Hassell Lake

Hassell Lake is a secluded alpine lake in Clear Creek County, reached by a short but steep hike that delivers a big payoff for the effort. Sitting high in the mountains west of Idaho Springs along the Henderson Mine road corridor, this lake draws hikers and backpackers who want alpine scenery without committing to an all-day expedition. The 3.8-mile round-trip hike packs 836 feet of elevation gain into a compact route, making it a concentrated workout that gets your heart rate up fast.

The trailhead access requires some planning. The road leading to the parking area is rough and bumpy, and a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. The parking lot is shared with anglers heading to nearby Urad Lake, so it fills up early on summer weekends. Arriving before mid-morning gives you the best chance at a spot and the bonus of cooler hiking temperatures on the ascent.

The lower sections of the trail are straightforward, with clear and dry tread through forested terrain. Higher up, conditions change with the season. In mid-June, hikers have encountered two to five feet of snow on the upper trail, making the final push to the lake a challenging slog through deep drifts. Snowshoes or microspikes are wise additions to your pack for early-season visits. By midsummer, the trail is typically clear all the way to the lake, and the hiking is manageable for anyone in reasonable shape.

Hassell Lake itself sits in a dramatic alpine setting surrounded by steep rock walls and subalpine forest. The lake remains partially frozen well into June, with open water appearing first near the inlet and outlet. By July and August, the full lake is accessible and makes a peaceful destination for a trailside lunch or photography session. The solitude factor is a major draw here. Visitors consistently report seeing very few other hikers, and some have had the entire trail to themselves.

Backcountry camping is available at the lake for those who want to extend the trip into an overnight. Pitching a tent alongside Hassell Lake under the alpine sky turns a half-day hike into a memorable mountain experience. The elevation and exposure mean temperatures drop fast after sunset, so bring appropriate layers and a warm sleeping bag even in summer. This is Clear Creek County backcountry at its most rewarding: accessible enough for a strong afternoon push, remote enough to feel like genuine wilderness.