Are dogs allowed on Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake?

No, Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake 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 Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake?

Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake is rated difficult. It is 9.3 miles long with 2,461 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.

What is the best season to hike Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake?

Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake is best hiked in summer and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake suitable for kids?

Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

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

Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake route map

DifficultOut and Back

Arapaho National Forest/Colorado

Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake

Grand Lake, Colorado

9.3 mi

Distance

2,461 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 3m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Blue Ridge Trail to Bowen Lake offers a challenging 9.3-mile out-and-back hike in Arapaho National Forest near Grand Lake, Colorado. The trail's elevation ranges from 3,175 meters to a maximum of 3,516 meters, with a significant total elevation gain of 750 meters (2,461 feet). Hikers can expect a dirt surface that traverses through rugged alpine terrain, likely offering scenic views typical of the Rocky Mountains region.

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.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gainhigh altitude

Elevation Profile

Min:3,175 ft

Max:3,516 ft

750 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by United States Forest Service

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Managing agency

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

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Address:CO

Best Seasons

Summer Fall

Highlights

alpine settingmountain views

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