Burning Bear/Abyss Lake Trailhead

If you're looking for a demanding jogging route, the Abyss Lake Trail offers a true test of endurance deep within the Mount Evans Wilderness. This difficult 16.7-mile (26.9 km) journey challenges you with a significant elevation gain of 3076 feet (937 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll pass through diverse ecosystems, starting with lodgepole pine forests and vibrant aspen stands along the Scott Gomer Creek drainage, before ascending into open alpine tundra and eventually reaching the pristine Abyss Lake itself.

Your adventure begins at the Burning Bear/Abyss Lake Trailhead, the designated starting point for this challenging route. Given the substantial elevation gain and the high alpine environment, it's crucial to be well-prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Make sure you pack adequate supplies and gear to ensure your safety and comfort during what will be a long day in the wilderness.

Abyss Lake is a notable feature, nestled dramatically in a high glacial cirque between Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky, offering spectacular alpine views that reward your effort. Before reaching Abyss Lake, you'll also pass Helms Lake, another beautiful high-altitude body of water. This trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies, showcasing its distinct ecological zones from dense forests to exposed tundra.