Are dogs allowed on Columbine Lake Trail?

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

Do I need a permit to hike Columbine Lake Trail?

No, Columbine Lake 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 Columbine Lake Trail?

Columbine Lake Trail is rated expert. It is 8.3 miles long with 3,645 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

ExpertOut and Back

Colorado

Columbine Lake Trail

Silverton, Colorado

8.3 mi

Distance

3,645 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 14m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The first couplemiles are tough but once you start on the saddle, it is much easier. You must go through 16 turns to get to the end of the trees. The trail continues on a steep incline after you top out of the trees. The lake is in the same league as Ice Lake's coloring. It is worth the hike. The park is not big but it isn't fragile so it's good to leave the tent in the park. "You can access the lake through snowshoe throughout the year but you have to be careful in that area because of fires and slides in the winter." The Forest Service should inform you of snowshoeing before you head out for it.

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:3,047 ft

Max:3,871 ft

1,111 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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