The best walks and hikes in Pearl Lake State Park
4.5
(2)
30
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Pearl Lake State Park offers a variety of trails within this natural area, situated in Routt County, Colorado. The landscape features Pearl Lake itself, surrounded by the Elkhead Mountains, providing a mix of lake views and mountain terrain. The park's trails navigate through areas that include both open spaces and forested sections, characteristic of a Colorado state park environment.
Best hiking trails in Pearl Lake State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Pearl Lake State Park — Elkhead Mountains, CO, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete, offering views of the lake and surrounding hills.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tombstone Nature Trail Loop in Steamboat Lake State Park — Elkhead Mountains, CO, an easy 1.0 mile (1.7 km) path that winds through natural scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Hinman Lake loop from Hinman Lake, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
- Hiking in Pearl Lake State Park is defined by lake views, mountain trails, and forested areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, including easy and moderate routes.
- The routes in Pearl Lake State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from a few reviews. More than 20 hikers have used komoot to explore Pearl Lake State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2
hikers
5.71km
01:31
60m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Pearl Lake Trail, a gentle route that offers peaceful lakeside views and winds through charming aspen groves. This 3.5-mile (5.7 km) path is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. You will experience a modest elevation gain of 186 feet (57 metres), making it accessible for most hikers. As you follow the Pearl Lake Connection Trail, you'll enjoy the serene atmosphere of the 167-acre mountain reservoir. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that calls this area home, adding to the natural charm of your journey.
Pearl Lake State Park provides convenient amenities to enhance your visit, including picnic tables and restrooms near the trailhead. These facilities make it a comfortable stop for families or anyone looking for a leisurely day outdoors. The park is easily accessible, and you can plan your trip knowing that basic comforts are available. Consider visiting during the quieter parts of the day to fully appreciate the tranquility of the lake and its surroundings.
Beyond the immediate lakeside, the Pearl Lake Trail extends into Routt National Forest, offering expansive views of Farwell Mountain and Lester Peak through towering evergreens. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 200 bird species, so bring your binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching. The quiet waters of Pearl Lake are also ideal for non-motorized watercraft, providing another way to experience the natural beauty of this 167-acre mountain reservoir. It's a wonderful spot to connect with nature and enjoy the peaceful Colorado landscape.
1
hikers
1.67km
00:27
20m
20m
Embark on the Tombstone Nature Trail for an easy hike through Steamboat Lake State Park, offering scenic views of the lake and the Elkhead Range. This family-friendly loop covers 1.0 miles (1.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 59 feet (18 metres), taking approximately 26 minutes to complete. You will wander through evergreen trees and aspen groves, experiencing vibrant fall colors if you visit during autumn. Look for the memorial stone near the top of the hill, which adds a unique historical touch to your journey.
To start your adventure, head to the end of the Visitor Center parking lot, where the trail conveniently begins. This loop is considered easy, making it a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, accessible outdoor experience. While no specific permits are mentioned for the trail itself, always remember to check Steamboat Lake State Park regulations before your visit to ensure a smooth trip.
The Tombstone Nature Trail is notable for its historical significance, marked by a memorial stone that tells the story of the area's first homesteaders. This poignant detail offers a glimpse into the past, connecting your hike with the rich history of the region. It's a perfect option if you want to combine natural beauty with a touch of local heritage, all within a short and manageable timeframe.
Sign up for free
7
hikers
6.78km
01:48
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.80km
01:56
410m
80m
The Hahns Peak Trail offers a moderate hiking challenge, covering 3.6 miles (5.8 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1359 feet (414 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 55 minutes. As you ascend, the trail takes you through a changing landscape, starting in a cool evergreen forest before opening up to reveal expansive views. Look for the vibrant aspens, especially beautiful in the fall, as you make your way towards the summit. From the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping 360-degree panoramas that include the Elkhorn Mountains and Steamboat Lake.
When planning your visit, be aware that the drive to the trailhead can be demanding, so check road conditions beforehand. While the full ascent is rewarding, the final less-than-quarter-mile section to the peak is highly technical and difficult, involving loose scree on a steep slope. Many hikers choose to end their trek at the saddle just before this challenging part. Consider your comfort level with steep, unstable terrain before attempting the very last push.
This route is located within the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, offering a true mountain experience. A notable feature at the summit is the historic fire lookout tower, which provides a unique landmark and a glimpse into the area's past. The panoramic views from the peak extend to distant landmarks like the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, making this hike a standout for its scenic rewards in the region.
7.12km
02:30
400m
400m
Embark on the Hahns Peak Loop, a moderate hike spanning 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1303 feet (397 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 29 minutes. As you ascend, you'll move through cool evergreen forests that eventually give way to wide-open vistas. The trail culminates at the historic Hahns Peak Lookout, offering panoramic 360-degree views that sweep across the Routt National Forest and Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, extending from the Wyoming border down to Steamboat. From this distinctive volcanic peak, you can clearly see Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake below. If you visit in autumn, the aspen groves along the route burst into vibrant yellow and orange hues, adding another layer of beauty to your journey.
Planning your visit to the Hahns Peak Loop requires some preparation, especially regarding trailhead access. The access roads can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the starting point. It is wise to begin your hike early in the day, particularly to avoid the common afternoon electrical storms, as the summit is quite exposed. Be aware that you will share this route with mountain bikers, motorcyclists, and those on horseback, so stay alert and share the trail respectfully.
The Hahns Peak Loop is notable for its unique geological formation; it's a distinctive volcanic peak that stands out in the landscape. This trail offers one of the best vantage points in the region for expansive views, making it a favorite for those wanting to survey the vastness of the Routt National Forest. The historic lookout at the summit adds a layer of cultural interest to the natural splendor, providing a glimpse into the area's past as a fire watch station. It's a rewarding experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of history.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Pearl Lake Trail starts out very easy to follow but once you get to the Eastern side of the lake it becomes more of an unbeaten path. It is not a loop so you can decide how far you want to go and hike back the way you came.
2
0
Hahns Peak is a very prominent summit near Steamboat Lake State Park, Hahns Peak Lake & Pearl Lake State Park. The funny thing is that the peak, named after a gold miner Joseph Hahn, only is the 1855th highest peak in Colorado stating the immense size and amount of mountains in the state. There is an old Lookout at the top of the peak, which was completely restored in 2016 after falling in despair.
2
0
Scenic campsite within Steamboat Lake State Park. Wake up before sunrise and you will understand why the campground is named for its sunrise vistas. From the campground, you can easily access the Willow Creek Trail in both directions.
2
0
The Tombstone Nature Trail is a short hiking loop in Steamboat Lake State Park near Hahns Peak Village. It offers wonderful lake and Hahns Peak views. The name Tombstone derives from the Wheeler Gravesite along the trail. The Wheelers moved here from the North East Coast, making 243 acres in this area their homestead.
2
0
Pearl Lake is a mountain reservoir at the base of Farwell Mountain. The 167-acre lake lies in Pearl Lake State Park which offers a campground, boat ramps, nature trails west, south, and east of the lake, and many lovely picnic spots.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Pearl Lake State Park?
Hiking in Pearl Lake State Park offers a diverse landscape featuring Pearl Lake itself, surrounded by the Elkhead Mountains. You'll find a mix of lake views, mountain terrain, open spaces, and forested sections, characteristic of a Colorado state park environment.
How many hiking trails are available in Pearl Lake State Park?
Pearl Lake State Park features a selection of hiking routes. Our guide highlights 5 distinct trails, offering various experiences within the park's natural setting.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Pearl Lake State Park?
Yes, Pearl Lake State Park has several easy trails. For instance, the Pearl Lake State Park — Elkhead Mountains, CO route is considered easy, covering 3.5 miles (5.7 km) with minimal elevation gain. Another easy option is the Tombstone Nature Trail Loop in Steamboat Lake State Park — Elkhead Mountains, CO, which is 1.0 mile (1.7 km) long.
Are there any moderate hiking options for those looking for more of a challenge?
Yes, for hikers seeking a moderate challenge, the Hahns Peak Loop — Elkhead Mountains, CO is a great choice. This trail spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and involves a more significant elevation gain of 397 meters, offering a rewarding experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Pearl Lake State Park?
Yes, you can find circular routes in the area. The Hinman Lake loop from Hinman Lake is a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) circular trail that takes you through varied terrain, typically completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Pearl Lake State Park?
The routes in Pearl Lake State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the scenic lake views and the variety of terrain available, from easy paths to more challenging mountain trails.
What is the longest trail available in the Pearl Lake State Park area?
Among the trails highlighted, the Willow Creek Trail is the longest, stretching approximately 7.3 miles (11.8 km). This moderate trail offers an extended hiking experience through the park's natural environment.
Is Pearl Lake State Park suitable for family hikes?
Yes, with a selection of easy trails, Pearl Lake State Park can be suitable for families. Routes like the Tombstone Nature Trail Loop are short and relatively flat, making them good options for outings with children.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pearl Lake State Park?
While specific seasonal details are not provided, Colorado state parks generally offer pleasant hiking conditions from late spring through early fall. During these months, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is conducive to outdoor activities. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Pearl Lake State Park?
Information regarding specific dog policies for Pearl Lake State Park trails is not available in our data. It is always recommended to check the official Pearl Lake State Park website or contact park authorities directly for the most current regulations on pets before planning your hike.
Are there any specific permits or fees required for hiking in Pearl Lake State Park?
As a Colorado State Park, Pearl Lake typically requires a valid park pass for entry. This could be a daily pass or an annual pass. We recommend checking the official Colorado Parks & Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information on fees and permits required for Pearl Lake State Park.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking in Pearl Lake State Park?
Pearl Lake State Park, situated in the Elkhead Mountains, is part of a natural ecosystem. While specific wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, visitors might encounter various birds, small mammals, and potentially larger wildlife native to the Colorado mountains and forests. Always observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb them.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
