An epic dayhike or a relaxing overnight, this 12.4-mile out-and-back starts just east of Vail and ends at a spectacular alpine lake below the jagged peaks of the Gore Range. Start at the Gore Trail Trailhead and follow the creek east. Elevation increases quickly as the trail switchbacks up rocky steps and winds through open forests, occasionally skirting the edge of the creek and landing at an overlook above it just past mile 1.
At mile 4.3, turn left at a 3-way junction for a 1.8-mile climb. Lined at first by dense stands of fir and pine, the trail opens into alpine meadows as it flattens near an altitude of 10,700 feet. Look east and south during meadow stretches for cross-canyon views of Chief and Buffalo mountains before the trail turns west for the final approach to the lake. After a quick 0.5-mile loop around the water, turn back toward the trailhead, or opt to set up camp in one of the established sites below the lake's east side.
-Mapped by Kristy Holland and MacKenzie Ryan
TO TRAILHEAD: I-70 to exit 180. Turn left at Big Horn Rd. and pass under the freeway. Continue 3.1 miles to the Gore Creek Trailhead on the left.
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Gore Lake
| Dist: 12.45 mi |
Points: 1024 |
Calories: none |
| Time: none |
Speed: 0.0 mph |
Pace: 0:00 / mi |
Gore Lake
GOR001
Location: 39.627674°, -106.274931°
There is limited parking and no services at the well-marked trailhead. If the lot is full, there may be more parking available at the campground a few hundred feet up the road on the left. Self-register at the kiosk before hitting the trail.
GOR002
Location: 39.628575°, -106.273217°
Not far from the trailhead, continue straight at a 3-way junction, following the Gore Creek Trail.
GOR003
Location: 39.629342°, -106.258438°
You'll follow the creek as you climb (and even cross a few small streams). But, this rocky cliff above the water offers one of the best trailside views of the churning flow.
GOR004
Location: 39.629896°, -106.251263°
Though the trail mostly climbs, enjoy the short downhill and level flat alongside the river near mile 1.5.
GOR005
Location: 39.626367°, -106.224039°
There are many small stream crossings on the Gore Creek Trail, most have small footbridges to help you stay dry.
GOR006
Location: 39.624850°, -106.205150°
There is a small graveyard marking this junction with the Gore Lake Trail at mile 4.25. Turn left to follow the trail uphill; occasional deadfall may cover the path.
GOR007
Location: 39.633446°, -106.204316°
As you climb, surrounding views of the Gore Range get even more beautiful. You'll pass through meadows and round a rocky hillside as you approach the lake.
GOR008
Location: 39.640954°, -106.207527°
On the east side of the lake there are several established campsites. Minimize impact by camping in established sites at least 200 feet from the water. It's only about 0.5 mile around the lake and the excursion is a worthwhile add-on.
GOR009
Location: 39.642466°, -106.210086°
There is also a campsite on the lake's north side. The site is well-established and in good condition.
Meadows
Location: 39.635024°, -106.202284°
The upper section of the trail passes through several meadows and open areas where you'll spot some of the other area peaks. © Kristy Holland
Trailhead
Location: 39.627668°, -106.274891°
Though the trailhead is easily accessible and obvious from the road; there are no services, so be prepared when you arrive. © Kristy Holland
Signs
Location: 39.628581°, -106.273166°
The major trail junctions on this route are signed, so it's easy to follow the trail. © Kristy Holland
Uphill
Location: 39.629007°, -106.269863°
You'll gain lots of elevation early on as the trail climbs rugged steps and winds uphill alongside Gore Creek. © Kristy Holland
Creek
Location: 39.629348°, -106.258400°
The bird's-eye view of Gore Creek from a rocky trailside overlook. © Kristy Holland
Bridges
Location: 39.628921°, -106.246670°
Most of the creek crossings have bridges, which will help you stay dry. © Kristy Holland
Grave
Location: 39.624863°, -106.205054°
The graves of two early homesteaders mark the junction where the Gore Creek Trail turns north and more sharply uphill. © Kristy Holland
Flowers
Location: 39.642803°, -106.205782°
© Kristy Holland
Gore Lake
Location: 39.640473°, -106.208126°
© Kristy Holland
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