Trip
Hiking – Forest Lakes
Experience the scenic wonder of Forest Lakes in the James Peak Wilderness before winter fully sets in. We'll start at the East Portal at 9,237 feet elevation, hike along S Boulder Creek and then climb steadily through heavy forest until reaching Lower Forest Lake with views of the Continental Divide. Conditions permitting, we'll move on to Upper Forest Lake at 10,878.
Contacts
- Thu, Nov 5, 2026
- Denver
- Hiking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Mileage: 7.6 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,778 ft
- High Point Elevation: 10,878 ft
- Pace: ~2.0 mph
- 7 (8 capacity)
- 1 (2 capacity)
- Mon, Oct 26, 2026 at 7:30 PM
- Tue, Nov 3, 2026 at 5:00 PM
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
This is an in-and-out hike along a good, established trail. Be prepared for variable weather at this time of year as conditions can change quickly.
On November 5, 2026, all primary big-game rifle seasons (deer and elk) are completely closed in the James Peak Wilderness. This date falls squarely into the multi-day seasonal split between the Second Rifle Season (which ends November 1) and the Third Rifle Season (which begins November 7). Hunting is permitted though for several small game, waterfowl, and furbearer species.
CMC Basecamp, Golden CO at 7:00AM with planned departure at 7:15AM. If meeting at the East Portal, plan on being there no later than 8:30AM.
Required Equipment
Dress in layers, warm clothing and footgear appropriate for an all-day hike on established trails in Colorado. Bring 10 Essentials appropriate for this hike, including sun and wind protection, gloves/mittens, a warm hat and jacket, 2 liters of H2O & food. Please bring traction devices in the event of ice or snow on the trail. If concerned about potential hunting activity, wear your bright colors.