as you wind through the quaking aspen to an intersection descending to serene Dollar Lake — the perfect spot to relax and have a picnic lunch. There’s just something about Dollar Lake, its rugged backdrop and meditative atmosphere, which makes it difficult for hikers to tear themselves away.

Hike back up the Dollar Lake spur and turn right at the main trail intersection switch backing through the aspen forest, giving you glimpses of Lost Lake Slough, the largest of the three lakes. The trail eventually turns into a road down the middle of Lost Lake Campground, leading you back to the parking area.

The Three Lakes Loop area is popular for its many outdoor experience options. Free dispersed camping is easy to find, in addition to the campground. Wet your fishing line at any of the three lakes to catch rainbow and brook trout. Between wildlife viewing, wildflower meadows, rugged mountain peaks, aspen, fir and spruce forests, this is a photographer’s paradise. Horses and dogs are allowed on the trail, but no motorized vehicles in this peaceful setting.

Three Lakes Loop Trail can be enjoyed June through October. For premiere fall colors, late September/early October is the prime time to immerse yourself in this magical Western Colorado setting.

Take a Hike: Lost Lake — Three Lakes Loop Trail