July 15, 2019

Lily Pad Lake

The Trail
This easy trail is 1.7 miles long (one way) with about a 180 foot elevation change. Just remember though, there is some up and down hill in the middle of the trail.

Topographical Map

Graph of Elevation

Trail in Google Earth

The trail starts by heading uphill at good incline, but the view from the top is worthwhile in and of itself.


The path continues through a lot of forested areas, some of which can be muddy. Luckily strategically placed stones and boardwalks help hikers keep their feet dry.



About 0.7 mile into the hike there is a glacial till, and at 1.2 miles in this trail intersects with the Salt Lick Trail.



Hikers first arrive at Lily Pad Pond, or at Lily Pad Lake #1. Whatever name you call it by, it is easy to see where it derived its name from.


Unfortunately, when we hiked this, we thought this first lake was the end. However, those who continue just slightly further - as in less than a tenth a mile - with reach a second larger lake. So, don't make the same mistake we did and miss out on another lake after coming so far!

This trail is open to dogs and horses. There are no restrooms as the trailhead.

Directions
This trail is located in Frisco, Colorado. To get there, take I-70 to Main St. in Frisco. Take exit 205 and go west on US-6. Turn left onto Wildernest Rd., which curves around and becomes Buffalo Mountain Dr. Turn left onto Buffalo Dr., then take a right on Ryan Gulch Rd. After driving another 1.9 miels, you will be at a large horseshoe type bend in the road. There is some parking on the right here along the inside of the bend. If this is full you will have to park along the residential roads and walk further up to the trailhead. GPS Coordinates: N39 37.149 W106 06.622

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