Are dogs allowed on South Zapata Lake Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on South Zapata 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 South Zapata Lake Trail?

No, South Zapata 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 South Zapata Lake Trail?

South Zapata Lake Trail is rated expert. It is 9.7 miles long with 4,236 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

South Zapata Lake Trail

Mosca, Colorado

9.7 mi

Distance

4,236 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 50m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The best rewards of this hike are the miners cabins, hidden waterfall and high edge lake. It should be noted that the Zapata Falls are in a forested area less than 1.5 miles from the trailhead. It's less than a mile from Aibilia Falls to the cabins. Next is a hilltop lake above the tree line.

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:2,764 ft

Max:3,624 ft

1,291 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.

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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