Clear Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Clear Lake

Clear Lake is a small, natural lake located in San Juan County, Colorado. The lake is fed by several small creeks and springs, and it is surrounded by evergreen trees and meadows. Clear Lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and hiking, and it is also home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and birds. The lake is located at an elevation of 9,600 feet, and it has a maximum depth of 30 feet. clear water that reflects the mountains and sky.

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Things to Do at Clear Lake

Clear Lake is a man-made reservoir located in San Juan County, Colorado. The lake is surrounded by mountains, and it offers stunning views of the nearby snow-capped peaks. Clear Lake is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking. There are several trails that wind around the lake, and anglers can fish for trout, bass, and perch. In addition to its natural beauty, Clear Lake is also home to a number of historical sites. The area around the lake was once inhabited by the Ute tribe, and there are several petroglyphs that can be seen on the rocks near the shore. Clear Lake is a truly unique place, and it offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors or learn about the area's history, Clear Lake is sure to please.

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History of Clear Lake

Clear Lake is a natural freshwater lake in San Juan County, Colorado. The lake is located at an elevation of 10,200 feet (3,100 m) and has a Surface area of ​​approximately 1.4 square miles (3.6 km2). Clear Lake is the headwaters of the Animas River and is part of the San Juan National Forest. The lake was formed by glacial activity during the Pleistocene epoch and is surrounded by mountains that reach altitudes of over 14,000 feet (4,300 m). The highest peak in the vicinity of the lake is Mount Sneffels, which rises to an elevation of 14,150 feet (4,310 m). The first recorded exploration of Clear Lake was by Ute Indians in 1873. The lake was named for its crystal-clear water, which remains one of its most distinguishing features. In 1874, a party led by Frederick Hayden became the first recorded group of Euro-Americans to visit the lake. Hayden's party was exploring the San Juan Mountains for minerals and other natural resources. Over the next few years, prospectors and hunters visited the area with increasing frequency. With the establishment of the San Juan National Forest in 1903, Clear Lake became part of a large protected area. Today, Clear Lake is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking. It is also a popular location for photography and birdwatching. The clear water and mountainous setting make it a picturesque spot that draws visitors from all over Colorado and beyond.

Best Time to Visit Clear Lake

The best time to visit Clear Lake is from late June to early September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying all the lake has to offer. 

Tips for Visiting Clear Lake

  1. Book your accommodation early. Hotels and campsites around the lake fill up quickly during peak season.
  2. If you're camping, make sure to bring enough supplies, including food, water, and a first-aid kit.
  3. Hiking is a great way to explore the area around the lake. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring a map.
  4. Fishing is another popular activity at Clear Lake. A Colorado fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 16.
  5. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities on the lake. Life jackets are mandatory for all paddlers.
  6. campfires are allowed in designated areas only, so be sure to check with the ranger station before lighting one.
  7. mountain biking is allowed on some trails but not others - again, check with the ranger station for details.
  8.  please respect private property boundaries and do not trespass.  Bear activity has been reported in the area, so take precautions - storing food properly and making noise while hiking - to avoid an encounter.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Clear Lake

  1. Clear Lake is the highest natural lake in North America at an elevation of 12,709 feet. It is also the largest high altitude lake in the United States with a surface area of nearly 48 square miles.
  2. The lake is located within the San Juan National Forest and is part of the Rio Grande watershed. The average depth of Clear Lake is just over 26 feet, but it reaches a maximum depth of nearly 60 feet.
  3. Clear Lake was formed approximately 10,000 years ago by glacial activity in the San Juan Mountains.
  4. The lake gets its name from its clear mountain water which remains at a consistent temperature throughout the year.
  5. Clear Lake is part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, which is designated as a National Scenic Byway.
  6. In the winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular destination for ice fishing and cross-country skiing.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Clear Lake

However, given its size, it's impossible to explore the entire lake in just one day. For that reason, visitors should plan on spending at least two days exploring all that Clear Lake has to offer.

How to Reach Clear Lake

To reach Clear Lake in San Juan County, Colorado, travel west on Highway 50 from the town of Montrose. The lake is located approximately 30 miles from town, just past the turnoff for Blue Mesa Reservoir. From Montrose, the drive takes about an hour. The road to Clear Lake is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles. However, in winter months the road may be icy and snow-packed, so use caution when driving. 

Entrance Fee of Clear Lake

There is no entrance fee to explore Clear Lake, San Juan County, Colorado. However, there are several campsites located around the lake that charge a daily or weekly fee for use. These fees help to cover the costs of maintaining the campsites and providing amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables.

Opening Hours of Clear Lake

The Clear Lake is open year-round from 8:00 AM to sunset. Be aware  and updated of the climatic conditions of the area. 

Attractions Near Clear Lake

Ulysses S. Grant Peak

Ulysses S. Grant Peak

1.82km from Clear Lake

Ulysses S. Grant Peak is the highest point in San Juan County, Colorado. The peak is located in the San Juan Mountains, just south of the town of Silverton. The peak was named for Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. Grant served as Commanding General of the Union Army during the American Civil War and was later elected President. The peak has an elevation of 14,093 feet and is located in the federally-designated Weminuche Wilderness Area.

Fuller Lake

Fuller Lake

3.61km from Clear Lake

Fuller Lake is a man-made body of water created in the early 1900s by damming the Fuller River. The lake is used for irrigation and recreation, and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. The Fuller River flows into the lake from the north, and out of the south end of the lake. The lake is located in a canyon, and has steep cliffs on its north and south sides. There are several campgrounds and picnic areas along the shores of the lake, as well as a boat launch.

Lookout Peak

Lookout Peak

3.97km from Clear Lake

Lookout Peak is a mountain and the highest point in the Lizard Head Wilderness and is located in the San Juan Mountains. The peak is named for its views of the surrounding area, which include the towns of Telluride and Rico. Lookout Peak is accessible via a hiking trail that begins at the top of Dunton Road. The trail is approximately 3.5 miles long and gains over 2,000 feet in elevation. It is considered to be a moderate to difficult hike, depending on fitness level and experience.

Golden Horn

Golden Horn

4.16km from Clear Lake

The Golden Horn is a mountain peak in the San Miguel county of Colorado. Standing at an elevation of 12,943 feet, it is the highest point in the state. The peak is located in the San Juan National forest and is part of the Weminuche Wilderness. The Golden Horn gets its name from its golden-hued cliffs, which attract climbers from all over the world. In addition to its stunning views, the peak is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep and elk.

Fuller Peak

Fuller Peak

4.6km from Clear Lake

Fuller Peak is a mountain in San Juan County, Colorado. It is located in the San Juan Mountains, west of the town of Silverton. The peak is named for geologist John C. Fuller, who surveyed the area in the late 19th century. Fuller Peak is a popular destination for hiking and backpacking, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The peak is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Vermilion Peak

Vermilion Peak

4.79km from Clear Lake

Vermilion Peak is a mountain in San Miguel County. It is the highest point in the Chicago Basin, and is part of the San Juan Mountains. The mountain was named for its reddish-brown color, which is caused by iron oxide in the rocks. The summit of Vermilion Peak can be reached via a trail that leads from the Needle Creek Trailhead. The trail is approximately eight miles long, and takes most hikers about four to five hours to complete.

Discover More Attractions in San Juan County, Home of Clear Lake

San Juan County

San Juan County

29 attractions

San Juan County, located in the southwest corner of Colorado, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to several popular National Parks and Monuments, including Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Hovenweep National Monument. In addition, the San Juan Mountains offer ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Thanks to its abundant natural beauty, San Juan County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado. In fact, the county w

Location of Clear Lake

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