Gilpin Lake in Routt National Forest sits within the Mount Zirkel Wilderness at the base of the high terrain forming the Continental Divide. The 5.5-mile round trip is a moderate hike that provides genuine alpine lake access without the strenuous commitment of the Seven Lakes or Zirkel loop routes.
The lake is named for William Gilpin, Colorado's first territorial governor. It is a genuine wilderness lake: no development, no motorized access, and the kind of clear cold water and rocky shoreline typical of the Zirkel's glacially carved basins.
The Route
The trail begins near the Slavonia Trailhead area and follows a parallel drainage into the wilderness on a course slightly different from the main Slavonia Trail. The forest character is consistent with other Routt high-country trails: spruce-fir forest transitioning to subalpine meadow. The lake is reached at 2.75 miles.
The lake basin provides good views toward the peaks above. The wildflower meadows in the approach are at their best in late July.
What to Expect
The trail is less trafficked than the main Slavonia route despite sharing the same general trailhead area. Hikers who want the Zirkel Wilderness lake experience with fewer people find Gilpin Lake a good choice.
The upper trail can be wet and muddy in early July when snowmelt is still underway. By late July conditions are typically good throughout.
Nearby
Clark is the nearest town, just south of the trailhead area. Steamboat Springs is about 25 miles south on County Road 129 and US-40, with full services including the historic Hot Sulphur Springs and the contemporary Strawberry Park hot springs.
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.
Safety Considerations
The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Routt National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.