4.6
(1285)
16,109
hikers
Lake Nighthorse Trail
01:09
4.20km
60m
Hiking
Easy 2.6-mile hike along Lake Nighthorse in Colorado, offering scenic water and mountain views with minimal elevation gain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.10 km
Lake Nighthorse
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
4.20 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.17 km
Surfaces
4.17 km
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Elevation
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Friday 22 May
23°C
6°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Lake Nighthorse Trail?
The trail is located within the Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area. You can access it directly from the recreation area's main entrance, where parking is available. An entrance fee is required to enter the park.
Are there any fees or permits required to access the Lake Nighthorse Trail?
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access the Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area, which includes the trail. No additional hiking permits are typically required beyond the park entrance fee.
Is the Lake Nighthorse Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the trail. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail offers beautiful views year-round. However, due to limited shade, it can get hot during the day in summer. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, and winter hiking is also possible, though conditions may vary.
What is the terrain like on the Lake Nighthorse Trail?
The trail is primarily a wide, well-maintained gravel-surfaced service road. It's largely flat with only a couple of small, gradual elevation gains, making it an easy and accessible path for most.
How long does it typically take to hike the Lake Nighthorse Trail?
The most popular section is a 2.3-mile out-and-back route. This typically takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour and 10 minutes to complete, depending on your pace.
Is this trail suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Its easy difficulty, wide path, and gentle terrain make it very accessible and suitable for families with children and individuals of most fitness levels.
What kind of views can I expect along the trail?
You'll enjoy beautiful views of Lake Nighthorse throughout the entire path. The trail winds along the shoreline, offering serene water vistas, tree-covered hillsides, and distant views of Basin Mountain.
Does the trail offer much shade?
No, the trail has limited shade, especially along the main popular section. It's advisable to bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, particularly on sunny days.
Can I do other activities besides hiking in the Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area?
Yes, the Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area is multi-use. Besides hiking, the trail is also open to bikes and runners. The larger recreation area offers numerous other activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking.
Is the Lake Nighthorse Trail a loop?
The most popular and easily accessible section of the trail is an out-and-back route along the southeastern side of Lake Nighthorse. There isn't a full loop around the entire lake that is part of this specific trail.