Are dogs allowed on Gore Lake?

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

Do I need a permit to hike Gore Lake?

No, Gore 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 Gore Lake?

Gore Lake is rated expert. It is 12.5 miles long with 3,579 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.

Is Gore Lake suitable for kids?

Gore 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

ExpertOut and Back

Colorado

Gore Lake

Vail, Colorado

12.5 mi

Distance

3,579 ft

Elev. Gain

5h 37m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Wilderness regulations exist and are posted at the trailhead. Hunters may be in this area during hunting season. Be aware that this trail is neither marked nor maintained for winter use, and it crosses several avalanche paths. Campfires are prohibited at Gore Lake because of a lack of dead/downed timber, and to protect the sensitive alpine vegetation. Mountain goats are prevalent at Gore Lake. Please keep your distance, keep your pets leashed, and do not approach or feed them. From the trailhead you rise in elevation pretty quick, so be ready to start with a climb. After about a mile you get to a more moderate incline all the way to "the graves" which is around 4 miles total. You are in and out of the trees that first 4 miles with good views. Once you get to the graves you follow the signs and take a hard left towards Gore Lake. The next 1.8 miles are steep. This section is why this trail has a hard rating. Keep pushing and get to the lake! It's worth 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:2,663 ft

Max:3,480 ft

1,091 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

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.

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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