The 7.2-Mile Chihuahua Lake Trail Might Just Be The Most Enchanting Hike In Colorado
By Christy Articola
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Published August 30, 2023
Do you want to go on a hike that is challenging, spectacular, and enchanting? Are you looking for a Colorado hike that will blow your mind and that will stay with you for years to come? If so, you’re going to love this 7.2-mile hike to Chihuahua Lake near Dillon, Colorado . This hike is magical and exceptional in every way.
The Chihuahua Lake Trail near Dillon is calling your name! The trailhead is just off I-70 near Dillon. It's less than two hours from Denver!
You'll start your journey from the Chihuahua Gulch Trailhead. You can reach it from either the exit for Loveland or the exit for Dillon.
If you get off at Loveland, you'll go past A-Basin and hang a left just before Keystone onto Montezuma Road. Then take that a few miles to the trailhead. If you're coming through Dillon, head toward Keystone, and take a right onto Montezuma Road to get to the trailhead.
Now, when you get there - you can hike from the Chihuahua Gulch Trailhead to the beginning of the Chihuahua Trail, but it will add two more miles each way. Some people drive to the actual Chihuahua Trail trailhead, but you will need a high clearance, 4WD vehicle to do that. Don't try it in a regular car.
Once you get to the Chihuahua Trail trailhead, though, get ready for a really good time! As soon as you start hiking this trail, you'll be amazed at the beauty that you see all around you.
You can see Torrey and Grays Peak in the distance from many places on the trail. They're both 14ers!
This area is filled with high peaks and breathtaking vistas.
In the spring and summer, you'll see lots of wildflowers along the way.
I mean, lots of wildflowers.
I said... lots and lots and lots of wildflowers.
And maybe some mushrooms, too!
In the autumn, the fall foliage along this trail really pops!
No matter what time of year you go, you can expect to tackle 1,879 feet of elevation gain on the way up, and then descend the same amount on the way back. It's an out-and-back trail.
This trail follows a stream pretty much all the way to the top.
When you get to Chihuahua Lake, the hard work you did to get there will all be worth it.
This alpine lake is clear and beautiful.
You'll be almost at 13,000 feet when you get there, so don't be surprised if you encounter some snow, even in the summertime.
Dogs are welcome on this trail - even chihuahuas! Their little legs may get tired, though, so be prepared to carry them some of the way.
You'll always remember your hike to Chihuahua Lake!
The trail to Chihuahua Lake near Dillon, Colorado is one of dozens if not hundreds of incredible, amazing, unforgettable trails in Colorado – but it’s one that is even more special than most. Plan a hike on it today – you’re going to love it!
To make sure you don’t forget anything when you pack for your adventure, check out our list of The Ultimate Hiking Packing List: 75 Must-Have Hiking Accessories!
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Chihuahua Lake, Dillon, CO 80435, USA