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Gold Creek Lake Trail

Routt National Forest, Colorado · 3 min read

Distance
7 mi
Elevation Gain
1,600 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Est. Time
4-6 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
8 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Pristine alpine lake in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness
  • Gold Creek canyon with good conifer and meadow scenery
  • Wildflowers on the upper approach in late July
  • Good alternative to the more crowded Slavonia Trail
  • Wildlife habitat for elk, deer, and pikas
lakewildflowers

Gold Creek Lake in Routt National Forest is a high-country destination in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness accessible via the Gold Creek drainage from trailheads north of Clark, Colorado. The seven-mile round trip gains 1,600 feet through conifer forest and subalpine meadow terrain, reaching the lake at approximately 11,000 feet.

The Zirkel Wilderness contains multiple named lakes in close proximity, and Gold Creek Lake is one of the cleaner alpine lake destinations with consistent wildflower displays in the surrounding basin.

The Route

The trail follows Gold Creek upstream from the trailhead through forest that transitions from aspen and lodgepole at lower elevations to spruce-fir above 10,000 feet. The canyon narrows in the upper section before opening into the basin below the lake. The lake is reached at 3.5 miles.

The lake sits in a compact basin with rocky walls on the upper end. The lower meadow approaches are the wildflower highlight, with the best displays typically in the last two weeks of July.

What to Expect

The Gold Creek corridor is a moderate-traffic approach to the Zirkel Wilderness. Parking at the trailhead area is generally available even on summer weekends, though busier than midweek. The trail is well-defined throughout.

The lake supports trout; a Colorado fishing license is required as of 2026. The cold, clear water is typical of Zirkel Wilderness lakes and reflects the surrounding peaks on calm mornings.

Nearby

Clark and the Elk River valley are the immediate base area. Steamboat Springs is the hub for services. The broader Clark-Elk River corridor offers multiple ranch stays and guest ranch experiences that complement a Zirkel Wilderness hiking trip.

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-hard 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.

Trailhead Parking

Gold Creek Trailhead off Forest Road 400 near Clark. Gravel lot with room for 15 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Routt National Forest

More Trails in Routt National Forest

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Hike to Gilpin Lake in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate 5.5-mile out-and-back gains 1,400 feet to a quiet alpine lake in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness with summer wildflowers.

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Hike to Seven Lakes in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This strenuous 9-mile out-and-back gains 2,200 feet to a chain of alpine lakes in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness with meadows and views.

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Slavonia Trail

8.5 mi1,800 ft gain
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Hike the Slavonia Trail in Routt National Forest, Colorado. This moderate-hard 8.5-mile out-and-back gains 1,800 feet to alpine lakes and meadows in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness near Steamboat Springs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gold Creek Lake on the Slavonia Trail?
Gold Creek Lake is a distinct destination from the Slavonia Trail's Gold Lake, though both are in the Gold Creek drainage of the Zirkel Wilderness. The naming can cause confusion; confirm your route before departing.
Is a permit required?
No permit is required for day hiking or overnight camping in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness as of 2026.
Can I camp near Gold Creek Lake?
Yes. Dispersed camping is permitted in the wilderness following Leave No Trace guidelines. Camp at least 200 feet from the lake shoreline.
How difficult is the trail?
The trail is rated moderate-hard with 1,600 feet of gain over 7 miles round trip. The grade is consistent rather than extreme, making it manageable for hikers with good base fitness.