Overview
Summitville sits at 11,000 feet in the southern Rio Grande National Forest, a high mining district that produced significant amounts of gold and silver in the late 1800s and left an environmental legacy that continues to shape the area today. The trail from the Summitville trailhead to the alpine lake at 11,800 feet passes through the ruins of the mining district before climbing to terrain that has nothing to do with industry, open tundra, rocky ridges, and a clear lake reflecting the surrounding peaks.
The 6-mile out-and-back gains 1,200 feet, placing it in the moderate category. The starting elevation (approximately 11,000 ft) means the thin air affects the effort level for visitors arriving from lower elevations, but the grade itself is manageable. The historical context of the route adds a dimension that purely natural trails don't provide.
Two important notes: visitors should follow all posted signs regarding restricted areas near the Superfund remediation zone, and water from streams in the immediate mine area should not be consumed without checking current guidance from the Divide Ranger District. The lake at the route's end is the standard destination, separate from the most actively remediated zones. Rio Grande National Forest provides details on current access conditions through the ranger district offices.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: Summitville Mining District
The trail begins at the trailhead parking area and passes through the historic mining district. Ruined foundations, tailings piles, and equipment remnants are visible along the route. Posted signs indicate restricted areas; follow them. The trail is clear and well-signed through this section. The terrain is open tundra and mining waste, with views to the Continental Divide to the south.
Miles 1.5 to 3.0: Upper Approach and Lake
Above the mining district, the trail enters more natural terrain and climbs steadily toward the lake. The vegetation shifts from disturbed mining ground to open tundra and rocky slopes. The lake appears at approximately mile 3, set in a shallow basin below the Continental Divide ridgeline. On clear days, the divide ridgeline is visible to the south.
When to Visit
July through September. The access road typically opens in late June. September is the preferred month, stable weather, fall color in the aspens lower in the forest, and reduced afternoon thunderstorm risk.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. The exposed tundra of the upper route provides no shelter. Plan to begin descent by early afternoon on days with unstable weather. Check conditions before departure.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 liters of water from a clean source (note water quality considerations specific to this area)
- Insulating layer for the high-elevation, often windy conditions
- Sun protection
Consider bringing:
- A print map of the area showing the specific restricted zones near the mine
- Trekking poles for the rocky upper approach
Practical Details
No restroom facilities. Cell service absent. Free parking. Do not consume water from any source in the immediate mining area without specific guidance from the ranger district. Practice Leave No Trace principles. Do not disturb or remove any mining artifacts or remnants.
Getting There
From Del Norte on US-160, take CO-112 west approximately 20 miles, then turn south on Forest Road 330 toward Summitville. The road is rough gravel and long; high-clearance strongly recommended. Total distance from Del Norte is approximately 40-45 miles. Verify current road conditions with the Divide Ranger District before your trip, road closures affect access significantly.