Lake Hope 
Distance: 4.5 - 5.9 miles (round trip)
Uncompahgre National Forest, near Telluride in Southwest Colorado
View of Lake Hope
This popular hike to a high alpine lake surround by 13,000-ft. peaks offers panoramic views of the Wilson Range and the high peaks in the Lizard Head Wilderness along the way.
See Trail Detail/Full Description
- Distance: 4.5 miles (round trip) to Lake Hope
5.9 miles (round trip) to Unnamed Pass above Lake Hope - Elevation: 10,750-ft. at Trailhead
11,880-ft. at Lake Hope
12,445-ft. at Unnamed Pass above Lake Hope - Elevation Gain: 1,130-ft. to Lake Hope
1,695-ft. to Unnamed Pass above Lake Hope - Difficulty: moderate
- More Hikes in:
Telluride / Southwest Colorado
Why Hike Lake Hope
The red, rust and purplish-gray colors of Vermilion Peak form the backdrop for brilliant green meadows filled with spectacular displays of wildflowers. In the distance to the west the fourteeners of the Wilson Range and the distinctive spire of Lizard Head Peak fill the skyline. Views, both near and far, are the reason to hike to Lake Hope and the unnamed pass above this pretty glacial lake.
This moderately-easy hike is deservedly popular, so you won’t be alone. Get an early start and pick a weekday to avoid the crowds. You won’t be sorry.
Elevation Profile
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Trail Resources
Trail Detail/Full Description / Trail Photo Gallery / Trail Map
Basecamp(s) Information:
Telluride
Region Information:
Southwest Colorado
Other Hiking Regions in:
Colorado