Hartenstein Lake Hike

The Hartenstein Lake Hike is an impressively scenic adventure up to a small, shimmering alpine lake. Surround yourself in a sea of gold as you venture through aspen groves and appreciate the ambiance of gurgling streams as you climb through the high country. Traveling deep into the wilderness, there is no shortage of scenery, but it is important to be mindful of wildlife! The trail is muddy and rocky in areas, so wear sturdy and water-resistant footwear to avoid damp feet! Note that this trail is often cloaked in snow, so consider a pair of snowshoes! Additionally, the road to the trailhead is subject to seasonal closure in the winter months.

Begin your adventure along the Hartenstein Lake Trail from the Denny Creek Trailhead. From here, take the Brown’s Pass Trail north, which will guide you beneath the timberline. Enjoy the sights of vibrant aspens interspersed with towering pines as you trek further into the wilderness. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection. Here, keep left and continue hiking along the curves of Denny Creek. This section of the path will intersect with a small meadow before arriving at another junction where you will want to veer left onto the Hartenstein Lake Trail. Now tracking west, this path will guide you to the shores of the alpine lake.

Revel in the postcard-worthy scenery of Hartenstein Lake. The small lake is encircled by lush, towering evergreens with sights of the snow-capped Sawatch Mountain Summits peeking above the treeline. Enjoy the wonderful sights, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the route all the way back to the trailhead.