take a hike
LOST LAKE
THREE LAKES LOOP TRAIL Words + Photos by Melanie Wiseman
H
58
igh in the lush Gunnison National Forest
vehicles, through romantic valleys, towering
lies a hidden treasure famous for its fall
peaks and alpine terrain.
foliage and magnificent views of the West Elk
Mountains. Three Lakes Loop Trail, commonly
of 33-mile-long Kebler Pass (County Road 12),
known simply as Lost Lake Trail, is nestled in
an intersection and signage direct travelers
what is purportedly one of the world’s largest
two miles to the Lost Lake Campground. Use
aspen groves. The aspen colony has been tested
the large parking area to the right of the
and found to grow from a single root system, and
campground where there are restrooms, water,
therefore is a single living organism.
and the west end trailhead. The trail begins at
The Three Lakes Loop Trail hiker is the
9,600-foot elevation, is well marked, has a good
beneficiary of this natural phenomenon, with
tread way and an average eight percent slope.
shimmering orange and gold views around
The trail is now yours. It can be done in 1.5
every bend. This stunning trail is well worth the
hours, or preferably at a leisurely pace allowing
trip to its remote location.
for countless photo opportunities and “wow”
moments.
Traveling to the trail is nearly as enchanting
At the midway point from either direction
as the trail itself. Enjoy poking around Crested
Starting at the west end trailhead will lead
Butte or Paonia — mountain towns with their
you in the popular counter clockwise direction
own unique personalities that bookend your
of this 3.5-mile moderate loop. Aspen start to
trip up Kebler Pass. Part of the West Elk Loop
appear as you hike the gentle ascent to Lost
National Scenic Byway, the pass is a windy, well
Lake, the first of the three scenic lakes you’ll
maintained dirt road with easy grades for all
encounter. There are plenty of spots to enjoy the
