Chittenden Lake Hike

Immerse yourself in the high country along the Chittenden Lake Hike. Venture through glaciated valleys, mixed forestlands, and granite gardens up to the shimmering alpine lake. There is no shortage of scenery to motivate even the most discouraged hikers along this route. Though this route can be completed as a challenging day hike, it makes for an epic overnight expedition through the backcountry. This path is not well signposted in areas, so we encourage the use of the trail GPS. Note those staying overnight will have to acquire a wilderness permit.

Setting out from the Fernandez trailhead, hike northwest. Shortly after you depart from the trailhead, you’ll reach a junction; keep right here. This path will guide you over several snow-melt streams before delivering you to yet another intersection. Again, keep right onto Trail 24E3, which will guide you northeast through the alpine terrain. At the next intersection, turn left onto the Lilian Lake Trail. This route will divert you west to Lilian Lake then onto Chittenden Lake.

You will be granted an amazing view of the postcard-worthy lake hemmed by granite bluffs, decorated with evergreens. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters, and when you are ready, head back along the path the way you came.