wildernet

Conejos Peak Ranger District

Quick Facts

Big Lake Trail

Beginning Elevation:	8,880 Feet (2768.1 Meters)
Difficulty:	More Difficult
Elevation Gain:	1,160 Feet (361.6 Meters)
Ending Elevation:	10,040 Feet (3129.7 Meters) Ends at Big Lake
Length, One-way:	2.1 Miles (3.5 Kilometers)
Trail Number:	706
Usage:	Moderate
USGS Maps:	Jasper, Red Mountain
Vehicle Accessibility:	Multiple use

		Satellite and Topo Map

General Description

This trail offers a pleasant 4.2 mile round trip hike. The trail is recommended for the more experienced hiker. The trail is in fair condition.

There is little outstanding scenery along the trail, but it is a pleasant experience, with many wildflowers during the summer.

Big Lake does not support a fish population, but is used by migratory water fowl during the year.

Cross-country skiing has taken place on this trail, but due to the narrow, forested, and winding condition of the trail, it should only be attempted by experienced skiers.

Water is not available along the trail.

Directions from Monte Vista, Colorado: Proceed south on the Gunbarrel Road, State Road 15, for 12.0 miles. Turn west onto Forest Road # 250 for 15.0 miles. Turn south onto the Silver Lakes Toll Road #260 for 1.0 mile to trailhead.

Directions from Monte Vista, Colorado: From the Gunbarrel Road, take the La Jara Reservoir Road #250 to La Jara Reservoir. From La Jara Reservoir, proceed north for 6.0 miles to Big Lake.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Open: May through Late October .

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

Typical spring conditions indicate you should expect snow above 10,000 feet. Updated: 2000-05-09 10:36:00.0

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Recreation Opportunities

Activity		Remarks	On Site
	Backpacking	Suitable sites along the trail	Yes
	Cross-country Skiing	Experienced skiers only	Yes
	Cold Water Fishing	Big Lake does not support a fish population.	Yes
	Hiking & Walking	Big Lake Trail	Yes
	Horseback Riding	Trail is in fair condition	Yes
	Mountain Biking	Trail is in fair condition	Yes
	Motorcycle Riding	Trail is in fair condition	Yes
	ATV Riding	Trail is in fair condition.	Yes

Related Activities

Alamosa Campground - Alamosa Campground is on the Alamosa River 4 1/2 miles above Terrace Reservoir Dam. There is public fishing at Terrace Reservoir and trail access to Alamosa-Rock Creek and Big Lake Trails.

Stunner Campground - Stunner Campground is beside the Alamosa River 2 miles below the top of Stunner Pass. There is public access to fishing in the Alamosa River. Stunner is a ghost town of historic significance.