Herman Lake

Bakerville, CO

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Herman Lake

By late June, this high valley becomes resplendent with many varieties of exquisite, colorful flowers. By late June, the higher valleys become resplendent with many varieties of exquisite, colorful flowers. Herman Gulch trailhead, less than an hour from Denver, is an excellent place to enjoy flowers, camp or have a family backpack picnic. The initial part of this hike is a bit steep, as is the last section before reaching Herman Lake. You never need to use your hands for balance, with several easy creek crossings. Be sure to bring a flower guide, hand lens and a macro lens for your camera. At each creek crossing there are colorful water-loving plants such as Parrys primrose and queens crown. Once at the above-treeline lake, explore the tundra closely on your hands and knees. Tiny, yellow alpine avens dot the landscape in uncountable numbers.

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Directions to: Herman Lake

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityBakerville
Length7.4 mi
Elevation Gain2,116 ft
Skill LevelModerate
Duration105 minutes up, 80 minutes down
SeasonEarly June to early October
Trailhead Elevation10,280 ft
Top Elevation12,026 ft
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