Hardscrabble and Williams Lakes Trail

Lake City, CO

Content provider

Hardscrabble and Williams Lakes Trail

The jostling ride to the trailhead is worthwhile just for the scenery. The hike itself offers a closer look at the north side of the Elk Range and of Capitol Peak (14,130 feet), one of the hardest to climb and most beautiful of the Fourteeners. This trip to two lakes also gets you to water, a treat for your canine companion while you ogle the scenery. Do bring mosquito repellent, and leash laws apply because you will be hiking in the Maroon Bells to Snowmass Wilderness Area.

See all Hiking in Colorado

Driving Directions

Note: driving directions are approximate.

We cannot find this location: please try again.

Directions to: Hardscrabble and Williams Lakes Trail

print directions

Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityLake City
Length4 mi
Elevation Gain1,300 ft
Duration4 hours
SeasonBest July to August
Trailhead Elevation9,800 ft
Top Elevation10,815 ft
screen shot of Trails.com

REI MEMBERS: SAVE $20 on a Trails.com Subscription

Subscribe to Trails.com for just $29.95 a year and gain full access to over 49,000 professional trail guides, high-res USGS topo maps & much more!

Content provided by Trails.com

How are we doing? Give us feedback on this page.

REI Anniversary Sale May 17–27. Plus, members SAVE 20% on 1 full-price item with coupon code ANNV13. Details

  • Join REI today!
  • REI Membership
  • REI member benefits include an annual refund (typically 10% on eligible purchases).
  • Join REI today!
  • Sign up for REI Gearmail®
  • and get 15% off selected items!
  • Store Locator
  • Locate an REI store near you.
  • Find a Store

Find REI on: FacebookTwitterYouTubeFlickr