Are dogs allowed on American Lakes Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on American Lakes Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike American Lakes Trail?

No, American Lakes Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is American Lakes Trail?

American Lakes Trail is rated difficult. It is 6.8 miles long with 1,598 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Colorado trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

Routt National Forest/Colorado

American Lakes Trail

Walden, Colorado

6.8 mi

Distance

1,598 ft

Elev. Gain

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Alpine tundra, wildflowers, and Continental Divide views are paraphrased. The trail ends at American Lakes and can be continued over the pass into the national park. Fly and lure fishing is allowed. It was a great trip. Fires are not allowed above timberline. The trail is best used during the summer months.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:3,004 ft

Max:3,425 ft

487 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by United States Forest Service

Verify before you go

Managing agency

United States Forest Service
Find offices, alerts, and current orders for this agency.

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Address:CO

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the Colorado hunting page

Status unknown — verify before visiting

American Lakes Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

American Lakes Trail and Michigan Ditch Loop

Snow Lake via American Lakes Trail

Thunder Pass via American Lakes Trail

Lulu Mountain via American Lakes Trail

Lake Agnes via Michigan Ditch Trail

Lake Agnes Trail

Other trails in Routt National Forest

Fish Creek Falls Trail

Rabbit Ears Peak Trail

Mad Creek Trail

Uranium Mine Trail

Mount Zirkel Loop Trail

Lake Agnes Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Ranger Lakes Campground - State Forest State Park

Long Draw Campground

Chambers Lake Campground

South Fork Trailhead

North Michigan Campground

Barns Meadow Reservoir

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