Trout Lake
A high alpine lake below Lizard Head Pass, reflecting snowy peaks and an old railway trestle; aspens ring the lake in autumn, making it a classic stop along Highway 145.
Trout Lake lies about 20 km south of Telluride at roughly 2,960 meters, with snowy peaks such as Vermilion Peak and Sheep Mountain behind it. The lakeshore preserves the wooden trestle of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad from the 1890s (Trout Lake Trestle), once the route of the famous “Galloping Goose” rail cars. In summer you can fish and paddle a kayak. In late September, when the aspens around the lake turn gold, it becomes a photography hotspot. It is reached by driving Highway 145 and is often combined with Lizard Head Pass and the town of Ophir for a half-day scenic drive.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Lizard Head Pass
- Alta Lakes & Alta Ghost Town
- Mountain Village
- Bear Creek Trail & Falls
- Telluride Ski Resort
- Telluride Gondola
- Telluride Town Park
- Sheridan Opera House