Echo Lake Park — Attraction in Four Corners States

First and foremost, visit the Lodge before it is closed for good. The owners and employees are an amazing wealth of information and history, as well as friendly, caring and helpful people. They bring an energy that will be missed when they leave.

The trail is very easy, level and has several spots to walk to the water's edge. Only a few places had roots or rocks breaking through the trail. We did see a few strollers, but I would hesitate to say it is wheelchair accessible. It is well trafficked but 99% of the people are pleasant. Three dogs off leash but I would still rate that trail cat friendly. The dragon flies were spawning and the fish were jumping. We took the trail around the lake and partially up to the Chicago Lakes. The walk through the trees was peaceful, ethereal and cool. Plenty of shade, song birds and chipmunks. So many hummingbirds. We heard there may be moose in the area, but we didn't see any. Definitely recommend bringing water for the lake trail and snacks if you take the trail up to the Chicago Lakes. High altitude can quickly dehydrate lowlanders. It is a great place for a picnic, as well. All in all, it was a beautiful day along a...

This is an interesting area. The main road next to the lake, CO-103, isn't too busy (at least not in March), so it doesn't distract from the natural beauty. From the trailhead near the road you get a great view of the high peaks. The windswept starkness of this view contrasts with the serenity of the lake in a way that is awe inspiring.

The trail goes through the woods near the lake itself, so there is a nice mix of shade and lake views. The trail also connects to Chicago Lake Trail for the adventurous. In the winter, the trail isn't well-traveled, so it's easy to sink deep in the snow or lose your way.

The Echo Lake Lodge looked like a great place to get lunch for an out-and-back hike. However, it's boarded up at the moment (maybe for the winter).

There was a good amount of people going out on the ice. In my opinion as an experienced outdoorsman, that's a pretty bad idea. There's no telling how thick the ice is, or how far below the ice the water level is. Don't do it.

The facilities are well kept, and there is a campground nearby. Overall I'd say it's a nice place, even if the ice and snow covering the lake takes away from...

Echo Lake in the Blue Sky Mountains is an absolute gem, offering breathtaking views year-round. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, the scenery never disappoints. In the warmer months, the lake is a perfect stop on your way up to the mountains, where you can enjoy a delicious barbecue while taking in the stunning surroundings. The cool mountain air, combined with the picturesque landscape, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Winter, however, brings a whole new level of beauty to Echo Lake. The snow-covered peaks and frozen lake create a serene, winter wonderland. That said, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially in winter, and watch out for icy, slippery roads as you make your way to the lake. It’s important to dress warmly and exercise caution on the roads during colder months, as they can be quite treacherous.

Overall, Echo Lake is a must-see stop in both summer and winter, offering fantastic views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a great spot for a break. Whether you’re enjoying a BBQ in the summer or marveling at the snowy landscape in winter, it’s well...