Embarking on a hiking adventure in the James Peak Wilderness, specifically the Crater Lakes area, is a captivating experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of historical intrigue. This region, nestled in the Denver metro area, boasts a network of trails that lead to a series of pristine lakes, offering hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the wilderness while enjoying the tranquility of nature. The James Peak Wilderness, with its 15 lakes and over 20 miles of trails, provides a diverse and engaging experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the unique aspects of this hike is the proximity to the Continental Divide and the Moffat Tunnel, a historic railroad tunnel that adds an element of intrigue to the journey. The trailhead, conveniently located near the East Portal of the Moffat Tunnel, serves as a gateway to the wilderness. While the parking lot is spacious, it can get crowded during peak summer weekends, so hikers are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. The presence of bathrooms at the trailhead is a convenient feature, but hikers are encouraged to bring their own supplies, such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer, due to the popularity of the area.
The hiking options at the trailhead are varied, with the South Boulder Creek Trail No. 900 leading the way. A short distance into the hike, a trail split presents hikers with a choice: the real trail that winds through the trees or an old road that meanders to the left. The forest trail is the preferred route, offering a more scenic and enjoyable experience. As hikers progress, they encounter a sign with mileage markers, providing an estimate of the distance to various landmarks, including the Forest Lakes Trail junction, the Crater Lakes Trail junction, and Rogers Pass.
One of the intriguing features of this hike is the sound of the nearby creek, which is often accompanied by the loud, high-powered electrical fans used to clear diesel exhaust from passing trains. The Moffat Tunnel, in operation for nearly a century, adds a layer of history to the experience. Along the trail, hikers may stumble upon remnants of a cabin and metal artifacts, providing a glimpse into the area's past. These historical elements create a unique contrast with the natural surroundings, making the hike both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating.
The hike continues through a large meadow at the Forest Lakes junction, where hikers can enjoy the vibrant wildflowers and the remnants of past cabins. The Crater Lakes Trail then takes hikers back into the forest, climbing uphill towards the ultimate destination. The trail can be steep at times, with numerous downed trees cleared by crews, and hikers may find themselves navigating rock steps. After a mile and an additional 700 feet of elevation gain, the trail starts to level out, revealing the first glimpse of the Crater Lakes Lower South and Lower North lakes.
The Lower North Lake provides a picturesque spot for hikers to rest and enjoy the surroundings. For those seeking a more comprehensive exploration, the AllTrails map offers an alternative route that goes around the northwest side of the Lower North Lake, leading to a waterfall that marks the outflow of the upper lakes. The upper lakes are accessible via a more challenging route that involves rock scrambling and additional mileage and elevation gain.
The Crater Lakes hike is a rewarding journey, offering a balance of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With a total distance of about 6.5 miles and 1,400 feet of elevation gain to the two main lower lakes, and the option to venture further to the upper lakes, this hike caters to various fitness levels and interests. The diverse landscape, historical elements, and the opportunity to connect with nature make it a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts in the Denver metro area.
For those interested in exploring more, the author, Deb Stanley, encourages hikers to email her with questions or suggestions at HikingDebbie@gmail.com. Additionally, following her on Facebook at DenverHikingExaminer provides access to more great hiking recommendations, fostering a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts.
