High alpine lake suggestion

[davebks]

So we're planning a trip for fall. Hoping to catch some good fall colors. It's my core crew here in Colorado so we've been out together a lot. all over the state.
I suggested sopris but my buddy wants to go somewhere w fishing and perhaps a peak option. Doesnt need to be a 14er, maybe better if it's not.

any thoughts? Ive been to a lot of the vail area lakes. Lonesome, Missouri, Middle Lake, Paradise, upper homestake, etc.
Just looking for something new. We'll have Thurs-Sunday so plenty of time.
Maybe 5-10 miles total but we're good for whatever.

[SkaredShtles]

You almost can't go wrong just picking one. I'd say Flat Tops or Sangres. Or San Juans. Or the Sawatch. Or the Zirkels.

[davebks]

hahaha.... I know they are all great... but do you have a suggestion for one you really love? looking for something new. We can't go hike them all.

[SkaredShtles]

hahaha.... I know they are all great... but do you have a suggestion for one you really love? looking for something new. We can't go hike them all.

I was srs - just pick one. You really can't go wrong.

And places I love I don't broadcast on the internetz...

[HikerGuy]

Cathedral Lake impressed me last year. It had some big fish in it. Easy trailhead access. You could hike Electric Pass Peak as an easier summit option. And you can't beat the color in that area. Not sure what permits are needed, if any for backpacking.

I was also impressed by Lake Ann. Again, pretty good access. West Apostle and Unnamed 13253 are close by.

Neither of those are off the beaten path though.

[Scott P]

hahaha.... I know they are all great... but do you have a suggestion for one you really love? looking for something new. We can't go hike them all.

In the Flat Tops, there are two many lakes to list, but I'd highly recommend the Lost Lakes Loop which passes several lakes and goes over Devils Causeway. In my opinion, it's the best loop in the Flat Tops.

If you have a car shuttle, I'd recommend Buffalo Pass to Slovenia in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. There are many lakes on either side of the trail which are accessible by way of short spur trails. Fall colors will be nil on the ridge though. They will still be present in the lower valleys.

[hootenatty]

Crater Lake in the Indian Peaks wilderness. I'm not a fisherman, but I hear there's greenback cutthroat and brook trout. You can climb Lone Eagle right next door.

[davebks]

I think I forgot to mention that fall colors would be a plus. thus the timing for the trip.

[davebobk47]

In the range that shall not be named - Salmon Lake, Willow Lakes or there are some small lakes just east of Red Buffalo pass.