Geneva Lake Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Fishing · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

From Snowmass Lake, the trail begins above the lake on the south side of the outlet. For the next 1.5 miles, the trail climbs steeply up Trail Rider Pass. From the Pass, the trail drops precipitously and becomes flat as it enters a large basin. Bypass the North Fork Cutoff and climb slightly as the backs of the Maroon Bells impose themselves on your view to the east. Of course, Snowmass Mountain and Hagerman Peak do the same to your north.

From this awesome viewpoint, drop into a steep section of the trail's namesake lake, Geneva Lake. Views of Snowmass Mountain and Hagerman Peak will take your breath away! Continue south as the trail winds its way around the lake and hits a very steep section. Continue past the multitudes of cascading waterfalls as the trail winds its way down this beautiful slope.

In the far off distance, you'll be able to see the backside of the Bells even more prominently than before - these are some of Colorado's most picturesque mountains. The final push provides some well-earned respite for the rest of the route. Savor the open meadows and sparse trees as you head to the trail's termination at the Lead King Loop.

It is also popular to hike/backpack this route in the opposite direction as described, by starting at Lead King Basin trailhead and heading in the direction of Snowmass Lake.

If staying overnight at Geneva Lake or Snowmass Lake, advance reservation overnight permits are required and must be purchased at recreation.gov.

Approved bear food storage containers are required and strictly enforced. For more information, check out the US Forest Service's website.