Lake of the Clouds

Managing agency

San Juan NF — Gunnison RD

Lake of the Clouds is an 8.6-mile out-and-back trail in the Gunnison Ranger District of San Juan National Forest near Colorado. The route gains 2,037 feet of elevation, making it a moderately challenging day hike suited for hikers with solid fitness levels. The trail takes you through San Juan National Forest terrain, traversing alpine and subalpine environments as elevation increases. The destination—Lake of the Clouds—sits at high elevation where mountain views and the alpine lake setting reward the steady climb. With nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain spread across 8.6 miles, the grades are manageable but consistent. The out-and-back format means 17.2 miles total distance with return elevation loss matching the ascent. Best conditions typically occur from mid-summer through early fall once snow clears from higher elevations. The trail is managed by the Gunnison Ranger District, part of the larger San Juan National Forest protection area. This hike works well as a full-day outing for those seeking a mountain lake destination with real elevation gain and high country scenery in Colorado's San Juan Mountains.