Chicago Lakes Trail to Idaho Springs Reservoir
Be it a picnic lunch beside a lake, an afternoon fishing jaunt, or an alpine overnighter, the Chicago Lakes Trail can be enjoyed by hikers of all sizes and interests. Many hikers fish and picnic at the lakes, allowing plenty of time to investigate the shorelines' aquatic world. Hikers begin their walk on a level path through a spruce forest. The trail passes through sparsely vegetated undergrowth where foot traffic is not evident. Ask the kids to watch for trail markers or blazes on trees. In doing so they’ll notice “old man’s beard,” a gray-green hair-like growth hanging from tree branches. This lichen lives off dead matter on the tree but doesn’t harm it. Using the lichen as hair and bits of wood for the body, kids can make a gnome doll.
Driving Directions
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Directions to: Chicago Lakes Trail to Idaho Springs Reservoir
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Idaho Springs |
| Length | 3.4 mi |
| Skill Level | Moderate for children |
| Duration | Day hike |
| Season | Best June to October |
| Trailhead Elevation | 10,600 ft |
| Top Elevation | 10,800 ft |
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