Lost Lake in Roosevelt National Forest sits at the edge of the Arapaho National Forest boundary in the high country near Ward, Colorado. The 5.5-mile round trip is a good moderate alternative to the busy Indian Peaks Wilderness trails in the same area, offering genuine alpine lake scenery without permit requirements or the parking competition that affects the Brainard Lake corridor.
The lake lives up to its name in the sense that it attracts far fewer visitors than its famous neighbors. The wildflower meadows and mountain views on the approach make the hike rewarding even before reaching the lake.
The Route
The trail leaves from a forest road trailhead and climbs through subalpine forest before reaching the alpine zone below the lake. Wildflowers cover the open slopes above treeline in July and August. The lake is reached at 2.75 miles, where the rocky basin provides good views of the peaks above.
Return on the same trail. The descent gives a wider perspective on the valley below and the Front Range terrain stretching east toward the plains.
What to Expect
The trail is in generally good condition. The upper sections above treeline can be wet and muddy in early July when snow is still melting. By late July the trail is typically dry. Afternoon thunderstorms are a standard Colorado mountain risk from July through August; start early.
The lack of a permit requirement and the absence of a fee make this trail more accessible than the nearby Indian Peaks destinations. For hikers who want an alpine lake experience without planning complexity, Lost Lake is a good choice.
Nearby
Ward, Colorado, is a quirky mountain town about 5 miles east and has a small general store. Boulder is about 35 miles east for full services. The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (CO-72/CO-7) connects the Ward area to Estes Park in the north and Blackhawk in the south, making for a scenic driving loop around a day of hiking.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.