Embarking on a hiking adventure in the James Peak Wilderness, specifically the Crater Lakes area, is a nature lover's dream. This region, nestled in the Denver metro area, boasts a remarkable array of pristine lakes and trails, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The James Peak Wilderness, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, safeguards 15 lakes and over 20 miles of untouched backcountry trails, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and a challenging hike.
The Crater Lakes area, in particular, captivates hikers with its five lakes, three lower and two higher, all situated just below the Continental Divide. The journey begins at the East Portal of the Moffat Tunnel, a railroad tunnel that serves as the trailhead. While the parking lot is spacious, it can get crowded on summer weekends, so arriving early is advisable. It's worth noting that parking illegally will result in a ticket, and the trailhead facilities include bathrooms, though hikers might want to bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer due to the popularity of the area.
The hiking trail, known as South Boulder Creek Trail No. 900, starts at the west end of the parking lot. A short walk to the right of the signboard leads hikers to the trailhead. Within a tenth of a mile, a trail split presents hikers with a choice: the real trail goes up to the right in the trees, while an old road goes to the left. Opting for the forest trail is a wise choice, as it offers a more scenic route. As hikers progress, they'll encounter a sign with mileage markers, indicating the distances to various landmarks, though these numbers are considered outdated.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the hike is the sound of the nearby creek, occasionally interrupted by the loud, high-powered electrical fans used to clear diesel exhaust after trains pass through the 6.2-mile tunnel. This tunnel has been in operation for nearly a century, and hikers might also stumble upon a cabin and metal remnants along the trail, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the experience.
After 1.3 miles, hikers will reach the Forest Lakes junction, marked by a large meadow filled with wildflowers and the remnants of another cabin or two. The Crater Lakes Trail continues from here, crossing the meadow and re-entering the forest before climbing uphill. It's a 0.75-mile trek to the Crater Lakes turnoff, where hikers should be vigilant to spot the sign, as it's easy to miss.
The Crater Lakes Trail presents a challenging yet rewarding experience, with steep sections and numerous downed trees cleared by crews. As hikers ascend, they'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the lakes. The trail eventually mellows out, and hikers will catch their first glimpse of the lakes, with the Lower South Crater Lake appearing on the left and the Lower North Crater Lake on the right. The trees part to reveal both lakes, creating a picturesque scene.
Hikers can choose to stop at either lake or both, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the colorful wildflowers that dot the meadow between the two lakes. For those eager to explore further, there are two options to reach the upper lakes. The COTREX app suggests continuing straight ahead and up a steep, rocky hillside, while the AllTrails map recommends a more scenic route around the northwest side of the Lower North Lake, leading to a waterfall that marks the outflow of the upper lakes.
The upper lakes require some rock scrambling and are accessible via two options. Additionally, there's a lower lake off the main trail, which hikers can locate with the help of a map. The hike to the two main lower lakes covers approximately 6.5 miles with a 1,400-foot elevation gain, while the upper lakes adventure adds more mileage and an additional 400-plus feet of elevation gain.
In conclusion, the James Peak Wilderness, particularly the Crater Lakes area, offers a captivating hiking experience that combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and a challenging trail. With its diverse landscapes and the opportunity to explore both lower and upper lakes, this wilderness area is a must-visit destination for hikers seeking an unforgettable adventure in the Denver metro region.
