Crater Lake

6.0 mi

Distance

211 ft

Gain

No verdict for this trail

We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.

What we do know

Inside San Juan National Forest
3 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data

What's missing

No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.

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Why you'll love it

Out & back

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Crater Lake

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Elevation & route

Distance: 6.0 mi
Elevation gain: 211 ft

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Photos

Directions & GPX

Get Directions to Trailhead Parking

Permits & access

Managing agency: Rio Grande NF — Saguache RD

About this trail

Crater Lake is a 5.7-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the town of Colorado, within Rio Grande National Forest under the management of the Saguache Ranger District. The route features modest elevation gain of 211 feet, making it accessible to hikers of varying experience levels. The trail takes you to Crater Lake, a destination worth the relatively easy climb. With just over 5 miles of hiking to reach the lake and back, this is an ideal choice for a half-day adventure. The gentle elevation profile means you can focus on enjoying the surrounding landscape rather than managing steep grades. Rio Grande National Forest offers diverse terrain and scenic views across its 1.8 million acres in south-central Colorado. As an out-and-back route, you'll retrace the same path on your return, allowing you to move at your own pace without worrying about trail logistics. For current trail conditions, regulations, and specific access information, contact the Saguache Ranger District directly.