Fryingpan Lakes - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Fryingpan Lakes is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles. In addition, the lakes are a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic overlooks. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Fryingpan Lakes is sure to offer something for everyone.

The Fryingpan Lakes are a system of high-altitude lakes in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. They are located in the White River National Forest, on the eastern slope of the Continental Divide. The lakes are named for their shape, which resembles a frying pan. The largest and deepest of the lakes is Roberts Lake, which has a depth of nearly 100 feet (30 meters). The other lakes in the system include Green Lake, Blue Lake, and Red Lake. All of the lakes are glacially-fed and have a clear, greenish-blue color. The Fryingpan Lakes are popular among anglers and hikers, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The history of the Fryingpan Lakes dates back to the early days of exploration in the Rocky Mountains. In 1873, two prospectors discovered gold in one of the tributaries of the Roaring Fork River. This sparked a gold rush in the area, and many miners came to try their luck at striking it rich. However, most of them left empty-handed and the area soon returned to its quiet state. Today, the Fryingpan Lakes are cherished by locals and visitors alike for their natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

The best time to visit Fryingpan Lakes is in the summer months, when the weather is warm and the snow has melted off of the trails. However, visitors should be aware that the lakes can be crowded on weekends and holidays. 

1. Pack for all weather conditions. The climate in Colorado can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for anything.
2. Bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no convenience stores or restaurants within the park boundaries, so it's important to pack enough food and drink to last the day.
3. Wear comfortable shoes. hiking boots or other sturdy shoes are recommended, as the terrain can be uneven in places.
4. Stay on marked trails. Venturing off-trail can damage fragile ecosystems and put you at risk of getting lost.
5. Please clean up after yourself and your pet if you bring one along. There are trash cans and dog-waste bags throughout the park for your convenience.
6. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. There are many dangers in the wilderness, from slippery rocks to steep drop-offs. Pay attention to where you're walking and take care not to fall or hurt yourself in any other way.
7. Stick to the trails. Don't go off-roading or try to shortcut your way through the wilderness. Not only is this bad for the environment, but it can also be dangerous for you as well.
8. Remember that cell phones don't work in most of the park, so don't rely on them for communication or navigation purposes. It's always best to be prepared before you go, so that you can enjoy your visit to Fryingpan Lakes worry-free!

1. The largest of the three lakes, Lower Fryingpan Lake, covers an area of approximately 447 acres.
2. The middle lake, named Shadow Mountain Lake, is the deepest of the three, with a maximum depth of nearly 60 feet.
3. The third and smallest lake is Upper Fryingpan Lake, which covers an area of just under 90 acres.
4. All three lakes are part of the White River National Forest and are surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
5. The dam helps to regulate water flows in the Roaring Fork River and provides hydroelectric power for the area.
6. The Fryingpan Lakes were formed over 10,000 years ago by glaciers that carved out depressions in the bedrock. Today, the lakes are fed by snowmelt and rainfall runoff from the surrounding mountains. The average depth of the lakes ranges from 20 to 30 feet.
7. Hiking trails wind around all three lakes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. Camping is also allowed in certain areas around the lakes.
    

However, visitors should be aware that the area is large and varied, so it is advisable to allow at least a day or two to explore all that it has to offer.

The best way to reach Fryingpan Lakes is by car. The lakes are situated just off of Highway 82, about halfway between the town of Aspen and the city of Glenwood Springs. There are several parking areas along the highway, and a small trail leads from the highway to the lakes. 

The entrance fee for Fryingpan Lakes is $5 per person per day. 

. The area is open to the public from dawn to dusk and offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.