Columbine Lake is Must-Hike in the San Juan Mountains

This summer I decided to tackle the adventure of hiking to Columbine Lake located in Colorado. Multiple friends told me about this gem which combines clear waters and alpine scenery deep in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton Colorado.

I set off on a journey filled with anticipation while carrying my gear because I discovered the adventure exceeded my expectations.

My day started at dawn when I navigated the winding roads which led to Silverton Colorado before reaching the columbine lake trailhead. The “mountain san juan” region towers over me with its rocky peaks which light up during dawn.

The Forest Service Road 820 leads directly to the Columbine Lake trailhead. The gravel road remains accessible for standard passenger vehicles yet low-clearance vehicles must exercise extra caution during good weather conditions.

Parking was straightforward, but the lot was filling fast, it was clear that others had heard whispers of the wonders of Columbine Lake CO too. I recommend getting to the parking lot early since weekends tend to fill up quickly so you can obtain parking and minimize the number of people you encounter.

Discovering the Columbine Lake Trailhead

Length: 6.6mi

Elevation gain: 2,539ft

Estimated time: 4h 33m

More Info about the trail

The steep Columbine Lake Trail in San Juan National Forest consists of more than 16 switchbacks which lead hikers upward. The 4-mile hike to the lake demands 8 miles of return travel with elevation gain reaching 2,450 feet. Hikers at the summit will encounter thin air as they reach the height of 12,685 feet.

More than half the elevation gain is achieved in less than half the distance to the top. The trail is not just steep but is also slick with small rocks, dry and narrow in places, yet the stunning view at the end exceeds the challenging path. When you reach the lake you will discover an extraordinary experience awaits you.

The water is gorgeous. You will experience both mountainous scenery and vibrant wildflowers that line the entire path.

Day hikers do not need a permit, but must follow local fire bans and Leave. No Trace rules when camping overnight. This is a very tough trail.

Ascending into Alpine Splendor

The initial path leads you through trees and a small creek in a relaxing way for about a mile before the actual ascent begins. The authentic ascent will start without warning. The trail leads hikers through steep switchbacks that rise across the hillside until trees disappear with each height gain.

At just over 10,500 feet, oxygen becomes a precious commodity. I took regular pauses to both regain my breath and appreciate the mountain vistas that included alpine meadows with twisted pines and the endless range of the san juan mountains colorado.

The forest opened up after forty minutes to reveal the complete panorama of the mountain san juan. From my eastern position I watched the Million Dollar Highway stretch as a thin silver snake through the valley below.

A shark-like shape formed the Lookout Peak profile as it watched over the southern side. The slope leveled out for a brief sunflower-filled meadow that danced in the wind with their bright golden petals.

The steepest sections kicked in midway, and it was here I felt the full impact of the altitude, a reminder of my own limitations. Yet, pausing to catch my breath was no inconvenience.

For safety, I recommend bringing plenty of water, sturdy hiking boots, layers for quickly changing weather, and a reliable GPS or map. Weather in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado, can shift unpredictably, and thunderstorms—though brief—are common in the summer afternoons.

I finally arrived at the breathtaking blue waters of Columbine Lake. After hiking for almost four hours with both exhaustion and excitement. Located at almost 12,700 feet the lake presented genuine breathtaking views. The lake surrounded by rough mountains that retained their snowy coats reflected the deep blue sky above its water surface. Every stone and submerged log remained perfectly visible through the water because of its exceptional clarity.

I shed my pack and sat at the shoreline, boots off, feet plunged into the icy water. The wind carried the scent of pine and wild herbs, and the only sounds were the calls of distant birds and the gentle lapping of water against the rocks.

There’s no better reward for a tough hike, and no photo can truly capture the immensity of standing at Lake Columbine, surrounded by the mountain san juan landscape.

Nearby Adventures in the San Juan Mountains

While Columbine Lake was my primary destination, the surrounding San Juan Mountains offered countless other opportunities to explore.

Ice Lakes Basin: Often ranked among the best hikes in Colorado, the Ice Lakes Trail offers more jaw-dropping blue lakes and wildflower displays. The trailhead is just a short drive from Columbine Lake. (Check my other hiking post for Ice Lakes)
Engineer Mountain Trail: For those craving summit views, Engineer Mountain delivers big scenery with fewer crowds.
Animas River: Whitewater rafting and fly fishing opportunities abound, with guided trips available through reputable outfitters.
Highland Mary Lakes loop: rolling tundra and waterfalls, 6.8 mi round trip.

Seasonal Recommendations & Tips

The best time to hike to Columbine Lake, Colorado, is typically from late June to early October, depending on snow conditions. I personally visited in early July, enjoying ideal temperatures and the blooming peak of wildflowers.

Here’s a quick list of essentials for your hike: