Clear Lake Silverton: A Hidden Mountain Gem in Colorado

If you’ve ever scrolled through pictures of alpine lakes in Colorado and thought, “There’s no way it actually looks like that in real life”—welcome to Clear Lake Silverton Colorado. This shimmering turquoise lake, surrounded by jagged peaks and rolling meadows, is one of the San Juan Mountains’ true hidden gems.

Unlike the more famous Ice Lake Basin or Columbine Lake, Clear Lake doesn’t require a grueling all-day hike to reach. Instead, it’s accessible by a rugged 4×4 road that winds high into the alpine. That means you get the jaw-dropping beauty without the massive crowds.

For hikers, campers, and photographers, Clear Lake is one of the best-kept secrets in the Silverton area. And if you’re road-tripping through Colorado, this is one of those places that turns into the highlight of your trip—guaranteed.

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1. Welcome to Clear Lake – Why It’s Special

What makes Clear Lake stand out isn’t just its beauty (though it’s breathtaking). It’s the whole experience of getting there.

• You start in Silverton, a historic mining town at 9,300 feet.

• You drive up winding dirt roads, passing waterfalls, meadows, and the occasional marmot sunning itself on a rock.

• And then suddenly, you crest a ridge and the lake appears—deep blue-green water framed by dramatic peaks.

It feels untouched, like nature’s private hideaway. Unlike busier alpine spots, you’ll often find Clear Lake peaceful and quiet, with just a few other adventurers soaking it in.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and extra layers. Even in July, the air can be chilly at over 11,000 feet, and you’ll want time to just sit and take it all in.

2. Where Is Clear Lake in Silverton, Colorado?

Clear Lake sits high in the San Juan Mountains, just a short but adventurous trip from downtown Silverton. At an elevation of about 11,900 feet, it’s one of the highest alpine lakes you can access by vehicle in Colorado.

Location Basics

• Nearest Town: Silverton, Colorado (about 7 miles away).

• Region: Southwestern Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest.

• Coordinates: Approximately 37.8486° N, 107.7353° W.

IN 1952 I FISHED FROM A ROWBOAT ON CLEAR LAKE…THE ENTIRE LAKE WATER WAS CLEARER THEN MY SWIM POOL…I COULD SEE FISH LOOKING AT MY BAIT…I WAS A KID FROM K&A IN PHILLY…IT BLEW MY MIND…..IS IT STILL CLEAR ?

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Explore the Clear lake on google maps

The lake is tucked into a glacial cirque, meaning it’s surrounded by steep cliffs and jagged peaks that create a natural amphitheater. Meltwater and springs feed into the basin, giving the lake its clear, vibrant turquoise color that shifts with the light.

Why Its Location Is Special

Clear Lake’s accessibility makes it stand out. Most alpine lakes in Colorado require hours of hiking, but here, you can reach the shoreline in under an hour from Silverton—if you have the right vehicle. That balance of accessibility and remoteness is what makes it feel like a true hidden gem.

💡 Pro Tip: Because it’s so close to Silverton, you can combine a trip to Clear Lake with other adventures like Animas Forks Ghost Town or the Million Dollar Highway in one epic day.

📍 Explore Clear Lake on Google Maps: Clear Lake Silverton CO

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3. How to Get There – Driving & Trail Info

Reaching Clear Lake is half the adventure. The lake is accessible by a rough 4×4 road that climbs high into the alpine. While it’s not the most extreme off-road trail in the San Juans, you’ll definitely need a vehicle with clearance.

Driving Directions from Silverton

1. Start in downtown Silverton.

2. Head north on Highway 550 for just under 2 miles.

3. Turn left onto County Road 7 (Clear Lake Road).

4. Follow the signs for Clear Lake as the road narrows and climbs.

5. Drive about 5 miles on the rugged 4×4 road until you reach the lake.

Total travel time: 30–45 minutes from Silverton, depending on conditions and how often you stop for photos (spoiler: you will stop a lot).

Explore the Road map on google maps

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Road Conditions

• The road is rocky, narrow, and steep in places.

• You’ll cross streams and deal with loose rock.

• Not recommended for standard cars, vans, or RVs.

• High-clearance 4×4 is essential (think Jeep, Tacoma, 4Runner).

💡 Pro Tip: Go slow, stay alert, and don’t be afraid to let more experienced off-roaders pass. The views along the way—waterfalls, alpine meadows, and wildflowers—make the drive just as magical as the destination.

4. Hiking at Clear Lake – Trail Details

Even though Clear Lake is famous for being one of the few alpine lakes you can reach by vehicle, hikers still have plenty of reasons to love this spot. Whether you just want a short stroll around the shore or you’re looking to connect it with nearby trails, Clear Lake delivers.

Short Walks Around the Lake

Once you arrive, you can walk along the shoreline. There isn’t an official “loop” trail, but you’ll find little paths where people wander to:

• Picnic spots overlooking the water.

• Quiet fishing areas (anglers sometimes catch brook trout here).

• Natural rock outcrops perfect for photography.

It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a structured trail—every direction is worth exploring.

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Linking With Other Trails

For those who want more than a lakeside stroll, Clear Lake is surrounded by backcountry routes and alpine ridgelines. Popular options include:

• Clear Creek Trail Connection – Hike down toward the basin for wildflower views in summer.

• Ridgeline Scrambles – Adventurers sometimes scramble up the ridges above the lake for a bird’s-eye view. (⚠️ Only for experienced hikers with proper gear.)

💡 Pro Tip: The area is above tree line, so you’re fully exposed. Always pack sun protection, layers, and be prepared for weather shifts. Storms roll in fast here.

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Wildflowers & Wildlife

One of the best reasons to hike here in summer is the wildflower show. From July through early August, the meadows explode with color—columbines, Indian paintbrush, lupine, and alpine sunflowers.

Wildlife sightings are common too:

• Marmots sunning on rocks.

• Pikas chirping near talus slopes.

• Occasionally mountain goats or elk wandering through.

It feels like stepping into a postcard, where every step brings another “wow” moment.

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Difficulty Level

• Shoreline Walks: Easy, family-friendly, minimal elevation gain.

• Ridgeline Extensions: Strenuous, no marked trail, only for advanced hikers.

Because you’re already at nearly 12,000 feet, even a short walk can feel tougher than expected. Take it slow and give yourself time to acclimate.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve just arrived in Silverton from sea level, spend a day adjusting before heading up to Clear Lake. Altitude sickness is no joke.

5. Camping at Clear Lake – Stay Under the Stars

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up beside an alpine lake, Clear Lake is the kind of place that makes that dream real. Camping here feels like you’ve stumbled onto nature’s private balcony overlooking the San Juans.

Dispersed Camping Rules

Clear Lake is part of the San Juan National Forest, which means camping here is dispersed—no designated sites, no fees, and no amenities. The rules are simple but important:

• Camp at least 100 feet from the lake’s edge to protect fragile alpine ecosystems.

• Pack out everything you bring in—there are no trash cans.

• Practice Leave No Trace principles. This place is stunning because it’s pristine—let’s keep it that way.

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Best Spots

• Above the Shoreline: Look for flat spots just above the lake, where you can pitch a tent with incredible sunrise views.

• Along the Access Road: Some campers set up along the 4×4 road leading up to the lake, which provides a bit more space and shelter.

• Nearby Meadows: Wildflower meadows near the lake make for magical campsites (just be mindful not to trample sensitive areas).

💡 Pro Tip: Nights get cold even in July. Pack a warm sleeping bag (20°F or lower) and extra layers. At nearly 12,000 feet, frost isn’t unusual.

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RV & Vehicle Camping

The 4×4 road isn’t suitable for big rigs or trailers, but if you’re in a small camper van or overlanding rig with high clearance, you can camp near the lake. Many travelers say this is one of their favorite vehicle-accessible alpine camps in Colorado.

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What Makes Camping Here Special

• The Silence: Once the sun goes down and the last day-trippers leave, the lake is unbelievably quiet.

• The Sky: At this altitude, the Milky Way looks close enough to touch. Stargazing is unforgettable.

• The Sunrise: Watching the first light hit the surrounding peaks while the lake glows blue-green is worth the chilly night.

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Safety Considerations

• Weather: Afternoon storms are common in summer—set up camp early.

• Altitude: Sleeping at nearly 12,000 feet can be tough if you’re not acclimated.

• Wildlife: Black bears are rare this high up, but marmots have been known to chew on gear—store your stuff securely.

📍 Camping Tip Map: Use San Juan National Forest camping info for updated rules.

6. Photography & Scenic Views

Clear Lake isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you capture. Photographers, both amateur and professional, flock here because the combination of alpine scenery, dramatic skies, and reflective water makes for jaw-dropping shots.

Why Clear Lake Is a Photographer’s Dream

• Color of the Water: The lake shifts shades throughout the day—from deep sapphire in the morning to turquoise and emerald when the sun is high.

• Alpenglow: At sunrise and sunset, the surrounding peaks catch fire with pinks and oranges, reflecting perfectly in the still lake.

• Wildflowers: In July and August, the meadows around the lake burst with color, framing shots in ways that feel like nature painted them for you.

• Stars & Night Photography: At nearly 12,000 feet, with no light pollution, Clear Lake is one of the best places for astrophotography in the San Juans. The Milky Way arches overhead, mirrored in the glassy water below.

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Best Spots for Photos

1. From the Road Above the Lake – As you crest the final switchbacks, you’ll get a sweeping bird’s-eye view of the entire basin.

2. Shoreline Reflections – On calm mornings, the lake becomes a mirror, reflecting the peaks and sky in perfect symmetry.

3. Meadow Angles – Framing the lake with foreground wildflowers adds depth and color to your shots.

4. Drone Perspectives – If you fly responsibly (and legally), drone shots here are breathtaking. Just remember: the altitude drains batteries fast.

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Pro Tips for Great Shots

• Golden Hour Rules: Sunrise and sunset are unbeatable for light and color.

• Pack a Tripod: Essential for night photography or capturing silky water effects on nearby streams.

• Polarizing Filter: Helps cut glare and deepen the lake’s colors.

• Wide-Angle Lens: Perfect for capturing the entire cirque in one frame.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re serious about night photography, arrive before sunset, set up camp, and scout your spots in daylight. Once darkness falls, moving around uneven alpine terrain can be tricky.

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What Not to Do

• Don’t trample wildflowers just for a photo. Stick to established paths and natural clearings.

• Don’t fly drones near other visitors—it ruins the silence and serenity people come here for.

7. Best Time to Visit Clear Lake

Clear Lake is accessible for only part of the year, and your experience will vary dramatically depending on when you go. Here’s what to expect by season:

Summer (Late June – Early September)

This is the prime season to visit Clear Lake.

• Road Access: The 4×4 road is usually clear of snow by late June.

• Wildflowers: Meadows explode with color from mid-July to early August.

• Camping: Nights are chilly but manageable with the right gear.

• Crowds: Expect more visitors on weekends, but it’s never as busy as Ice Lake or Columbine Lake.

💡 Pro Tip: Arrive on a weekday morning for the best chance of solitude.

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Fall (Mid-September – October)

A magical but short window.

• Golden Aspens: The drive up is spectacular, with the valley glowing gold.

• Crisp Air: Daytime is perfect for hiking, nights dip below freezing.

• Access Risk: Early snowstorms can close the road anytime after late September.

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Winter (November – May)

Clear Lake becomes inaccessible to most vehicles.

• The 4×4 road is buried in snow.

• Snowshoers and backcountry skiers can sometimes make the journey, but conditions are harsh.

• This season is best left to serious winter adventurers with avalanche gear and experience.

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Spring (Late May – June)

A tricky in-between.

• Melting Snow: Streams run high, and the road is often muddy or blocked by drifts.

• Unpredictable Weather: Sunny one moment, snowing the next.

• Not Ideal for First-Timers: If it’s your first Clear Lake visit, aim for later summer.

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The Verdict

The best time to visit Clear Lake Silverton Colorado is mid-July through early September. The road is clear, the wildflowers are blooming, and the lake shines its brightest turquoise under long summer days.

📸 Best season for photography: July for flowers, September for golden aspens.

8. Comparing Clear Lake vs. Columbine Lake & Ice Lake Basin

Silverton is spoiled when it comes to alpine lakes. Three stand out as must-sees: Clear Lake, Columbine Lake, and Ice Lake Basin. Each has its own personality, and knowing the differences helps you pick the right adventure for your trip.

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Clear Lake – Accessible Beauty

• Access: Reachable via a 4×4 road, no long hike required.

• Best For: Road trippers, photographers, campers with overlanding rigs, families who want alpine scenery without a strenuous trek.

• Highlights: Easy access, gorgeous reflections, great camping, fewer crowds compared to the other lakes.

• Challenge Level: Easy once you’ve driven the rough road.

💡 Verdict: The best option if you want big rewards with minimal hiking.

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Columbine Lake – The Blue Jewel

• Access: A steep, strenuous 7.5-mile round-trip hike with over 2,800 feet of elevation gain.

• Best For: Hikers who love a challenge and want solitude.

• Highlights: Electric-blue water surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Often quieter than Ice Lake.

• Challenge Level: Difficult—requires stamina and altitude adjustment.

💡 Verdict: Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a full-day adventure and a less crowded alpine lake.

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Ice Lake Basin – The Iconic Showstopper

• Access: Around 7.5–8 miles round trip, with about 2,400 feet of gain.

• Best For: Those who want to see one of Colorado’s most famous alpine lakes.

• Highlights: Ice Lake’s vivid turquoise water, plus nearby Island Lake for bonus views.

• Challenge Level: Strenuous but slightly more forgiving than Columbine Lake.

💡 Verdict: The most famous and busiest of the three. Worth it if you want bragging rights and don’t mind the crowds.

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Which One Should You Choose?

• Limited Time / Vehicle Access? → Clear Lake

• Want Solitude + Workout? → Columbine Lake

• Want the Instagram Icon? → Ice Lake Basin

Truthfully, if you can, do them all. Each offers a different flavor of the San Juans, and together they showcase why this region is considered one of the most beautiful in Colorado.

9. Safety Tips & Things to Know

Clear Lake may look like a serene paradise, but don’t let its beauty fool you—the alpine environment demands respect. Whether you’re driving up for the view, camping overnight, or linking hikes, keep these essentials in mind.

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Altitude Awareness

At nearly 11,900 feet, Clear Lake is high enough for altitude sickness to be a concern. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

• Spend a night in Silverton (9,300 ft) before heading higher.

• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before your trip.

• If symptoms worsen, head to lower elevation immediately.

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Weather Conditions

Mountain weather changes in a heartbeat.

• Summer Storms: Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Arrive early and leave before lightning risk increases.

• Snowfall: Even in July, snow flurries aren’t unusual. Pack layers.

• Cold Nights: Expect near-freezing temps, even mid-summer.

💡 Pro Tip: Always check the forecast, but be prepared for surprises anyway.

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Driving & Road Safety

• Only attempt the 4×4 road with a high-clearance vehicle.

• Go slow—loose rock and water crossings can be tricky.

• Don’t attempt after heavy rain or snowmelt.

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Gear Checklist

• Clothing: Waterproof shell, warm layers, hat, gloves.

• Footwear: Hiking boots if you plan to walk around.

• Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and plenty of water.

• Camping: Bear-proof storage, warm sleeping bag, stove.

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Leave No Trace

Clear Lake is fragile. Alpine vegetation takes decades to recover from damage.

• Camp at least 100 feet away from the lake.

• Stay on existing paths around the shoreline.

• Pack out everything—yes, even food scraps.

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Cell Service & Safety

• Don’t count on cell service. Carry a map or GPS device.

• If you’re solo, let someone know your plan before you go.

• Be ready for self-sufficiency—help may take hours to arrive.

10. Reviews & Real Visitor Experiences

Sometimes the best way to understand a place is through the words of travelers who’ve already been there. Clear Lake has left a big impression on visitors, and the reviews reflect just how special this alpine gem is.

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Traveler Reviews

• One hiker wrote: “The drive up was bumpy, but the views made every bump worth it. When we got to the top, it felt like stepping into another world—so peaceful, so blue, so perfect.”

• Another visitor said: “Clear Lake is easily one of the prettiest spots near Silverton. I’ve done Ice Lake and Columbine, but this one is just as stunning and way less crowded.”

• A camper added: “We stayed overnight by the lake. The stars were unreal—felt like we were sleeping under a galaxy dome. Bring warm gear though, it was freezing in July.”

👉 See more Clear Lake reviews on TripAdvisor

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My Take – Why Visitors Fall in Love

Clear Lake has a way of surprising people. For some, it’s the fact that you can reach such a pristine alpine environment without a long hike. For others, it’s the solitude—the feeling that you’ve found a pocket of quiet beauty that hasn’t been overrun.

I think the magic lies in the combination: the adventurous drive, the meadows full of wildflowers, and the lake itself shimmering like a jewel at nearly 12,000 feet. It’s not just the destination—it’s the whole journey.

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Common Themes in Reviews

• Accessibility + Beauty: Visitors love that you don’t have to hike miles to enjoy a true alpine lake.

• Peacefulness: Even on weekends, it never feels as crowded as Ice Lake Basin.

• Photography Heaven: Travelers rave about the reflections, wildflowers, and night skies.

• Rough Road: Almost everyone mentions the bumpy drive, but also agrees it’s worth it.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about the 4×4 road, consider booking a guided jeep tour out of Silverton. Many outfitters include Clear Lake in their itineraries.

11. Nearby Attractions – What Else to See Around Silverton

Clear Lake may be the highlight of your trip, but it’s just one piece of the Silverton puzzle. The area is surrounded by ghost towns, scenic drives, and other alpine wonders that make for a packed itinerary.

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Animas Forks Ghost Town

Just a short drive from Silverton, Animas Forks is one of Colorado’s best-preserved mining ghost towns. Old cabins, a saloon, and mining ruins sit high in the alpine, telling stories of the boom-and-bust days of the late 1800s.

• Best explored by 4×4 or with a jeep tour.

• Don’t miss the Duncan House, famous for its bay window overlooking the valley.

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Million Dollar Highway (US 550)

One of the most scenic drives in America, this stretch of road between Silverton and Ouray is a must.

• Sheer drop-offs, tight turns, and jaw-dropping views.

• Especially beautiful in fall when aspens light up the valleys.

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Ice Lake Basin

If Clear Lake whets your appetite for alpine lakes, Ice Lake Basin is the next step. The 7.5-mile round-trip hike is challenging but rewards you with a turquoise lake that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel.

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Columbine Lake

For solitude seekers, Columbine Lake offers a quieter but equally stunning alpine destination. The hike is steep and tough, but the payoff is an otherworldly blue lake surrounded by cliffs.

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Silverton Downtown

Don’t overlook the town itself. Stroll Silverton’s historic downtown with its Victorian buildings, quirky shops, and cozy cafes. Grab a meal at Handlebars or sip a local beer at Avalanche Brewing Company to round out your adventure.

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Jeep & ATV Tours

If you loved the rugged drive to Clear Lake, consider booking a jeep or ATV tour. Silverton is surrounded by mountain passes like Engineer Pass and Ophir Pass—routes that offer sweeping views and historic sites.

💡 Pro Tip: Pair your Clear Lake adventure with a visit to Animas Forks in a single day. Both are accessible by jeep trails, making for the ultimate backcountry experience.

12. Final Thoughts – Why Clear Lake Is Worth the Trip

Clear Lake isn’t just another alpine stop—it’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Tucked into a cirque high above Silverton, the lake offers the kind of beauty you usually have to hike miles to find. And yet, with the right 4×4 vehicle, you can be standing on its shores in under an hour.

What makes Clear Lake Silverton Colorado so special is the combination of accessibility and raw alpine magic. You get the turquoise water, wildflower meadows, star-filled skies, and peaceful campsites without the crowds that flock to Ice Lake Basin. It feels personal, like you’ve discovered a secret corner of the San Juans.

If you’re road-tripping through Colorado, add Clear Lake to your must-see list. Whether you come for a quick afternoon picnic, a night of camping under the Milky Way, or a photography session at sunrise, you’ll leave with the sense that you’ve touched one of nature’s hidden masterpieces.

Clear Lake proves that sometimes the best adventures aren’t the most famous—they’re the ones tucked just off the beaten path, waiting for you to make the effort to find them.

13. Frequently Asked Questions about Clear Lake