Jewel Lake Hike

Adventure into the wilderness of the Colorado high-country on the Jewel Lake Hike. This stunning alpine adventure travels to extreme altitudes, so ensure you are acclimated to the area’s elevations prior to your expedition. We also suggest checking the forecast to avoid getting caught in an afternoon storm, which are so common to the Front Range peaks. If you choose to venture this path in the winter or fall, we recommend microspikes or snowshoes to help navigate the likely icy and snowy terrain. A park pass is also needed to utilize these trails.

Embark on your adventure along the Jewel Lake Trail from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. From here, track south, passing the first junction, but at the next, veer left. Hike southeast along the Glacier Gorge Trail as it merges with the Glacier Creek. Ascend the aspen grove and the trail will deliver you to Alberta Falls. Revel in the mesmerizing cascades and continue trekking up the forested path. At the next intersection, keep right and hike around the base of the Glacier Knobs. Keep left at the next junction, maintaining along the Glacier Gorge Trail.

Soon you will pass the Glacier Falls. This is a great spot to rest before the final push to Jewel Lake. Hike up the route to Mills Lake. Revel in the crystalline lake and hike along its shore to Jewel Lake. From Jewel Lake, hikers will be rewarded with dumbfounding mountain vistas. Admire the stunning scenery and when you are rested and refueled, retrace your steps back along the path back to the trailhead.