Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest
Chicago Lakes Trail #52

The Chicago Lakes Trail is about 4 miles long and is rated as More Difficult.

Elevations:

• Trailhead: 10,600'
• Destination: 11,800'

Trailhead Location: The trail starts behind the Echo Lake Lodge at the junction of Hwys 103 and 5. There are several social trails in the area, just choose the one that heads southwest. This trail can also be easily accessed by the Denver Mountain Parks picnic area and scenic path around Echo Lake.

The trail goes downhill for the first mile after leaving Echo Lake. Here, Chicago Creek is dammed to form the Idaho Springs Reservoir. This will be the easy part of the hike because the trail then climbs upward for the remaining three miles. You will pass through an old burn area where in 1978, 400 acres were charred in the Reservoir Fire. Lots of wildflowers stand out against the burned trees. Heading back into the trees, the first Chicago Lake is right at treeline. The trail to the second lake, above treeline, is difficult to follow at times and is very steep. Both lakes offer excellent views of surrounding peaks.

Be aware of quickly advancing summer lightning storms.