Willow Lake

Willow Lake in Saguache County, Colorado, is accessed via the Willow Lake Trail (trail 865) starting at the South Crestone Lake Trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.

The Willow Lake Trail is considered a challenging hike with significant elevation gain (around 2,700 feet) to reach an elevation of 11,580 feet. While rewarding, it may not be ideal for beginner hikers or families with very young children due to its strenuous nature and alpine terrain. Hikers should be prepared for a demanding ascent.

As Willow Lake is located within the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in Rio Grande National Forest, dogs are generally permitted on trails. However, they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

While the intro mentions late spring through early autumn as the best time for hiking, Willow Lake can get busy during summer weekends. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall). Starting your hike early in the morning can also help you enjoy more solitude on the trail and at the lake.

Absolutely! Beyond the stunning blue water, Willow Lake is notable for its waterfalls at both the inflow and outflow points of Willow Creek. Many hikers recommend taking the trail to the left side of the lake to gain a higher vantage point, offering panoramic views and a closer look at the main waterfall. The surrounding granite formations of the Sangre de Cristo Range also provide dramatic scenery.

While the primary hiking season is from late spring to early autumn, Willow Lake is accessible in winter for experienced backcountry enthusiasts. Winter activities might include snowshoeing or ski touring, but these require significant preparation, avalanche awareness, and appropriate gear due to the high elevation and challenging alpine conditions. Always check weather and trail conditions before attempting a winter visit.

The main access to Willow Lake is via the Willow Lake Trail (trail 865), which is an out-and-back route. While you can explore around the lake's perimeter, there isn't a designated 'loop trail' that circles the entire lake and returns to the trailhead without retracing your steps on the main access trail. However, the area offers various routes for hikers and trail runners to explore.

As part of the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, Willow Lake is home to diverse alpine wildlife. Visitors might spot various bird species, marmots, pikas, and potentially larger mammals like deer or elk. Always observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding animals to maintain their natural behaviors.

Willow Lake is located in a remote wilderness area within the Rio Grande National Forest. There are no immediate cafes, pubs, or commercial accommodations directly at the lake or trailhead. The nearest town with amenities would be Crestone, Colorado, where you might find limited lodging, dining, and basic supplies. Visitors should plan to be self-sufficient for their trip.

The Willow Lake in Saguache County, Colorado, is a high-alpine glacial lake known for its rugged mountain scenery and challenging hiking. This distinguishes it from other notable Willow Lakes, such as Willow Lake in Prescott, Arizona, which is known for its Granite Dells and birdwatching, or Willow Lake in Southern Oregon, a man-made reservoir popular for boating and fishing. The Colorado Willow Lake offers a true wilderness backpacking and strenuous hiking experience.