Gray’s Lake is a scenic summer and fall hike near Keystone, Colorado. The trail combines mining history, mountain streams, colorful wildflowers, and a peaceful alpine lake.
My friend Mindy and I hiked it during peak wildflower season with the hillsides bursting with color. This trail would is also beautiful when autumn paints the tundra in shades of gold, copper, and rust.
Hiking Through Colorado Mining History
We started hiking at 8:10 a.m. Mining relics sit near the trailhead, offering an early glimpse into the area’s past.
The route follows rocky Upper Peru Creek Road, also known as Forest Road 260. About ten minutes into our hike, there’s a short detour worth taking for a view from a small bridge over the stream. The right fork leads toward Argentine Pass. We stayed left for Gray’s Lake.
The trail passes through the historic Shoe Basin Mine area. Rusted remnants of mining operations dot the landscape. Streams flowing through mineral-rich terrain also create unusual colors in the water.
There are several trail splits along the route. One junction is especially confusing, but stay left on the old road. Downloading an offline All Trails map is helpful because signs are limited.
Wildflowers Galore
After a fairly gentle beginning, the road quickly climbs again. You pass another old mine shaft on the left.
Of course, the steepest stretch is also the most beautiful with wildflowers lining both sides of the trail and covering the surrounding slopes. It’s one of those Colorado scenes that makes you forget, at least briefly, that you are hiking uphill. We even spotted a marmot.
The trail eventually leveled near several small ponds and water crossings. From there, you cross a lush green meadow before making the final approach to Gray’s Lake.
We reached the lake at 10:22 a.m. The alpine basin felt wonderfully secluded, with rugged peaks rising around the water. After enjoying the view, we started back down at 10:54 a.m. Winds were increasing, reminding us why an early start is always wise in Colorado’s high country. The hike down was equally stunning.
What to Know Before Hiking Gray’s Lake
The Gray’s Lake Trail is a 4.6-mile out-and-back hike with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain. It is considered moderately challenging.
The exposed route has little shade, so bring sun protection and plenty of water. Water in the lake and nearby streams may contain runoff from old mines. People and pets should not drink it.
The trail is popular from June through October. Summer brings wildflowers, while fall adds rich autumnal hues to the landscape. If you are staying at Kindred Resort or somewhere else in nearby Keystone, Silverthorne or even Frisco, Gray’s Lake is a wonderful half-day hiking adventure with scenery and history in equal measure. It’s also an easy drive from Denver for a wonderful day trip from the Front Range, especially if you add a post hike lunch in Keystone.
