What activities are available at Herman Lake?

Herman Lake offers Hiking, Snowshoeing, Bird Watching, Dog Walking, Picnicking.

What amenities does Herman Lake have?

Herman Lake has Parking, Vault Toilets, Unpaved Trail.

Where is Herman Lake located?

Herman Lake is located in Clear Creek County, Colorado.

Is a permit required at Herman Lake?

Permit information is not currently available. Check with the managing agency for current requirements.

Herman Lake

lake

Clear Creek County, Colorado

4.8(29 reviews)

About Herman Lake

Herman Lake sits at 11,987 feet in a glacial cirque just east of the Continental Divide, making it one of the most accessible alpine lakes near Denver. The 7.2-mile round-trip hike from the Herman Gulch Trailhead off I-70 (Exit 218) climbs about 1,775 feet through dense subalpine forest, wildflower-filled meadows, and wide-open tundra before delivering you to a stunning body of water framed by the steep east face of Pettingell Peak.

The first mile gains elevation fast. Switchbacks carry you above the sound of interstate traffic and into the Herman Creek drainage, where willows line the banks and moose sightings are common in the early morning. Above treeline the grade eases as the trail crosses rolling alpine tundra dotted with columbine, Indian paintbrush, and alpine sunflowers during July and early August. A spur from the Continental Divide Trail leads the final quarter-mile to the lake itself.

Herman Lake rewards hikers with cold, clear water ringed by rock slabs perfect for a trailside lunch. In late June the lake can still be partially frozen, and snow patches may linger on the surrounding slopes into July. By mid-summer the wildflower display above treeline is among the best on the Front Range. Scan the ridgelines for bighorn sheep and mountain goat, and watch for pikas darting between the talus.

Because the trailhead sits just 45 minutes west of the Denver metro area, Herman Lake draws steady weekend traffic. Arriving before 7 a.m. secures a parking spot and lets you summit ahead of the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in almost daily from late June through August. Trekking poles help on the steep lower section, and layering is essential since temperatures at the lake can be 20 degrees cooler than the trailhead. Dogs are welcome on leash, though hikers should always pack out waste.

Herman Lake is a top pick for anyone looking for a challenging day hike to a genuine alpine lake without the long drive to deeper wilderness areas. The combination of proximity to Denver, dramatic above-treeline scenery, and Continental Divide views makes this trail one of Clear Creek County's most popular outdoor destinations.

Reviews (10)

Prosper

Awesome hike. Starts okay, but gets so steep half-way. 3.1 miles to Herman Lake from parking area. Had to come down from the lake running because of heavy sudden falling snow, lightning and thunder. Was adventorous😄😁

karoline spengler-moore

Almost perfect, but what surprised me was how many people are here. The hike was fun, beautiful and challenging. My dog and I had a blast. Plus: how many dog owners left their poo bags behind the porta-a-potty at the trail head. Sadly people doing that are the reason why more and more places become dog-unfriendly. I did pick up a few poo bags along the trail plus I removed probably 50 dog poo-bags. Shame on those who left them!!! Also the Forest Service should consider installing a trash can!!!!

Kristin Davidson

The hike to the lake is steep in some parts, and hiking poles might be useful but I didn’t use them today. As of July 11, the signpost marking the fork from the Hermann Lake Trail and the Continental Divide Trail seems to be missing.

Abhishek Yelgalwar

Beautiful place. Totally worth of the time spent hiking.The lake was still frozen on mid June hike but trail was clear until lake.

Jim B

Great hike! Worth the time to get to the lake! The views are amazing! Take exit 218 when traveling west on I-70. Turn right at the stop sign and then immediately right again. Best time is EARLY in the morning, both because it can get crowded as the day goes on and because chances for rain increase later in the day.

Dan Crawford

Steep to begin rising above and away from I 70. Trail follows Herman Creek through alpine meadows. On July 11 there were only three snow fields no more than 50 yards each. Wild flowers were not abundant yet. In my opinion above the tree line there's great views but the lake is more like a large pond. If you get winded stop at the tree line. Enjoy the stream.

Mark Cossin

Scenic hike close to Denver. The first part is steep but then the trail evens out and becomes easier to navigate. The big payoff is a peaceful lake at the base of the mountains. Bring a sack lunch and pick a spot on the rocks and chill.

Leanne Willson

Lake was low and water was cloudy. View was amazing. Long hike and it gets difficult at the last .5 mile.

Shaylon Homann

Beautiful hike. I've done this hike plenty of times and it's always more difficult than it seems like it should be.

Karen McGrath

A victim of the drought! Usually so beautiful, was a shade of green. But still a stunning hike.