Trail Description

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If time is short, the hike to Lost Lake provides a compact but satisfying Indian Peaks Wilderness experience. Aspen groves, wildflowers, streams, waterfalls and a tranquil lake setting with dramatic alpine backdrop highlight this family-friendly excursion. Upon arrival visitors will enjoy easy lake access along well-defined, circumnavigating social trails.

The trail begins on a steep dirt road lined with aspens and wildflowers, merging with the South Fork of Middle Boulder Creek at the King Lake - Devils Thumb Bypass Trail junction (.85 miles : 9,455'). Bear left over the creek toward Lost Lake. The trail closely follows the animated creek .25 miles to the Lost Lake Trail junction (1.1 miles : 9,582’).

A turbulent waterfall, invigorated by summer thaw, drops through a narrow chute just before reaching the turnoff. Short spurs lead to prime creek-side viewpoints, but their stability should not be overestimated – nor the creek’s swiftness underestimated; keep children at a safe distance.

The Lost Lake Trail turns sharply away from the creek, climbing steeply for .25 miles to the marshy western fringe of Lost Lake (1.35 miles : 9,786’). The main trail forks here into well-defined paths circling the wooded lakeshore. Arguably the best views and backdrops can be found along the east shore, though late afternoon arrivals may find lighting more favorable from the west. Respect the privacy of backcountry campsites while exploring the area.

GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84

• N39 57.100 W105 35.696 - 2WD Parking Area for Hessie Trailhead

• N39 57.278 W105 36.192 - Hessie Trailhead

• N39 57.330 W105 36.780 - King Lake-Devils Thumb Bypass Trail junction (.85 miles)

• N39 57.265 W105 37.000 - King Lake - Lost Lake Trail junction (1.1 miles)

• N39 57.072 W105 37.045 - Lost Lake

Worth Noting

• Lost Lake is a popular destination accessed by a heavily used trail artery. Get an early start to avoid peak-season congestion. Parking is limited and fills up very quickly on the weekends.



• Snow may linger on the trail well into summer.

Camping and Backpacking Information

• Permits are required for all overnight campers June 1 - September 15.



• Permits are required year-round for day and overnight use by large groups (8+) or organizational groups such as scouts, churches, schools and hiking clubs.



• Group size is limited to 12 people or people and packstock combined.



• Campfires are prohibited east side of the Continental Divide, as well as Caribou Lake, Columbine Lake, Gourd Lake, Crater Lake and in the Cascade Creek drainage above Cascade Falls.



• Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times.



• Camping is permitted only at designated campsites in the Diamond, Jasper, Crater and Caribou Lakes Backcountry Zones.



• Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone (Mitchell, Blue, Long, Isabelle) May 1 - Nov 30.



• Camping is prohibited within 100’ of lakes, streams and trails.



• Packstock are prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone, in the Cascade Backcountry Zone above Cascade Falls and on the Diamond Lake Trail #975.

Directions to Trailhead

Lost Lake is accessed from the Hessie Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland, Colorado.

From downtown Nederland, go south on Highway 72 for .5 miles to County Road 130 and make a right. You will see a sign for Eldora Ski Resort at this junction. Continue on Highway 130 through the town of Eldora, just past which it becomes a dirt road (4 miles). 2WD drive conditions end 4.8 miles from the Highway 72 turnoff. 4WD vehicles may veer left at this demarcation and continue another .5 miles to the trailhead. Others will have to park at one of the limited roadside spaces and walk the 4WD road to the Hessie Trailhead.

Contact Information

Boulder Ranger District
2140 Yarmouth Avenue
Boulder, CO 80301
Phone: 303-541-2500