State: Colorado
Location: Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Length, One-Way: 5 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 11080 feet
Maximum Elevation: 11950 feet
Best Season: Summer, Fall
Difficulty: Difficult
Usage: Heavy
Wintertime on the Colorado River
Trail Information
The Tunnel Lake Trail offers hikers some of the most scenic views around. During July and August, wildflowers are in full bloom and blanket the alpine surroundings with a multitude of colors. This trail is very popular with photographers and hikers seeking pristine alpine areas.
From the parking area, visitors can walk west along the old railroad grade to the east portal of the historic Alpine Tunnel. From where the trail ends at the caved-in entrance to the tunnel, the trail travels up a steep hill for about 3/4 miles. The trail, at this point, is above timberline and is marked by a series of rock cairns. Tunnel Lake is visible by looking northeast from the trail and hikers can descend from the trail down to the lake.
Hikers may continue on the trail for 3.5 miles to the Tincup Pass Road (Forest Road 267). The trail descends very steeply to the North Fork of Chalk Creek and Forest Road 267.
Directions
From Nathrop (Highway 285):
Travel west on County Road 162 approximately 17 miles to the junction with Forest Road 295. Turn left onto Forest Road 295 and travel south for approximately 5.5 miles to the old townsite of Hancock. From the Hancock sign the road curves to the right passing the access road for Hancock Pass (Forest Road 299). A small parking area is available.
