Copper Creek and Copper Lake Hike

Dogs Leashed

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

This Crested Butte classic is a nice day run. Enough miles to get you away from crowds, a lake at timberline, a simple mountain pass, and multiple options for adding a technical peak scramble if you want. An overnight adventure to on this trail to Copper Lake makes for a nice introductory backpacking trip with everything you'd want.

Great for trail running because if its gradual elevation gain. It gets steep at the switchbacks, so you'll probably have to hike/walk there. However, it is a short section.

This is a well marked intermediate trail. You pass by beautiful Judd Falls and follow Copper Creek all the way to Copper Lake. The elevation gain is mild except for one section toward the end with some switchbacks. Copper Creek Trail #983 is also a great starting spot for backpacking. You can continue toward Triangle Pass, Copper Pass, or East Maroon Pass which all access amazing basins. In the summer, this is great trail for wildflower viewing.

Elk, moose, deer, mountain goats, marmots, pikas, songbirds. Mixed forest, riparian creek zones, and wildflowers everywhere.