Lake of the Clouds - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Brush Creek Lakes are two of the largest lakes in the Sangre de Cristo Range, and the fishing can be good.The lakes are situated right on the edge of timberline in a picturesque alpine cirque just east of Thirsty Peak and Lakes Peak.

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