Stout Creek Lakes

Managing agency

San Juan NF — Columbine RD (West)

Stout Creek Lakes is a 5.9-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the San Juan National Forest, managed by the Columbine Ranger District on the west side. This route gains 2,871 feet of elevation, making it a moderately strenuous hike suitable for those with solid fitness levels. The trail follows Stout Creek as it climbs toward the alpine lakes at its terminus. The significant elevation gain is distributed across the route, providing a steady ascent through varied terrain. At the turnaround point, hikers reach the Stout Creek Lakes, which offer mountain views and a rewarding destination after the climb. The out-and-back format means hikers retrace their route on the descent, totaling just under 12 miles round trip with the same elevation loss on the return. The San Juan National Forest setting provides typical high country scenery characteristic of southwestern Colorado's mountain landscape. This trail is best suited for hikers prepared for elevation gain and looking for a full day outing in the Columbine Ranger District area.