This was one of my most favorite hikes to date. We hit the road at 1pm on a Thursday before a holiday weekend, surprisingly traffic wasn’t too bad. Ridgway is close to 6 hours from Denver. If we weren’t chasing the sun, we would have stopped along the way. From mountain ranges to water recreation areas, the drive is breathtaking. 

Once we got to Ridgway, we had to drive down a dirt road for about 8 miles. It’s flat so any vehicle should manage. We came across quite a bit of car campers along the way. At about 7:30pm, we started our hike to Lower Blue Lake. We had about 3.5 miles with 1,600ft of elevation gain to get through before nighttime hit. 

I was a little nervous hiking so close to sunset because I’m terrified of the dark. We had maybe 40lbs of extra weight on our backs with our camping gear which made the elevation gain…fun… I’m so thankful for Chris being as calm and collected as he is. I think I would climb 50 feet and start swearing and gasping for air ha ha. Hiking at sunset is an amazing experience. The colorful sky and quiet trail is the only way I wish to hike. 

The hike to Lower Blue lake is mostly wooded. There were a few pockets to catch a glimpse of the mountains and a stream leading the way. 

Once we got to the lake, we were surrounded by many like-minded people who were staying the night as well. We were able to find a spot, set up our tent and run back towards the lake to enjoy the last few minutes of light. *Camping here does not require a permit…yet… but it could if people abuse the area. Please pack out what you pack in* 

The next morning, we set out for the Upper Blue Lakes. Two creek crossings, and a short, steep climb up and we were there. We enjoyed some amazing views of Lower Blue Lake along the way. We hiked up the switchbacks towards Mt. Sneffels for a better view which was about 4 miles round trip back at our campsite. I’m glad we spent the night because by the time we got back to Lower Blue the lake was packed with hikers. We packed up camp and headed back down to prepare for our next backpacking trip to Ice Lakes which was an hour away. 

Takeaways: 

• It’s a popular hike with no permits so plan for it to be busy
• No trailhead amenities, pack it out 
• Lots of elevation gain, take breaks 
• Primitive camping along the road to trailhead (Sneffels Wilderness)