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An unmaintained, native surface trail with fantastic views of high peaks and stunning glaciers.


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Map Key

7.9

Miles

12.8

KM

Point to Point

12,725' 3,878 m

High

9,992' 3,046 m

Low

2,782' 848 m

Up

1,544' 471 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (6°)

32%

Max Grade (18°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Campfires are not permitted in this area of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Permits are required for overnight stays from June 1st - September 15th.

Description

The Arapaho Glacier Trail #905 leads northward from the main trailhead (located before entering the Rainbow Lakes Campground) and crosses into the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Climbing through the woods for about two miles, the trail exits onto the open tundra with a fine view into the City of Boulder Watershed. As posted, this area is private. Do not trespass.

After additional switchbacks, the Arapaho Glacier Trail crosses to the south side of the ridge. At the highest point on the trail is a spectacular overlook of the Arapaho Glacier, South Arapaho (13,397 feet), and North Arapaho (13,502 feet) Peaks.

Although no official trail exists, it is possible to ascend South and North Arapaho Peaks by following the ridge above the glacier. The climb to South Arapaho Peak is straightforward rock hopping. From South to North Arapaho Peak, scrambling is necessary. Technical equipment is not required but the narrow ridge is steep and rocky. Use caution.

The Arapaho Glacier Trail descends 1,300 feet down a series of switchbacks to intersect the Arapaho Pass Trail #904 at the Fourth of July Mine. Arapaho Pass is 1.2 miles farther west.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 21 votes

#1

in Nederland

#136

Overall
  4.8 from 21 votes
5 Star
76%
4 Star
24%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in Nederland

#33

in Colorado

#136

Overall
25 Views Last Month
29,060 Since Apr 7, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
0%
24%
18%
59%
0%

Photos

Triple Lakes sits below Arapaho Glacier, Mount Albion, and North Arapaho Peak.
Jul 9, 2017 near Nederland, CO
Epic summer flowers.
Jul 10, 2016 near Nederland, CO
Looking out at Arapaho Glacier.
May 11, 2021 near Nederland, CO
"Life above tree line is awesome!"
Aug 26, 2015 near Nederland, CO
The summer flowers were crazy epic!
Jul 10, 2016 near Nederland, CO
The summer flowers were crazy epic.
Jul 10, 2016 near Nederland, CO
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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