Cascade Creek Trail

We’re telling you—hiking the Cascade Creek Trail up to the Mirror and Crater Lakes is a must on your next trip to Colorado. This trail takes you through the quintessential Colorado terrain up to alpine lakes nestled between jaw-dropping snow-dusted mountains. The Cascade Creek Hike will require hikers to conquer some technical terrain like a steep rock scree and downed trees, but it is all worth it. Not only will you be rewarded with inspiring vistas at the lakes, but the path there is just as scenic.

Start the Cascade Creek Trail at the Monarch Lake Trailhead. Continue along the trail as it guides you past Monarch Lake and along Buchanan Creek. You will eventually meet a fork in the road, turn right, continuing on Cascade Creek Trail. Along this path, you will pass a stunning waterfall as you gradually gain elevation. Follow along the woodland path until the next junction. Veer right, heading south on Crater Lake Trail. At this point the trail will become steeper as you ascend over the ridge to the lakes. Mirror Lake will be the first one you pass, and Crater Lake is the larger lake at the end of the trail.

Enjoy the sights of these shimmering lakes flanked by the Indian Peaks. Stay overnight at the lakes’ designated campsites or head back onto the trail. Either way, retrace your steps back to the parking lot when you are ready.