This was the best part of our trip hands down. The hike was easy as my 8 month pregnant wife (her idea) was able to do it with no problems. The views were amazing, weather was perfect, and best part there were no tourists. We got there at 6:30 and then hiked up the mountain to the lake. We came... More

I am from the Midwest and am not used to the altitude. It took my family longer to walk this hike than most Colorado natives, but the hike was breathtaking. It is very rocky, wear good sturdy shoes. We had water and snacks with us which was a huge benefit. We took our time and loved every minute. Snow on... More

We had to trudge through a lot of knee deep snow to get to crater lake, but the views along the way and at the lake were awesome!

Made the trail with my boys (5 and 7) and we all enjoyed it a lot. Path is easy to follow, most of it inside aspen forest. It is uphill most of the way, but there were not any streneous parts or anything, highly recommeded for everyone.

Relatively easy trail. View is spectacular. The aspen inthe fall is breathtaking. Somewhat crowded during the weekend.

We hiked this trail in September 2012; the aspens were at their peak. The trail was beautiful. However, Crater Lake was not much more than a puddle, which was a bit of a disappointment. But, the color in the aspens made up for the lack of water. We had initially looked at continuing on to the more strenous hike to... More

We took this hike just as the aspens were starting to turn. It was a gorgeous warm day and though we hadn't intended to do this hike (we started from Maroon Lake Trail) and weren't properly provisioned we still had a wonderful time. Saw deer slipping down trails of their own, got chattered at by squirrels, and saw trout in... More

Just hiked here 9-17-12 and it was absolutely gorgeous with the golden aspen and light dusting of snow on the Maroon Bells! Great hike to the lake although it was nearly empty this time of the year.

We walked around Maroon Lake, then did the hike up to Crater Lake. It is mostly "up" and that being said you will get some good views of Maroon Lake, etc. Much of the hike is rock, little to medium size, and tree roots exposed. Be careful if hiking in damp weather like we did. Can be slippery when stepped... More