Overview
Mount Sneffels (14,150 ft) dominates the skyline north of Ouray and south of Ridgway, and its standard summit route via Blue Lakes Pass is among the most visually spectacular 14er approaches in Colorado. Even before the trail reaches Blue Lakes Pass at 13,000 feet, it passes through the Blue Lakes basin, three glacial lakes surrounded by the dark, craggy walls of the Sneffels Range, that appears in more Colorado landscape photography than almost any other alpine setting.
The 8.5-mile round trip gains 3,100 feet from the Blue Lakes Trailhead to the summit, with roughly half of that gain in the final push from the basin to the top. The route above Blue Lakes Pass is Class 3-4 scrambling with some exposure, which separates it from easier Colorado 14ers. But the basin itself is the reward that makes this trail exceptional even for hikers who do not intend to reach the summit.
Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest administers the Mount Sneffels Wilderness through the Ouray Ranger District. The wilderness designation protects the immediate area around the peak and the basin below.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: Trailhead to Lower Blue Lake
The trail climbs from the trailhead through mixed forest and then open terrain toward the first of the Blue Lakes. The lower lake at approximately 11,600 feet is reached at about 2.5 miles. The first glimpse of the lake with the Sneffels Range reflected in the surface is one of the great views on any Colorado trail.
Miles 2.5 to 3.5: Blue Lakes Basin
The middle lakes (Upper Blue Lake) sit at roughly 11,750 feet in the cirque formed by Mount Sneffels to the west and the flanking ridges to north and south. The trail follows the lake chain upward toward the base of the pass. Many hikers stop here for a break or choose this as their turnaround. The basin is the photographic core of the route.
Miles 3.5 to 4.0: Blue Lakes Pass and Summit Approach
The trail climbs sharply from the upper lake to Blue Lakes Pass at approximately 13,000 feet. The pass itself offers full views of the basin below and the Dallas Divide to the north. From the pass, the summit route continues west on Class 3-4 terrain, loose rock, fixed cairns, steep gully sections. This portion requires solid footwear, experience on steep rock, and careful attention to rockfall from other climbers above.
Mile 4.25: Summit
The summit of Mount Sneffels (14,150 ft) offers 360-degree views including the Uncompahgre Plateau, the Cimarron Range, and on clear days the San Juan and Elk Mountains to the south and east.
When to Visit
July through September for reliable conditions. The basin typically clears of snow by late June, but the upper summit route can hold ice and snow into July. September often brings the most stable weather for the summit, though early snowfall is possible after mid-September.
Afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August are a significant risk on the exposed upper route. Plan to be below the pass by noon on days with any weather risk. Check mountain weather forecasts before departure.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 3 liters of water (with filter for basin refills)
- Helmet if attempting the summit (rockfall risk from other climbers)
- Waterproof shell and insulating layer
- Trekking poles (valuable for the basin approach; stow them before the scramble above the pass)
- High-traction footwear with ankle support
Consider bringing:
- Microspikes for early-season snow on the pass approach
- A headlamp for summit attempts requiring very early starts
Individual needs vary significantly based on fitness and experience.
Practical Details
Vault toilets at the Blue Lakes Trailhead. No facilities in the wilderness. Cell service absent throughout. Practice Leave No Trace principles, the basin is a high-traffic area and staying on established trails is critical to protecting the fragile tundra.
A free campfire permit is required for overnight trips. Camping restrictions may apply near the lakes; verify with the Ouray Ranger District. For context on bear safety and food storage in Colorado backcountry.
Getting There
From Ridgway, take CO-62 east toward Telluride for approximately 5 miles, then turn south on CR 7 (East Dallas Creek Road). Follow CR 7 approximately 5 miles to the Blue Lakes Trailhead. The road transitions from paved to gravel; high-clearance vehicles are recommended for the final section. From Ouray, take US-550 north to Ridgway and then follow the directions above.