Easy hikes and walks around St. Mary's
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Easy hiking trails around St. Mary's offer opportunities to explore a landscape characterized by lakes and varied terrain. The region features routes that traverse natural areas, providing accessible outdoor experiences. St. Mary's location for hiking includes paths suitable for different activity levels, with several easy options available.
Best easy hiking trails around St. Mary's
- The most popular easy hiking route is Tom Bennhoff Lake Trail, a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete. Thisโฆ
Last updated: August 3, 2026
5.0
(1)
29
hikers
2.38km
00:40
40m
40m
The Tom Bennhoff Lake Trail offers a delightful, easy loop around Georgetown Lake, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll follow a wide, mostly flat gravel path that meanders through charmingโฆ
1
hikers
3.54km
01:05
130m
130m
The Loch Lomond & Upper Lakes Trail loop offers a fantastic taste of Colorado's high country without demanding an entire day. You'll traverse a mix of primitive paths and aโฆ
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4.21km
01:27
230m
230m
If you're looking for a quick escape into Colorado's high country with a big scenic reward, the Chinns Lake Trail is a solid choice. This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hikingโฆ
776m
00:13
10m
10m
The Moose and Lake Loop offers a delightful, accessible escape into nature, perfect for when you need a quick refresh. This easy 0.5-mile (0.8 km) hiking route, located within Alvaradoโฆ
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
4.53km
01:21
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is a large gravel lot here right on the shore of Loch Lomond which provides access to the the trails around the numerous alpine lakes in the area. You can also access James Peak via a connector from the Upper Lakes trail. If your vehicle can't make it up the gravel road you can always park at the bottom and run up.
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This section of trail goes to the upper lakes. Directly above Loch Lomond is Ohman Lake, and Reynolds Lake (with Ice Lake even further up the basin). Once the trail to the lakes finally thaws out, this becomes an extremely popular and beautiful spring and summer trail.
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Loch Lomond is a mountain lake in the high forests of Colorado. There are actually several lakes in the area, and they are all interconnected, with Loch Lomond being the lowest and the largest. The area is open to cars, bikers, and hikers so you can plan for crowds during the warmer months.
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The Upper and Lower Chinns Reservoirs are two small coves right next to each other at 11,100 feet. The lakes are rich in mining history with the remains of a few structures still intact. There is also quite a bit of dispersed camping around the lakes on the edge of the forest.
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This section of trail goes to the upper lakes. Directly above Loch Lomond is Ohman Lake, and Reynolds Lake (with Ice Lake even further up the basin). Once the trail to the lakes finally thaws out, this becomes an extremely popular and beautiful spring and summer trail.
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Loch Lomond is a mountain lake in the high forests of Colorado. There are actually several lakes in the area, and they are all interconnected, with Loch Lomond being the lowest and the largest. The area is open to cars, bikers, and hikers so you can plan for crowds during the warmer months.
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The Upper and Lower Chinns Reservoirs are two small coves right next to each other at 11,100 feet. The lakes are rich in mining history with the remains of a few structures still intact. There is also quite a bit of dispersed camping around the lakes on the edge of the forest.
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Alvarado Open Space Park is a lightly used park even though it's super accessible. Clear creek runs through the park and both of the trails have bridges crossing the water. This creek acts more like a river, and the water will be roaring in the spring and summer months.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around St. Mary's?
There are 4 easy hiking trails available around St. Mary's, offering accessible outdoor experiences through varied terrain and lake-side paths.
What makes the easy hiking trails around St. Mary's unique?
The easy hiking trails in St. Mary's are characterized by their beautiful lake views and natural landscapes. Many routes traverse areas around alpine lakes, providing serene and picturesque settings for a relaxed hike.
Are there any easy loop trails in St. Mary's?
Yes, St. Mary's offers several easy loop trails. A popular option is the Loch Lomond & Upper Lakes Trail loop, which provides views of multiple lakes. Another is the Moose and Lake Loop, a shorter option perfect for a quick scenic walk.
What is the average duration for an easy hike in St. Mary's?
Easy hikes in St. Mary's typically range from 40 minutes to about 1 hour 30 minutes. For example, the Tom Bennhoff Lake Trail takes approximately 40 minutes, while the Chinns Lake Trail can be completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
Are there easy trails suitable for families with children?
Yes, the easy trails around St. Mary's are generally suitable for families. Routes like the Tom Bennhoff Lake Trail are relatively short with gentle elevation changes, making them ideal for younger hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Many trails in the St. Mary's area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash, especially on less strenuous paths.
What scenic viewpoints or natural attractions can I see along the easy hiking trails?
Along the easy trails, you can enjoy views of several beautiful lakes and natural features. Highlights include Saint Mary's Lake, Loch Lomond, and Lower Forest Lake. Some trails also offer glimpses of distant peaks like James Peak and Mount Flora.
Is parking available near the easy trailheads?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. For popular spots like St. Mary's Glacier (which is near some of these easy trails), there are often designated parking areas, though they may require a fee and can fill up quickly during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in St. Mary's?
The best time for easy hiking in St. Mary's is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, trails are generally clear of snow, and the weather is mild. Fall offers stunning foliage, while summer provides lush greenery and wildflowers.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the easy hiking trails?
While the immediate trailheads are often in natural, undeveloped areas, nearby towns like Idaho Springs or Georgetown offer various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, where you can refuel before or after your hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in St. Mary's?
The easy hiking trails in St. Mary's are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the accessibility of the trails, and the peaceful natural environment.
Are there any less crowded easy walks in St. Mary's?
To find less crowded easy walks, consider visiting during weekdays or earlier in the morning. While popular routes like those near St. Mary's Glacier can get busy, exploring some of the slightly less known lake loops might offer a more tranquil experience.
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