Trail Overview

The Billings Lake Trail is a narrow, one-lane route that climbs steadily through central Colorado’s rugged terrain, ending above the picturesque Billings Lake. The trail is rocky and rough, featuring speed and erosion humps that require attentive driving. Despite the challenging surface, there are no major obstacles, making the trail suitable for high-clearance vehicles. Dispersed campsites along the route provide opportunities to stop, rest, and enjoy the surrounding alpine scenery. Cellular service is nonexistent, so travelers should plan accordingly.

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Difficulty

This trail has rocks and grades throughout. There are spots where the trail gets narrow, with reverse needed to allow vehicles to pass.

History

Billings Lake sits in a high-alpine environment, surrounded by dense stands of pine and aspen, open meadows, and the rocky peaks of the Colorado high country. Wildlife such as elk, deer, and a variety of birds can often be seen along the trail. The trail itself follows historical mining and grazing routes that were established to access remote parts of the mountains, offering both a connection to Colorado’s past and stunning scenic vistas for today’s visitors.

Technical Rating

Adventure Rider

May 31, 2026

Open

This trail is an awesome day trip to a beautiful lake! Wow the views are amazing. It’s a nice spot to explore and hike. The road is hard packed and bumpy with no major steps or obstacles. It may have a couple smoother sections but mostly hard packed manageable rocks. It has a nice and steady climb in elevation and beautiful views along the way.

Jacob Lashway

Apr 25, 2026

Open

Jordan Kennedy

Apr 03, 2026

Open

Gate still closed

Jordan Kennedy

Apr 03, 2026

Open

Gate still closed

Jeremy Ensey

Jul 24, 2025

Open

Not technical, just rough and slow going. About 30 minute drive to second waterfall. The first waterfall starts near the beginning of the trail to the right - walk down past a dispersed campsite. About 40 minute drive to road or spur 240.G.

Brady Banik

Jun 04, 2025

Open

Open to north fork but snow covers rd to billings lake

Mario DiBona

Oct 09, 2024

Open

Accurate description given. Rocky but not difficult. Mine portal at the end of the trail.

mark leach

Jul 12, 2024

Open

very rocky and bumpy after angel of shavano campground. road is a little narrow after that, but there are pulloffs. not technically difficult, but still slow going.

Brenden Bac

Sep 08, 2023

Open