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Turquoise Lake Trail

Running trails & routes

United States

Colorado

Lake County

Turquoise Lake Trail

Hard

2.7

(28)

runners

Turquoise Lake Trail

Q: Where can I park to access the Turquoise Lake Trail?

You can find parking at various points around Turquoise Lake. Popular access points include areas near the May Queen Campground , which provides direct access to the trail. During peak season, especially summer weekends and holidays, parking can be busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Q: Is the Turquoise Lake Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! However, all dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Q: What is the best time of year to jog this trail?

The trail is accessible year-round, but the most popular and generally best time for jogging is from May to November, once the snow has melted. Early summer offers views of small waterfalls, particularly near the May Queen Campground side.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to jog this trail?

No specific permits are required for jogging the Turquoise Lake Trail itself. However, as it's located within the San Isabel National Forest, standard forest regulations apply. There might be fees for certain amenities like camping at developed campgrounds, but not for trail access.

Q: How long does it typically take to jog the Turquoise Lake Trail?

The full loop, which is approximately 21.4 km (13.3 miles), typically takes around 2 hours and 33 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and stops.

Q: What is the terrain like on the trail?

The trail is primarily a rolling single-track dirt path. While mostly flat and considered one of the best relatively flat trail runs in the Leadville area, it can be rocky in some sections. It features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a less strenuous run.

Q: What can I see along the route?

You'll enjoy constant, picturesque views of Turquoise Lake , with magnificent backdrops of snow-dusted peaks like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. The trail winds through lodgepole pines and open shoreline. You'll also pass the Turquoise Lake Dam and sections of the Turquoise Lake Trail — Northern Section .

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 4, CDT - Colorado Section, Colorado Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 9 and 10).

Q: Is the Turquoise Lake Trail suitable for beginners?

The trail is generally rated as easy to moderate due to its relatively flat nature and minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for a wide range of runners. However, it's important to remember that it's situated at a high elevation (around 9,800 to 10,000 feet above sea level), which can still be challenging for those not accustomed to exercising at altitude. It's considered a great trail for acclimatization.

Q: Are there any specific regulations for jogging in San Isabel National Forest?

When jogging in San Isabel National Forest, always practice Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife. Dogs must be leashed, and be mindful of other users as it's a popular multi-use trail for hikers and bikers too. Check for any fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons.

02:33

21.4km

250m

Running

The Turquoise Lake Trail offers a difficult jogging experience, covering 13.3 miles (21.4 km) with an elevation gain of 807 feet (246 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 32 minutes. As you jog, you'll be treated to constant, picturesque views of Turquoise Lake, framed by majestic snow-dusted peaks like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. The trail winds through lodgepole pines and open shoreline, providing a serene mountain atmosphere.

While you can access this trail year-round, it is most popular from May to November once the snow has melted. Be aware that the route is at a high elevation, ranging from 9,800 to 10,000 feet above sea level, which can be challenging if you are not used to it. During summer weekends and holidays, the trail can get quite busy with other outdoor enthusiasts, so plan your visit accordingly.

This route is located within the beautiful San Isabel National Forest, offering a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you enjoy the landscape. In early summer, especially near the May Queen Campground side, you might even catch glimpses of small waterfalls along the way.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

San Isabel National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

176 m

Turquoise Lake Dam

Highlight (Segment) • Monument

Turquoise Lake Dam acts as a hydroelectric power source, being fueled entirely by snowmelt from the peaks surrounding the lake. You can cross the dam and follow the road all the way around the lake or connect to the Turquoise Lake Trail on the other side of the reservoir at May Queen Campground.

Tip by

11.3 km

May Queen Campground

Highlight • Rest Area

May Queen Campground serves as the western terminus of Turquoise Lake Trail. There is river/lake beach access from the campground parking area, and you can even walk out onto the lake in the spring when it is still frozen. The campground itself is a USFS campground with reservable sites and vault toilets right next to the trailhead.

Tip by

11.4 km

Turquoise Lake Trail — Northern Section

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The more northern miles of Turquoise Lake Trail (the section past the campsites) are known for being the rootier, rockier, hillier, and more technical portions of trail. With rocky access down to the shore at the end towards May Queen Campground, the rest of this section of trail stays in the trees crossing creeks and bridges.

Tip by

21.2 km

Turquoise Lake

Highlight • Lake

The first half of the Turquoise Lake Trail passes by multiple USFS campgrounds, fishing areas, boat ramps, public beaches, picnic spots, and viewing areas. There is a separate singletrack trail system maintained by the Cloud City Wheelers branching into the main Turquoise Lake Trail within the first couple miles, and there are continuous views as you dive in and out of the trees. There is some slight up and down, but this trail is mostly flat (or as flat as you can find around here).

Tip by

21.4 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

12.9 km

7.19 km

1.21 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

12.9 km

5.88 km

1.41 km

1.21 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (3,160 m)

Lowest point (3,000 m)

Weather

Today

Thursday 7 May

8°C

-10°C

14 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Turquoise Lake Trail?

You can find parking at various points around Turquoise Lake. Popular access points include areas near the May Queen Campground, which provides direct access to the trail. During peak season, especially summer weekends and holidays, parking can be busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Is the Turquoise Lake Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! However, all dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

What is the best time of year to jog this trail?

The trail is accessible year-round, but the most popular and generally best time for jogging is from May to November, once the snow has melted. Early summer offers views of small waterfalls, particularly near the May Queen Campground side.

Are there any permits or fees required to jog this trail?

No specific permits are required for jogging the Turquoise Lake Trail itself. However, as it's located within the San Isabel National Forest, standard forest regulations apply. There might be fees for certain amenities like camping at developed campgrounds, but not for trail access.

How long does it typically take to jog the Turquoise Lake Trail?

The full loop, which is approximately 21.4 km (13.3 miles), typically takes around 2 hours and 33 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and stops.

What is the terrain like on the trail?

The trail is primarily a rolling single-track dirt path. While mostly flat and considered one of the best relatively flat trail runs in the Leadville area, it can be rocky in some sections. It features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a less strenuous run.

What can I see along the route?

You'll enjoy constant, picturesque views of Turquoise Lake, with magnificent backdrops of snow-dusted peaks like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. The trail winds through lodgepole pines and open shoreline. You'll also pass the Turquoise Lake Dam and sections of the Turquoise Lake Trail — Northern Section.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 4, CDT - Colorado Section, Colorado Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 9 and 10).

Is the Turquoise Lake Trail suitable for beginners?

The trail is generally rated as easy to moderate due to its relatively flat nature and minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for a wide range of runners. However, it's important to remember that it's situated at a high elevation (around 9,800 to 10,000 feet above sea level), which can still be challenging for those not accustomed to exercising at altitude. It's considered a great trail for acclimatization.

Are there any specific regulations for jogging in San Isabel National Forest?

When jogging in San Isabel National Forest, always practice Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife. Dogs must be leashed, and be mindful of other users as it's a popular multi-use trail for hikers and bikers too. Check for any fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons.

Can I swim in Turquoise Lake after jogging?

Yes, swimming is allowed in Turquoise Lake, offering a refreshing way to cool off after your jog. Just be aware that the water can be quite cold, even in summer.