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Chicago Lakes

Trip

Ascending Hikes – Chicago Lakes

This is an Ascending hike for women to the Chicago Lakes near Georgetown, CO. The trail is a ~9‑mile round‑trip trek through Echo Lake Park, past Idaho Springs Reservoir and ascending roughly 2,100 ft into a glacial cirque with two alpine lakes surrounded by beautiful peaks in the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness!

Contacts

Lauren Barden
Lauren Barden
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 9.4 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft

This is an Ascending hike for women and non-binary friends who are looking to challenge themselves in good company. We’ll take on a beautiful alpine route through the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness, ending at the stunning Chicago Lakes just outside of Georgetown, CO. Expect breathtaking views, meaningful connection, and space to push yourself at your own pace.

Ascending trips are about community, growth, and getting outside together—so whether you’re building confidence or just craving the mountains, this hike is for you.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you!

We’ll meet bright and early on Saturday morning at 6:00 AM at the Wooly Mammoth Park-n-Ride, with a planned departure of 6:15 AM. From there, we’ll carpool along I-70 toward Echo Lake, arriving at the trailhead after about a 45-minute drive.

The hike itself is approximately 9 miles round-trip with just about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Expect a mix of forested paths, open views, and alpine lakes nestled in a stunning glacial cirque. We'll take breaks along the way for water, snacks, and photos—no rush, just steady, supported progress.

After returning to the trailhead, there will be an optional stop for food before heading back to Denver.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your trip leader—we’re here to support you!

Route/Place

Chicago Lakes

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Please come prepared with the Ten Essentials for safety and comfort in changing mountain conditions:

  1. Navigation – map, compass, or GPS (can be a downloaded trail map on your phone)

  2. Sun protection – sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm

  3. Insulation – an extra layer (it can get chilly at higher elevations)

  4. Illumination – headlamp or flashlight

  5. First aid supplies

  6. Fire – lighter or waterproof matches

  7. Repair kit and tools – small multi-tool or knife

  8. Nutrition – snacks and lunch

  9. Hydration – at least 2 liters of water

  10. Emergency shelter – space blanket or lightweight tarp

Additional suggestions:

  • Comfortable hiking shoes or boots

  • Trekking poles (optional but helpful for elevation)

  • Rain jacket or windbreaker

  • Hat and gloves (yes, even in summer!)

  • Small backpack

  • Personal medications

Trip Reports