Strawberry Lake sits tucked into the mountains of Grand County, Colorado, reached by a scenic 3.7-mile trail that follows a creek fed directly by the lake itself. The hike is moderate to easy, well-marked throughout, and passes through lush forest before opening up to a pristine alpine lake that feels like a genuine hidden gem in the Colorado high country. Families with children as young as six have completed the trail without difficulty, making Strawberry Lake one of the more accessible backcountry lake destinations in the region.
The trail to Strawberry Lake is the main attraction here. Hikers gain steady elevation along the creek drainage, passing through wildflower meadows and dense stands of pine and spruce. The path stays well-defined, so route-finding is straightforward even for less experienced hikers. Once at the lake, expect a quiet, undeveloped setting surrounded by peaks. There are no formal facilities at the lake itself, so visitors should plan to pack in everything they need and pack out all waste.
Fishing is possible at Strawberry Lake, though anglers should come prepared for a backcountry experience rather than a stocked reservoir. The creek along the trail also offers small stream fishing opportunities for those willing to explore off the beaten path. During summer months, insect activity can be heavy near the water, so bringing effective bug spray is strongly recommended by visitors who have made the trek.
Strawberry Lake makes an excellent day hike destination from late June through early October, depending on snowpack. The trail can see lingering snow into early summer at higher elevations. Fall brings golden aspen color to the lower sections of the hike, adding visual reward to an already scenic route. For hikers based in the Fraser or Winter Park area, Strawberry Lake provides a satisfying half-day outing that delivers genuine backcountry beauty without requiring technical skill or overnight gear.