Crystal Lake (Hayden Trailhead)

Crystal Lake (Hayden Trailhead) at Uncompahgre National Forest near Ouray, Colorado is an easy 0.3-mile out-and-back hike that features stunning views of Crystal Lake and the Red Mountains.

Hike
This short walk begins at the main parking lot for the Hayden Trailhead at Crystal Lake and follows the trail toward a trail junction located on the far northwest corner of the lake. The trail follows human-made dams, which appear to be built for water treatment of the acid mine runoff that flows from the mine-filled mountains to the south. Crystal Lake is one of the only (if not the only) clear and blue-body of water along the Million Dollar Highway due to the acid mine runoff that's prevalent in the creeks and streams here. This short route follows the main path as it leads around Crystal Lake featuring views for virtually the entire length of the walk. To the south are the Red Mountains (Brown Mountain, Red Mountain #1, Red Mountain #2, and Red Mountain #3) that sit in the distance above Crystal Lake. The route the leads to the banks of Crystal Lake where the creek flows in toward the main body of water -- here you can find mudflats that stretch out toward the creek as it snakes its way through the tall grass as it cuts through the landscape. After exploring Crystal Lake, the path leads out for a short 0.3-mile hike.

Parking
Hikers will find a large parking turnout at the coordinates provided, located on the west side of the Million Dollar Highway.

Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.