Hermit Lake - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Hermit Lake

Hermit Lake is an isolated body of water, located way up at 11,314 feet in elevation west of Westcliffe, Colorado. Hermit Lake is found within the San Isabel National Forest and can be accessed via a short out & back trail. It is a moderately trafficked destination because of its incredibly scenic alpine atmosphere. It is found in Custer County, tucked in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains north of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

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Attractions Near Hermit Lake

Hermit Pass

Hermit Pass

2.26km from Hermit Lake

Hermit Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3.986m above the sea level, located in Custer County, in the U.S. state of Colorado. It's one of the highest roads of Colorado. It is recommended that beginner riders avoid this road. The route demands 100% concentration.

San Isabel Lake

San Isabel Lake

2.93km from Hermit Lake

San Isabel Lake is a reservoir in Saguache County, Colorado. The lake is located in the San Isabel National Forest, and is used for recreation, including camping, fishing, boating, and picnicking. The lake has a capacity of 32,000 acre-feet, and is fed by the Culebra River. The dam that impounds the lake is operated by the United States Forest Service. San Isabel Lake is also a popular destination for bird watching, as it is home to a variety of waterfowl.

Spread Eagle Peak

Spread Eagle Peak

4.31km from Hermit Lake

Spread Eagle Peak is ranked the 306th highest peak in Colorado and towers over the beautiful Lakes of the Clouds basin. The peak dominates the western skyline while approaching the Gibson Creek trailhead from Westcliffe. It's close proximity to the Wet Mountain Valley makes it a nice dayhike with less crowds or a great winter climb.

Lake of the Clouds

Lake of the Clouds

5.43km from Hermit Lake

The lake is situated in a valley between two ridges in the Porcupine Mountains. Surrounded by virgin wilderness and stunning vistas, the lake is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and fishermen. The lake is a prominent feature of the park, and can be viewed at the Lake of the Clouds Overlook at the west terminus of the former Michigan highway. The state park occasionally hosts a nighttime sky watch at the lake.

Horn Peak Trailhead

Horn Peak Trailhead

6.77km from Hermit Lake

The Horn Creek Trailhead is located near Horn Creek Ranch southwest of the town of Westcliffe. To get to the trailhead, drive south from Westcliffe on SH-69 and turn right on Schoolfield Road after ~3 miles. Go a mile west on Schoolfield and then turn left on Macey Lane and head south for 2 miles. Turn right on Horn Road and head west to Horn Creek Ranch, which is reached after ~3.5 miles. At the ranch, turn right at a signed junction and reach the Horn Creek TH after .25 miles

North Crestone Lake

North Crestone Lake

8.05km from Hermit Lake

North Crestone Lake is a gorgeous body of water located in Saguache County. The lake is situated at an elevation of 11,950 feet, making it one of the highest lakes in the state. It is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and its shores are dotted with trees and wildflowers. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including cutthroat trout, brook trout, and grayling. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and camping in the area. North Crestone Lake is a beautiful spot for a summer getaway.

Discover More Attractions in Custer County, Home of Hermit Lake

Custer County

Custer County

22 attractions

Custer County is a county located in the U.S. state of Colorado. A large percentage of the county is National Forest land in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the west side and in the Wet Mountains on the east. The only lake of size is the DeWeese Reservoir in the north end of the Wet Mountain Valley.

Location of Hermit Lake

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For more information about Hermit Lake, visit: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/hermit-lake-trail?u=m