Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Mesa Lakes, Colorado
Mesa Lakes sits in the Grand Mesa National Forest at an elevation that keeps summers cool and winters genuinely snowy, making it a legitimate four-season hiking destination if you plan around the conditions. The trail options here are short but purposeful.
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Mesa Lakes sits in the Grand Mesa National Forest at an elevation that keeps summers cool and winters genuinely snowy, making it a legitimate four-season hiking destination if you plan around the conditions. The trail options here are short but purposeful. The Mesa Lake Shore Trail wraps around the lake itself and works well for anyone who wants to stretch their legs without committing to a long day, including families with younger kids or hikers who just rolled in from a long drive. The West Bench Trail offers a bit more terrain and a different vantage point on the mesa, and it shows up in the listings twice because it can be accessed from more than one starting point. Neither trail is going to challenge experienced hikers looking for a big elevation push, but that's not really the point here. Mesa Lakes rewards people who want quiet water, dense spruce-fir forest, and a pace that lets you actually look around. The area can see afternoon thunderstorms in July and August, which is worth building into your timing if you're planning a summer visit.
Frequently asked questions
What trails are available for hiking at Mesa Lakes?
There are two main trails in the area: the Mesa Lake Shore Trail, which follows the perimeter of the lake, and the West Bench Trail, which runs along the bench above the lake and can be accessed from multiple points. Both are relatively short and manageable for most fitness levels.
What skill level do you need to hike at Mesa Lakes?
Both the Mesa Lake Shore Trail and the West Bench Trail are suitable for beginners and casual hikers. The terrain is not technical, though the elevation on the Grand Mesa means you may feel the altitude if you're coming from lower ground, so take it easy on the first day if you're not acclimated.
When is the best time of day to hike at Mesa Lakes?
Morning is the best window, especially in summer. The Grand Mesa gets afternoon thunderstorms regularly from mid-July through August, and being on an exposed bench or near open water when lightning rolls in is not a situation you want. Starting by 7 or 8 a.m. gives you plenty of time to finish before weather builds.
What gear should I bring for hiking at Mesa Lakes?
Even in summer, pack a rain layer and something warm since temperatures on the mesa drop quickly when clouds move in. Waterproof boots are worth it if you're visiting in spring or early summer when trails near the lake can be muddy. Bring water and sunscreen regardless of season, as the elevation increases UV exposure.
When does the Mesa Lakes area become accessible for hiking?
The Grand Mesa holds snow well into spring, and the road to Mesa Lakes can remain snowy or muddy through May depending on the year. Late June through early October is the most reliable window for clear trail conditions. Winter hiking is possible with snowshoes, but check road conditions before you go since access can be limited.
