Grizzly Lake is a remote, high-alpine lake in Chaffee County, Colorado, hidden deep in the Sawatch Range and accessible only by a demanding 4x4 trail or a strenuous hike. With a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors and reviews that consistently describe the scenery as spectacular, this is one of those Colorado destinations that earns every bit of its reputation through the effort required to reach it.
Access is the defining feature of a Grizzly Lake trip. The 4x4 route tests even well-built rigs with a steep initial incline, rocky terrain throughout, and a shelf road with a sheer drop-off that demands full attention. The trail begins with a gatekeeper obstacle that sets the tone for the rest of the drive. Larger tires, solid clearance, and off-road experience are recommended, and several reviewers advise against attempting the trail solo in case recovery assistance is needed. For those without a capable vehicle, hiking in is an option, though the terrain is steep and the route is not for casual walkers.
The payoff at the top is extraordinary. Grizzly Lake sits in a striking alpine basin surrounded by rugged peaks, offering the kind of views that make you stop and stare. The lake is secluded enough that you may have the entire basin to yourself on a weekday, creating an experience that feels genuinely wild and unrepeated.
Fishing at Grizzly Lake is outstanding. Visitors report prolific catches, with one reviewer describing a 30-fish day. The remote location means low fishing pressure, and the cold, clear water supports healthy fish populations. Fly fishing and lure fishing both produce results. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
There are no developed facilities at Grizzly Lake. No restrooms, no campground infrastructure, and no services of any kind. This is backcountry in the truest sense. If you plan to camp, you are fully on your own for water, shelter, and waste management. Pack everything in and pack everything out.
The best time to visit is July through September, when the trail is most likely to be passable and snow has cleared from the higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer across the Sawatch Range, so an early start is essential whether you are driving or hiking. Bring layers, sun protection, and more water than you think you need. The reward for all this preparation is a lake and landscape that multiple visitors describe as unlike anywhere else in Colorado.