Lizard Lake

Lizard Lake is a strikingly beautiful alpine lake in Gunnison County, nestled along Crystal City Road between the town of Marble and the historic ghost town of Crystal. At roughly five acres, the lake is small but visually dramatic, with deep turquoise water reflecting the surrounding peaks of the Elk Mountains. Many visitors stop here on their way to photograph the Crystal Mill, one of the most iconic structures in Colorado, making Lizard Lake a natural waypoint on one of the state's most scenic backcountry drives.

Despite its modest size, Lizard Lake has earned an outsized reputation. Some local claims suggest it may be one of the deepest bodies of water in Colorado relative to its surface area, with the bottom dropping off steeply from the shoreline. The lake sits in what appears to be a volcanic depression, giving it an unusually deep basin that has never been officially surveyed to a definitive depth. Whether the deepest-lake claim holds up or not, the dramatic drop-off is visible from the shore and adds to the lake's mystique.

Fishing at Lizard Lake offers a chance to catch wild cutthroat and rainbow trout. The fish here are not stocked and tend to be wary, making for a rewarding challenge with fly or light spinning gear. Visitors have reported seeing trout spawning in the shallows during certain seasons, and the fish population appears healthy but limited. A Colorado fishing license is required, and anglers should handle fish carefully to protect the wild population. Wading is discouraged due to the steep drop-offs just feet from shore.

The road to Lizard Lake is a rough, narrow 4WD track that follows the Crystal River valley through aspen forest and alpine meadows. While some adventurous drivers have made it in passenger vehicles, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. The drive itself is a highlight, passing through some of the most photographed scenery in Colorado's Western Slope. The lake is also accessible on foot or by mountain bike from Marble, adding roughly four miles each way along the river valley. There are no developed facilities at Lizard Lake, so bring everything you need and pack out all waste.