North Crestone Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, the lake is surrounded by towering peaks and offers stunning views. It's also a great place to enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Hiking trails wind around the lake and into the surrounding mountains, providing access to a variety of scenery. Fishing is also popular at North Crestone Lake, and anglers can cast their lines from the shore or from a boat. For those looking to cool off, swimming and paddling are both great options. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day on the water, North Crestone Lake is sure to offer something for everyone.

In the late 1800s, prospectors began to settle in the San Luis Valley in search of gold and other minerals. One of these prospectors, D.C. Duncan, decided to build a cabin near a small lake that he had discovered in the southern part of the valley. He named the lake North Crestone Lake, after the nearby Crestone peak. Over the next few years, Duncan and other settlers began to establish homesteads in the area. The community that developed around North Crestone Lake became known as Duncan Park. In the early 1900s, the Dunkard Mining Company built a sawmill near Duncan Park, providing jobs for many of the residents. The sawmill operated for several years before it was destroyed by a fire. Today, North Crestone Lake is a popular recreation spot for locals and visitors alike. Thanks to its history as a mining town, Duncan Park has a unique character that sets it apart from other communities in Colorado.

The best time to visit is from late June to early September when the weather is warm and the flowers are in bloom. during this time, the trail around the lake is open and the views are incredible. From late September to mid-October, the aspen trees turn a brilliant gold, making for a stunning hikes. However, winter can also be a magical time at North Crestone Lake, with the blanket of snow transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. 

1. The lake is only accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles; if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle, you'll need to hike in from one of the nearby trailheads.
2. There are no developed campgrounds at the lake, so be prepared to backpack in and set up your own campsite.
3. Although there are no formal boat launch sites, you can hand-launch a canoe or kayak from several spots around the shoreline.
4. Fishing is allowed with a valid Colorado fishing license; common catches include rainbow trout and cutthroat trout.
5. There is no cell service at the lake, so make sure to let someone know where you're going before you head out.
6. The altitude can take some time to get used to; if you're not acclimated, be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy during your first day or two at the lake.
7. Take advantage of the silence. One of the best things about North Crestone Lake is its isolation from the hustle and bustle of daily life. So take some time to disconnect from technology and just enjoy the peace and quiet.

1. Crestone Lake is situated at an elevation of 10,500 feet, making it one of the highest lakes in the state.
2. It is fed by several small streams, including Willow Creek and South Fork Crestone Creek.
3. The lake is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which provide stunning views and it is known for its abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
4.  The lake is also a popular destination for bird watching, as it is home to a variety of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and herons.

The maximum time required to explore Crestone Lake is three days. In this amount of time, you can hike to your heart's content, fish in the pristine waters, and enjoy the company of the friendly locals. Three days is just enough time to fall in love with Crestone Lake and all it has to offer.

There are several ways to reach the lake. The most direct route is to take Highway 17 south from the town of Saguache. The highway turns into a dirt road after about 10 miles, and the lake will be visible on the left after another mile or so. Alternatively, Crestone Lake can be reached by taking Highway 285 east from the town of Center. After about 15 miles, turn onto County Road T and follow it for about 5 miles. Crestone Lake will be on the right. Finally, Crestone Lake can also be accessed from the north via Highway 112. From the town of Moffat, take Highway 112 east for about 20 miles until it reaches County Road 1A. Turn south on 1A and follow it for about 4 miles until you reach the lake. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Crestone Lake, Saguache County, Colorado. However, there is a small daily usage fee for camping and picnicking in the area. This fee helps to cover the costs of maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the lake and its surrounding areas. 

The lake is open all year round and has a number of activities to keep everyone amused.