Rocky Mountain National Park's Crystal Lake Trail

Crystal Lake Trail

Description:
The Crystal Lake Trail leaves Lawn Lake at an elevation of 11,028 feet and climbs the ridge to the north before descending to Crystal Lake at 11,580 feet. It makes a total elevation change (gain + loss) of 813 feet in 1.45 miles. The trail leaves Lawn Lake just past the horse hitch rack and travels northwest above the east shore of the lake. It makes a gentle to moderate climb up through some wet meadows and scattered spruce. The trail is fairly level as it passes around the north end of Lawn Lake. It crosses a wet meadow through some willows. It can be muddy in spots. You get some great views of Lawn Lake and the valley as it makes a moderate to steep climb over numerous switchbacks.

The trail turns west at its intersection with the Saddle Trail and descends around some rocks to Little Crystal Lake. From here it travels along the shore of the lake through the rocks to the south end of Crystal Lake. These lakes are very beautiful and well worth the climb. Horses are not permitted on this trail. You must leave them at the hitch rack and hike to Crystal Lake.

Features:

Length:	1.45 miles (2.35 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	11,028' - 11,672'
Elevation change:	813 feet
Season:	Jun 15 - Oct 1
Difficulty:	Moderate
Use:	Low
USGS maps:	Trail Ridge
Trailheads:	Lawn Lake
Restrictions:	No pets are permitted
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted)
Suitable for horses:	No

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
The nearest trailhead to this trail is the Lawn Lake Trailhead. Take Highway 34 north from the Fall River Entrance to the Endovalley turnoff. The trailhead is immediately on the right. Parking for horse trailers is a little farther on the left. The trailhead has room for about 40 vehicles with restrooms on site. Take the Lawn Lake Trail for 6.1 miles to the beginning of the Crystal Lake Trail.

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