The Missouri Lakes in Holy Cross Wilderness became my “first” favorite spot in Colorado on July 3rd, 2001, when I decided to visit the area. I left Boulder at 11 p.m. that night and drove to the trailhead. The next morning, I was the first hiker up the trail. Once I reached Fancy Pass, I saw the most spectacular alpine meadow that I have ever seen - with Treasure Lake in the background. I told myself I would visit this place again soon.

In early July 2004, I planned a return trip to this spectacular area - a backpacking trip with my good friend Scott. This trip would be a little different from the first - we would hike up to the Missouri Lakes and camp somewhere in that area. Joined by newfound friends Foz, Angie and Trish, I began the journey to these lakes for what would be a weekend of fun to celebrate the independence of our great nation.

The hike to Missouri Lakes is the second most popular hike in Holy Cross Wilderness (after Mount of the Holy Cross). The parking at the trailhead is large in order accommodate the numerous vehicles. It is not uncommon to see over 50 vehicles in this parking lot. Don’t be too alarmed by the number of visitors though. Though the trail solitude is not as apparent as other locations in Colorado, you can still enjoy the peace that the Missouri Lakes area offers.

The beginning of the trail is flat and wide, and meanders through a heavy coniferous forest. It is a nice start that allows one’s legs to loosen up. After about a mile, the trail opens up and the slope increases drastically. There is a fork in the road that leads to an unmarked trail and CR 704. If you are lucky enough to be here early, there is parking for about 4 vehicles here - and it knocks about one mile off the trail! After a few steep sections in the next mile, the forest closes up and the roaring cascades of Missouri Creek are easily heard. There are several spots to leave the trail to view the cascades. It is not long before you reach the (arguably) best spot along the trail - the wooden bridge that crosses the cascades of Missouri Creek. This is a great spot to take the pack off and rest.

After this creek crossing, the trail has a few more steep ascents, including one that runs beside the spectacularly scenic Missouri Creek. The last mile and a half really levels out as the hike goes through some lush meadows. The trail eventually ends at the lower lakes. Lower Missouri Lake is the final destination for many, and I don’t blame anyone for selecting this spot. My advice is to stop and take a break at the lower lake, but keep moving after that. Some of the best scenery is found at the upper lakes.

A mile later, the upper lakes and some spectacular views of several 12,000-foot peaks are found. The views include Savage Peak, which towers over 13,000 feet. If one dares to ascend another quick 500 feet, the top of Missouri Pass is reached. Here lies amazing beauty and the spectacular view of Treasure Vault Lake.

Our destination on this backpacking adventure was a nice camping spot on the east side of Upper Missouri Lake. The Fourth of July is the busiest time at these lakes, which meant that several backpackers were around. Yet we managed to find a peaceful campsite that made us feel as if we were all alone in the wilderness. With the fire ban lifted due to the rain this summer, we were able to enjoy a blazing (yet safe!) campfire, along with fun evening festivities.

The next morning I left the group to take the extremely challenging, lung-busting hike to Blodgett Lake. I would not see my friends again on this adventure, since I had to leave a day early. I will never forget the time we had celebrating our independence and our new found friendship.
Scott (my good friend and Broncos buddy), Foz, Angie and Trish, I want to thank you for taking this adventure with me and allowing me to take the numerous photos of all of you and the experience. I also want to thank you Trish for providing the great wine that we all enjoyed during the holiday festivities – helped us get a peaceful night’s sleep.
The backpacking trip the group enjoyed to the Missouri Lakes and beyond is one that I highly recommend. Come share in the great time we all had together through my photography of this adventure...

When To Go

Mid-July to September, when the area is relatively snow free

Trailhead

Missouri Lakes Trailhead
(10,115')

Directions

From Hwy 24 (north from Leadville or south from Vail), turn west on Forest Road 703/Homestake Rd. Go about eight miles and turn right on FR 704. Drive roughly two miles after the turnoff to the trailhead.

Hike Length

3.5 miles one way, to camp at the largest lake

Elevation

1,645 foot gain,
to largest lake
[ Profile ]

Hike Rating

Scenery:

Solitude:

Difficulty:

[ about ]

Topo Map

Contributed by Kevin Adkins
Submit your Colorado adventures