Take Colorado 9 to Alma. In the middle of town and on the west side of the road, look for a small sign for the road to Kite Lake. It's across the road from the "Caniglia Real Estate" building. Turn here and drive a bit through a residential area. Continue 6 miles to Kite Lake. The last mile of this road can be a bit more rough, but a good-clearance 2WD should still be able to make it to within a couple hundred yards of the TH lot, when the road is dry. There are restrooms and some camping spots at the trailhead and an $8 fee is required.
Trailhead Status Updates
Most Recent Update 8/7/2026:
Road open all the way to campground trailhead! Not many parking spots today at 1100 but a few empty ones around 1400. The new road is quite nice!
Closed at the Paris Mill site which is about 3 miles up from Alma but 3 miles below Kite Lake.
Trailhead Facilities & Fees
Parking: 12-15 spots at the trailhead. Everyone else has to park along the road. Camping: Some established camp spots at Kite Lake. More dispersed spots along the road, just below the trailhead. Restrooms: Yes, at the trailhead parking area Fees: Yes, $8 in summer
