Hancock Lake

4.9/5 (32 reviews)
Alpine tundra, pristine lakes, epic fishing and high mountain valleys are just some of the rewards that await at the end of the Hancock Lake Trail. The trail begins at the old townsite of Hancock, Colorado and from there heads south into the Chalk Creek Pass Valley. You will traverse through conifer...Read More
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Highlights of Hancock Lake

Altitude Category IconAltitude
Beginner Category IconBeginner
Camping Category IconCamping
Forest Category IconForest
Mine Category IconMine
Overland Category IconOverland
Rock Category IconRock
Highest Elevation
11653 ft
Shape of Trail
Out & Back
Typically Open
06/15 - 10/31
Best Direction
N/A
Official Trail Name
FS 295
Nearest Town
Saint Elmo
Nearest Services
Buena Vista
Management Agency
San Isabel National Forest
District
Salida Ranger District

Overview

Alpine tundra, pristine lakes, epic fishing and high mountain valleys are just some of the rewards that await at the end of the Hancock Lake Trail. The trail begins at the old townsite of Hancock, Colorado and from there heads south into the Chalk Creek Pass Valley. You will traverse through conifer forests, willows and tundra on your way toward the parking area that sits at just over 11,600' of elevation. A short hike from the parking area brings Lower Hancock Lake into view, and a more focused hike will take you to Upper Hancock Lake that sits just a bit higher in the valley. Be sure to respect this pristine area and pack out everything you pack in.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Guide Overview
8 Waypoints
26 Trail Photos
1 Trail Concerns
32 Community Reviews
1 Video
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