The Chicago Lakes Trail #52, begins at the Echo Lake Campground, south of Idaho Springs, and leads to Chicago Lakes, in the Mount Evans Wilderness.

The first part of the trail passes behind Echo Lake and along a ridge to the Idaho Springs Reservoir Road. The trail travels along the road about a mile and then travels up, steeply at times, through and old burn. The trail to the upper lake is rather steep and narrow. Both lakes offer excellent views of the surrounding peaks and the panorama. There are limited places to camp at the lakes.

Directions: From Idaho Springs, Travel southwest on Highway 103 approximately 14 miles to Echo Lake Campground which is located at the intersection of Highway 103 and Highway 5 on the Mt. Evans Scenic Byway. The trail begins at the Echo Lake Campground.

Elevation: 10,600 feet

Ending Elevation: 12,000 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet

Distance: 5.5 miles

Usage: Heavy

Difficulty: Strenuous

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