Hancock Lake

4.8/5 (41 reviews)
Climbing into a secluded alpine basin near the historic Hancock townsite, the Hancock Lake trail follows Chalk Creek over a rocky, bumpy road framed by sweeping mountain views and remote high-country campsites. The route culminates at a pair of alpine lakes cradled beneath the Continental Divide and...Read More
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Hancock Lake Trail Information

Altitude Category IconAltitude
Beginner Category IconBeginner
Camping Category IconCamping
Forest Category IconForest
Mine Category IconMine
Overland Category IconOverland
Rock Category IconRock
Highest Elevation
11654 ft
Shape of Trail
Out & Back
Typically Open
Year Round
Best Direction
N/A
Official Trail Name
295
Nearest Town
Saint Elmo
Nearest Services
Buena Vista
Management Agency
Pike and San Isabel National Forests
District
Salida Ranger District

Trail Experience

Climbing into a secluded alpine basin near the historic Hancock townsite, the Hancock Lake trail follows Chalk Creek over a rocky, bumpy road framed by sweeping mountain views and remote high-country campsites. The route culminates at a pair of alpine lakes cradled beneath the Continental Divide and towering 13,000-foot peaks, where stark ridgelines, lingering snowfields, and a deep sense of isolation make the destination feel far removed from the valleys below. It is a rewarding side trip for those traveling Hancock Pass and searching for a quieter taste of Colorado’s alpine scenery.

Trail Difficulty

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