East Portal Trailhead: Arapaho Lakes, Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Colorado
East Portal Trailhead: Arapaho Lakes
Indian Peaks Wilderness Area
Arapaho Lakes are located 3.65 miles from the East Portal Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This plurality is subjective, as the two main lakes are separated by only a thin band of sedge and talus, making it possible to view, explore and even fish both simultaneously. Terrestrial and navigational challenges keep crowds to a minimum, making this an ideal choice for equipped hikers during peak summer months.
| Related Trails: | Arapaho Lakes |
Looking northeast across both Arapaho Lakes
The northeastern outlet of Arapaho Lake
Nearing treeline along an unmaintaned trail segment in the upper valley
'Lower' Arapaho Lake
Skirting the southern edge of the first Arapaho Lake leads a second, adjacent lake
Resting flush against each other and the Continental Divide, only a thin band of talus separates the 'upper' and 'lower' Arapaho Lakes
Climb the hill on its eastern edge for excellent views of the lake
Skirting the eastern end of Arapaho Lake
The surrounding alpine is rife with summer wildflowers
Prolific summer wildflowers line much of the way to Arapaho Lakes
Even with a better vantage, the second Arapaho Lake is barely visible over the near horizon
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