Grizzly Lake
The great bear that once roamed these mountains is remembered by this high lake and a former fourteener. There are many lakes, creeks and mountains in Colorado named for the great bear. In fact, early accounts are full of chance meetings between grizzlies and the first explorers, including on the summits of fourteeners (most often with a bad ending for the bear.) Rugged Grizzly Peak, rising above the lake, was originally surveyed as above 14,000'; a popular target for early climbers of the fourteeners. Later downgraded to its present height of 13,988' and then forgotten, it is seeing climbing interest again as a "Centennial Peak" (100 highest in the state.) This off-the-beaten-path hike near Aspen passes up a lovely valley to a high lake beneath Grizzly Peak and the Continental Divide. A good late season hike, the lake remains frozen up until mid summer at this altitude.
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Directions to: Grizzly Lake
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Aspen |
| Length | 7.6 mi |
| Elevation Gain | 2,058 ft |
| Skill Level | Moderate |
| Duration | 112 minutes up, 96 minutes down |
| Season | Early July to early October |
| Trailhead Elevation | 10,570 ft |
| Top Elevation | 12,520 ft |
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