St Louis Lake

Managing agency

Forest Service

St Louis Lake is a 5.9-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the town of Colorado, managed by the White River National Forest Aspen-Sopris Ranger District. This moderate day hike takes visitors through scenic terrain typical of the Aspen area, culminating at a mountain lake nestled in the high country. The out-and-back format means hikers will cover approximately 11.8 miles round trip. The trail offers a straightforward route that's well-suited for those seeking a substantial day outing without requiring backcountry navigation skills. As part of the White River National Forest system, the trail passes through protected public lands with diverse ecosystems. The destination lake provides a natural turnaround point and makes for an ideal lunch spot or rest area. This hike is best attempted during summer and early fall months when snow melt clears the high-elevation terrain. Check with the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District for current trail conditions and any seasonal closures before your visit.