Lost Lake Slough sits along the scenic Kebler Pass corridor in Gunnison County, serving as one of three interconnected lakes—along with Lost Lake and Dollar Lake—that together form one of Colorado's most photogenic high-country hiking and camping destinations. Surrounded by dense aspen groves and spruce-fir forest at the base of the Raggeds Wilderness, this area transforms into a world-class fall color destination when the aspens turn gold in late September. The slough itself is a calm, accessible body of water popular with anglers, campers, and families looking for an easy mountain lake experience without a demanding approach.
Fishing at Lost Lake Slough draws consistent interest from anglers targeting stocked rainbow trout. Colorado Parks and Wildlife keeps the lake supplied with 10- to 12-inch rainbows, making it a reliable option for spin fishing and fly fishing alike. The lake does experience seasonal drawdowns that limit carryover of larger fish, so expectations should be set accordingly—this is a great spot for steady action on stocked trout rather than trophy hunting. Weekday visits are strongly recommended, as the lake's popularity means it can get crowded on weekends and holidays, with boat and shore fishing pressure both climbing during peak summer months.
The Lost Lake Slough campground provides a base for exploring the surrounding trail network. A well-worn loop trail circles the slough and connects to Lost Lake and Dollar Lake, creating a manageable hiking circuit that showcases alpine meadows, wildflower fields, and views of the Raggeds peaks. The campground fills quickly—even midweek during July and August—so early arrivals or reservations are essential if you plan to overnight. Day-use visitors should be aware that a fee may be required even for short stops, and camp hosts enforce the policy.
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are all viable on Lost Lake Slough thanks to its calm surface and manageable size. Motorized boats are not appropriate for the slough given its shallow depth and smaller footprint. The surrounding area is a hub for hiking, mountain biking along Kebler Pass Road, and bird watching in the mixed aspen-conifer forest. Crested Butte, one of Colorado's premier mountain towns, sits just a short drive to the east, offering restaurants, gear shops, and additional trailhead access.
Lost Lake Slough is one of those Colorado destinations that has been "discovered" in recent years, and the growing popularity shows in busy campgrounds and weekend traffic. Visit midweek if you can, arrive early for camping, and take the time to hike the full three-lake loop—the combination of accessible fishing, easy trails, and some of the best aspen scenery in the state makes this corner of Gunnison County worth the drive over Kebler Pass.