Rock Creek to Lower Boulder Lake

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Most alpine lakes are a lot harder and farther to get to. Lower Boulder Lake is a family friendly hike starting from Rock Creek and running through dense forest until you hit the lake with beautiful views of the mountain beyond.

Watch out for hunters in the fall, this is one of their go-to places; wear orange!

Starting from the Rock Creek Trailhead, follow North Rock Creek Trail #46 for about a half mile and then take the right at the first junction onto the Gore Range Trail. You'll hike through a thick forest with a lot of pine beetle kill. There are a lot of game and hunting trails so make sure to stay straight on the Gore Range Trail through any false intersections. A little over a mile and a half, the trail crests and then drops down through the forest on a very fun downhill section.

At the end of the downhill, you'll cross a small creek and come to the junction of the Boulder Creek Trail and the Gore Range Trail. Take a left onto the Boulder Creek Trail and start the climb; you'll pass a junction, with the trail straight ahead blocked off for restoration. Continue to the right and up a switchback to stay on the Boulder Creek Trail. In about a half mile from the Gore Range Trail - Boulder Creek Trail junction, you'll reach Lower Boulder Lake. Now turn around and return the way you came.

Possible moose sightings anywhere near the lake!