LOST LAKE: Road & Route Closed in Winter. A BEGINNER-FRIENDLY HIKE WITH BEAUTIFUL VIEWS, LOCATED LESS THAN 30 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN BUENA VISTA. THIS HIKE IS GREAT FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN OR FOR THOSE WHO AREN’T ACCLIMATED TO COLORADO’S HIGH ALTITUDE. AT AN EASY PACE, THIS ROUTE TYPICALLY TAKES ABOUT 30 TO 45 MINUTES ONE-WAY. GO IN JULY OR AUGUST, AND YOU’LL VIEW GORGEOUS WILDFLOWERS IN FULL BLOOM.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
Elevation: 11,195 ft.
Elevation Gain: 680 ft.
Recommended Map: Latitude 40◦ Maps: Salida / Buena Vista
Directions: From the stoplight in downtown Buena Vista at the intersection of U.S. 24 and Main Street, head west on Main Street/CR 306 and travel for 18.1 miles. You’ll be going in the same direction as Cottonwood Pass. The trailhead will be on your left, and a small parking section is located on the right side of the road; keep your eyes peeled because the trailhead can be easily missed.
