Kite Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Kite Lake is a beautiful spot for a day hike or a longer camping trip. There are several easy trails that wind through the woods and offer stunning views of the neighboring mountains. The lake itself is perfect for swimming or fishing, and there are also plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. In addition, Kite Lake is situated close to several 14,000-foot peaks, making it an ideal starting point for mountaineering excursions. 

Kite Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in Park County, Colorado. The lake is situated at an elevation of 12,500 feet, and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Kite Lake has a long and rich history. The first people to settle in the area were the Ute Native Americans. They used the lake as a summer camp and hunting ground. In the late 1800s, settlers began to move into the area, and a town called Alma was established. Alma quickly became a popular destination for tourists, who came to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. Today, Kite Lake is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 

Anytime between June and September is generally a good time to visit, as the weather is usually mild and there are many activities to enjoy. 

1. Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly at high altitudes, so it's important to dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed.
2. Pack plenty of water: You'll need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at altitude. aim for at least one gallon per person per day.
3. Watch for wildlife: Kite Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and snakes. Be sure to keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter.
4. Leave no trace: When you pack out your trash, pick up any litter you see along the way. We all have a responsibility to keep our public lands clean!
5. Know your limits: Kite Lake is located at an elevation of 12,400 feet, which can pose challenges for those who are not accustomed to high altitudes. If you start to feel ill, it's important to descend to lower elevations as soon as possible. Don't push yourself beyond your limits!
6. While there are several trails around the lake, they can be challenging so be sure you're up for a hike before you head out.
7. Fishing is allowed in Kite Lake, but you'll need a Colorado fishing license first.
8. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk. Please use caution if you do decide to swim.
    

1. Kite Lake is one of the highest lakes in Colorado, and its elevation makes it a popular destination for climbers and hikers.
2. The lake is known for its clear water and stunning views. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Pike's Peak.

3. Kite Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of fish. The area around Kite Lake is popular for camping, picnicking, and hiking.

4.  In addition to being a popular spot for recreation, Kite Lake has also been used for scientific research. It was the site of a study on altitude sickness in humans in the early 1900s.

5. Kite Lake is also a popular destination for rock climbers, as it offers several challenging routes to the summit of 14,265-foot Mount Democrat. 

6.  In 1873, a group of prospectors discovered gold in the area around Kite Lake and staked their claim on what became known as the Democrat Mine. 

7. Today, Kite Lake is owned by the City of Denver and managed by the Denver Mountain Parks system. 
    

The maximum time required to explore Kite Lake is dependent on the individual's fitness level and desired level of difficulty. For those looking for a challenge, the trails can be completed in 6-8 hours. However, most hikers will take 8-10 hours to complete the loop.

If you're traveling by car, take Highway 285 south from Denver until you reach Fairplay. From there, take County Road 18 southwest for approximately 14 miles until you reach Kite Lake. If you're looking for a more scenic route, hop on the Colorado Trail, which runs from Denver to Durango and passes right by Kite Lake. 

The entrance fee for Kite Lake in Park County, Colorado is $3.00 per person or $5.00 per vehicle. 

Kite Lake is open year-round from dawn to dusk. But the time may vary depending on the season.