Lily Pond

Lily Pond sits tucked into the backcountry of Gunnison County along Forest Road 748, roughly five miles from the trailhead on a moderate but rolling trail that gains and loses elevation repeatedly. The hike rewards patient visitors with a striking alpine scene: a shallow pond blanketed almost entirely in lily pads, framed by dense forest and open meadows. Getting here means sharing the trail with dirt bikes and ATVs, but most hikers report having the lakeside completely to themselves once they arrive.

The pond itself is more spectacle than swimming hole. Thick lily pad coverage leaves little to no open water most of the season, and a marshy bog surrounds the shoreline, making close approach difficult except during drier stretches in late summer. Timing matters here: visit after a dry spell and you can walk right to the water's edge; arrive during a wet period and expect soggy ground well before the bank.

Bird watching is a standout activity at Lily Pond. Visitors describe sitting quietly and having birds approach within arm's reach, making this a rewarding stop for anyone carrying binoculars or a camera. The surrounding forest also shelters wildlife, and the trail passes an abandoned mine with old equipment and cabins roughly halfway to the pond, a worthwhile side stop that breaks up the hike.

Primitive camping near Lily Pond draws repeat visitors who prize solitude above amenities. There are no restrooms, no developed campsites, and no services. Bring everything you need, including a water filter, and plan to leave no trace. On clear nights, the lack of light pollution delivers some of the darkest skies on Colorado's Western Slope. Stargazers describe seeing the Milky Way in vivid detail, a sight that alone justifies the trek.

Lily Pond is best suited for hikers, backpackers, and nature watchers who want a quiet, off-the-grid experience in Gunnison County. It is not a fishing destination and offers no open water for paddling. Come for the wildflowers, the birds, and the stars.