Woodland Lake Trail

If hiking through Colorado’s gorgeous Indian Peaks Wilderness Area sounds like a good time to your pooch, then grab the leash and head over to the Woodland Lake Trail. This trail gives you the chance to enjoy an afternoon of trekking through pine forests with your four legged hiking companion. Sounds puptastic!

There is a slight journey to get to the actual Woodland Lake Trail. Begin your adventure at Hessie Trailhead. After a short distance, follow the sign to Devil’s Thumb Trail. It will take you up a steep old road until you finally reach the cut off for the Woodland Lake Trail. On the way, you and your pup will pass turnoffs for Lost and King Lakes. But keep your pooch focused and wait for the Woodland Lake Trail junction. It’s about 2 miles from Hessie Trailhead.

Although the entire hike is beautiful, the last couple miles to the lake will make your doggo extra happy! As you wander through the fragrant pine forests, watch for wildflowers and mushrooms. Babbling brooks and cascading streams make this place extra puptacular. As it winds its way up the valley, the trail also passes through a marshy meadow. Your boots may get wet in this section. Once the incline levels off, you end up at Woodland Lake. Explore the pupperific surroundings and don’t forget to refuel your pup with some trail snacks.

If your doggo still has energy to burn, you can follow a half mile trail to Skyscraper Reservoir. At 11,220 feet in elevation, this aptly named lake is a furrific little side trip. But there’s no shame in just heading back to the car. Be sure to carry plenty of water. If you bring a filter, you can refill at one of the many streams. 

Your pooch will be tail waggin’ glad to hike Woodland Lake Trail!