Kroenke Lake Hike

The Kroenke Lake Hike is an amazing hike that we cannot recommend enough. Perfect as a conditioning exercise before attempting a technical 14er ascent, this trek will get your heart rate up without over-exhausting you. Enjoy the gorgeous scenery and epic mountain views as you make your way up to the charming alpine lake. Note that the road up to the trailhead is rough and rugged, so we highly suggest a vehicle with high ground clearance and 4-wheel drive.

Your journey along the Kroenke Lake Hike begins at the North Cottonwood Trailhead. From here, hikers will take the Horn Fork Basin Trail west along the gurgling waters of the North Cottonwood Creek. Follow this path along the running waters and beneath the shade of towering pine trees. Eventually, you will be confronted with an intersection. Here, keep left, and you will be diverted onto the Kroenke Trail. Continuing along the creek, the path will become increasingly exposed as you near the lake.

Once you climb the ridge to the lake you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sight. Enjoy the scenery of Kroenke Lake, encircled by lush evergreens, and bounded by looming snow-capped peaks. Revel in the awe-inspiring panorama, and when you are ready to leave, simply retrace your footing all the way back to the trailhead.