Saint Kevin's Lake Trail

The Saint Kevin's Lake Trail is located in the Holy Cross Wilderness near Leadville, Colorado. Accessing the trailhead may require a high-clearance vehicle due to dirt roads with rocky and steep sections. There is a designated 4wd parking area available.

This trail is generally considered difficult, especially for jogging, due to significant elevation gain and high altitude. It has a physical rating of "hard" and includes rocky areas and sections where the path may be less defined. Some parts are highly technical, requiring sure-footedness and sturdy shoes. It's best suited for experienced joggers with good fitness and potentially acclimatization to high elevations.

You'll experience classic high-country Colorado scenery, including shady pine forests, open meadows, and rocky sections. The route offers glimpses of surrounding peaks and the Arkansas Valley. As you approach the lake, the views become more dramatic, with snow-dusted rocky cliffs and granite walls. The destination, Saint Kevin Lake, is a bright, blue alpine lake set within a beautiful cirque.

As the trail is located within the Holy Cross Wilderness, dogs are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out pet waste.

The best time to jog the Saint Kevin's Lake Trail is typically during the summer months when wildflowers are abundant and snow has melted from the higher elevations. The trail is at a high altitude, so conditions can change rapidly, and winter conditions can persist well into late spring or early summer.

Generally, there are no permits or fees required for day use or overnight backpacking in the Holy Cross Wilderness. However, it's always wise to check the latest regulations with the local Forest Service office before your trip, as rules can change.

The Saint Kevin's Lake Trail is approximately 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles) long and involves significant elevation gain. For jogging, it typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.

The trail's main highlight is the pristine Saint Kevin Lake itself, a secluded alpine lake at nearly 12,000 feet. The route also offers the opportunity to visit nearby Bear Lake. The trail is known for its solitude and being "a bit off the beaten path," providing a peaceful escape.

Yes, the route partially overlaps with several other trails. Approximately 45% of the route follows sections of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 4, the CDT - Colorado Section, the Colorado Trail, and the Colorado Trail Seg. 9 Tennessee Pass to Hagerman Pass Road. It also shares parts with the Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 9).

The trail reaches just under 12,000 feet elevation, which significantly contributes to its difficulty. It's crucial to be well-hydrated, consider acclimatizing to the altitude if you're coming from lower elevations, and be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness. Start slowly and listen to your body.