Overview
Big Creek Lakes sit near the Wyoming border in the northern portion of the Routt unit of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, in Jackson County, Colorado. The two main lakes are accessible by a loop trail that circles both bodies of water through open subalpine forest with views toward the Park Range to the west. The lakes sit just below 8,900 feet, a modest elevation compared to the high Park Range to the south, which keeps the area accessible earlier in the season and makes it more welcoming for hikers who prefer to avoid extreme altitude.
The surrounding terrain is a mix of lodgepole pine and Engelmann spruce typical of the northern Routt unit, with meadow openings near the lake shores that are particularly pleasant in morning light. Big Creek flows out of the lower lake, and the sound of moving water carries along much of the loop.
The adjacent campground makes this an excellent base for fishing or hiking the northern Routt unit. The campground has several sites close enough to the lake that early-morning fishing is practical before other day-use visitors arrive.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 0.5: Recreation Area to Lower Lake
The trail departs the recreation area and reaches the lower lake shore within the first half mile. The path is wide and well-maintained, crossing through a small stand of mature spruce before opening to the lake edge. The lower lake is the larger of the two and tends to hold the most fishing activity.
Miles 0.5 to 2.5: Lower and Upper Lake Circuit
The loop circles both lakes on a well-maintained path through lodgepole and subalpine forest. The connection between the two lakes crosses a short marshy section on a maintained tread that can be muddy in early summer. The upper lake sits slightly higher, tucked closer to the timber, and offers views of the surrounding ridge. Wildlife, including mule deer and the occasional moose, is most commonly spotted in the meadow sections between the two lakes during early morning and late afternoon.
Miles 2.5 to 4.0: Return to Recreation Area
The loop closes back at the trailhead on the west side of the lower lake, returning through a more open forest section with partial views toward the Park Range. This stretch is the most pleasant in late afternoon light.
When to Hike
June through October the recreation area is accessible. The access road typically opens by early June once snowmelt allows grading.
July through August for wildflowers and the best fishing conditions. Fireweed and paintbrush bloom along the meadow edges through mid-August. Fishing tends to be most productive early and late in the day.
September for fall color and quiet after the summer crowds. Aspen stands near the access road turn gold by mid-September. The campground and day-use area thin out considerably after Labor Day, making this a quieter time to explore the lake shores.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. Water is available at the recreation area at the flush toilet facilities. Fishing tackle and a Colorado fishing license are needed if planning to fish (as of 2026). Insect repellent is helpful in July when mosquitoes are most active near the lake shores. Sunscreen is worth carrying even on overcast days at this elevation.
Trailhead Access
Big Creek Lakes Recreation Area off CR-600 near Cowdrey, Jackson County. The access road is gravel after the first few miles; most passenger vehicles handle it without difficulty in summer conditions. No fee to hike (as of 2026). Campground fee applies for overnight stays. Flush toilets and water at the recreation area during the summer operating season. Cell service is essentially absent in this area; download maps and campground information before leaving Walden or Steamboat Springs.
Nearby
Hahns Peak Summit Trail is in the same northern Routt area and provides a summit objective for those wanting more elevation gain. Rawah Wilderness Lakes Loop is nearby for those wanting a wilderness backpacking experience with more remote lake country.
Check conditions and campground availability at checking conditions before you go. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout, particularly near the lake shores where concentrated use requires staying on established paths.