Northern Highland Mary Lake

The Highland Mary Lakes Loop Trail offers a classic high-alpine experience, transporting you from forested climbs to vast, open tundra dotted with shimmering lakes like Highland Mary Lake. You'll navigate rugged terrain, including rocky sections and potential muddy spots, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, including the distinctive Grenadier Range. In late summer, the meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers, adding another layer of beauty to this challenging route.

Planning your visit means being prepared for a significant ascent and high-altitude conditions. A capable four-wheel-drive vehicle is often recommended for reaching the trailhead due to rough road conditions. Always check weather forecasts, as conditions can change quickly, and be aware that snow and ice can persist into early summer. This trail is best tackled by experienced hikers ready for a demanding day.

What makes this route truly special is its unique access to the Weminuche Wilderness's alpine tundra, typically reserved for multi-day backpacking trips. A significant portion of the loop also follows a segment of the iconic Continental Divide Trail (CDT), offering extended views and a chance to experience a piece of this legendary long-distance path. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a big mountain feel in a single day.

The Highland Mary Lakes Trail offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding hike into a stunning high-alpine environment near Silverton, Colorado. You'll ascend through forests and meadows alongside Cunningham Creek, eventually breaking out above the treeline into vast alpine tundra dotted with vibrant wildflowers in late summer. The route culminates at the pristine Highland Mary Lake, set against a backdrop of dramatic San Juan Mountains views, including peaks like West Trinity and Vestal, making it one of the more popular hikes in the region.

Planning your visit requires some foresight, as the final approach to the trailhead often demands a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle; otherwise, you'll add an extra mile to your journey. Be prepared for several creek crossings and remember to pack enough water or a filter, as this is a remote wilderness experience. Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its ability to provide day hikers with relatively quick access to a spectacular high-alpine wonderland that often requires multi-day backpacking trips elsewhere in the Weminuche Wilderness. It visits several lakes, including three of the seven Highland Mary Lakes, all situated above 12,000 feet. This trail is a fantastic option for experiencing the natural features of the Colorado high country without an overnight stay.