Andrews Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake in San Juan County, perched at over 10,000 feet along the Million Dollar Highway (CO Highway 550) just south of Silverton near Molas Pass. This small alpine lake sits within the San Juan National Forest and offers some of the most accessible mountain scenery in the region. No entry fee is required, making it a popular and easy stop for travelers driving between Durango and Silverton.
Fishing is a reliable draw at Andrews Lake. Rainbow trout and brook trout both inhabit the clear waters. Anglers report catching rainbows up to 14 inches on spinners, with morning sessions around 9 AM producing the best results. Brook trout are described as healthy and hungry, responding well to brightly colored jigs. Ice fishing is also productive here during winter months, with visitors catching limits within a few hours. A fishing pier provides easy access, along with several other shoreline spots that do not require difficult scrambling.
A loop trail circles the entire lake, offering a short and scenic hike suitable for families and visitors of all fitness levels. The trail passes through wildflower meadows in summer and provides views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains from multiple angles. The terrain is gentle enough for most people, and the full loop can be completed in under an hour. The lake and mountains make for outstanding photography, and visitors have even used the location for weddings.
Restrooms are available at the parking area, which is well-maintained and spacious enough to handle typical visitor traffic. The lake is accessible directly off Highway 550, so no long forest road approach is necessary. Picnic spots are available around the shore. The area is free to visit with no permits or passes required.
Summer weather at this altitude changes quickly, especially in the afternoons, so bringing a jacket and rain gear is recommended. Mosquitoes can be aggressive during peak summer. Snow lingers into early June and the access road is not maintained in winter, so reaching the lake by vehicle during the colder months can be difficult or impossible. The best visiting season runs from late June through September when the road is clear and wildflowers are in bloom.