Linkins Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do at Linkins Lake in Pitkin County, Colorado. In the summer, the lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the area, perfect for exploring the stunning mountain scenery. In the winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a Mecca for ice skating and ice fishing. sledding is also a popular activity, and there are several slopes in the area that are perfect for beginners and experts alike. No matter what time of year it is, there's always something to do at Linkins Lake.

Linkins Lake is a small alpine lake located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The lake is situated at an elevation of 9,950 feet (3,040 meters), and is surrounded by high mountain peaks. Linkins Lake was first discovered by Euro-American settlers in the late 1800s, and quickly became a popular destination for fishing and camping. Today, the lake is still a popular recreation spot, and is also known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities. The area around Linkins Lake is rich in history, and many of the early settlers’ homes and cabins can still be seen in the area. The lake is named after one of the early homesteaders, James Linkins, who built a cabin near the lake in 1882.Linkins Lake is a beautiful reflection of Colorado’s natural history, and continues to be a popular spot for both residents and visitors alike.

The best time to visit Linkins Lake in Pitkin County, Colorado is during the summer months. The temperatures are warm, but not too hot, and the days are long. The scenery is also stunning, with the Rocky Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. 

1. Start planning your trip well in advance to ensure you get the dates you want. The peak season for Linkins Lake is June through August, so book early if you plan to visit during those months.
2. Linkins Lake is located in Pitkin County, Colorado, about 12 miles south of Aspen. The nearest airport is Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE), which is served by several major airlines.
3. There are a limited number of hotels in the area, so again, it's important to book early if you're visiting during peak season. You can also look into camping options if you don't mind roughing it a bit.
4. hike up one of the many trails that weave their way through the woods surrounding Linkins Lake. Or, if you're feeling more ambitious, embark on a multi-day backpacking trip through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area.
5. Linkins Lake sits at an elevation of 9,580 feet, so visitors should be prepared for high altitudes and potential altitude sickness..Make sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy for the first few days until you've acclimated to the thin air.
6. Finally, remember that Linkins Lake is a wilderness area - please respect the rules and regulations in place to protect this special place..And most importantly, have fun!

1. Linkins Lake is a natural lake, formed by glaciers hundreds of years ago in Pitkin County, Colorado.
2. The lake is named after John Linkins, an early settler in the area.
3. Linkins Lake is home to a variety of fish, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout.
4. The Linkins Lake Trail circles the entire lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 
5. In the winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. 
6. Linkins Lake is a popular destination for photography enthusiasts due to its scenic location and abundant wildlife.

The maximum time required to explore the entire lake is approximately six hours. However, depending on your level of fitness and the amount of time you want to spend taking in the scenery, it is possible to complete the hike in a shorter amount of time. 

To reach Linkins Lake in Pitkin County, Colorado, begin by traveling north on Highway 82 from Aspen. After about 10 miles, you will see a sign for Linkins Lake Road on the left. Turn onto this road and follow it for another 2 miles until you reach the lake. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Linkins Lake in Pitkin County, Colorado. However, there are some restrictions on activities that are allowed in the area. For instance, swimming and camping are not allowed in the reserve. Additionally, all visitors must stay on designated trails and obey all posted signs.

The lake is open all year round, and the hours vary depending on the season. In summer, the Lake is open from 8 Am to 8 PM, and in winter, the hours are 9 Am to 5 PM.