Lake Agnes

Lake Agnes, Colorado, United States
40.4817° N, -105.9032° W
Lake Agnes
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Hidden deep within the Colorado State Forest State Park, Lake Agnes is a classic alpine tarn ringed by jagged peaks of the Never Summer Range. It’s the deepest lake in the park, nestled at 10,660 feet and framed by Nokhu Crags, Static Peak, and Mount Richthofen. A short, steep hike from the Lake Agnes Trailhead reveals jaw-dropping scenery—ideal for summer photography, wildflower spotting, and cold-water trout fishing. No boating or swimming is allowed, preserving the lake’s pristine character. With its glacial cirque setting and near-mythic silence, Lake Agnes is one of Colorado’s Yes hidden treasures.

Surface area (mi)
0.28
Elevation (ft)
10666.01
Shoreline length (mi)
2
Best time to go
Gracefully nestled in Colorado's Rockies, visit Lake Agnes in the golden embrace of late summer, particularly August. Revel in sun-drenched days perfect for kayaking, while vibrant wildflowers still bloom. Escape the crowds for serene reflections, where nature’s tranquility invites deep breaths and whispered revelries.
Water Quality
Lake Agnes in Colorado's State Forest State Park features deep blue waters with crystal-clear clarity, reflecting the surrounding alpine landscape. The lake's pristine, glassy surface offers a mirror-like effect, enhancing its serene beauty.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Fly Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing

Islands

One of the most distinctive sights at Lake Agnes is a small, tree-covered island that sits near the middle of the lake. It adds to the alpine charm and makes the lake especially photogenic, framed by the dramatic peaks of the Nokhu Crags and surrounding mountains.

Nearby amenities

Lake Agnes is a remote alpine tarn located within Colorado’s State Forest State Park, accessible only via a short (0.8–1 mile one way), steep hiking trail from a small upper parking lot. There are no docking, boat ramp, or motor-boat facilities, and no RV parking at the lake—visitors must hike in with any gear they bring. The lake offers serene alpine scenery, excellent opportunities for fishing, photography, and quiet hikes, with only a primitive (non-plumbed) restroom available at the trailhead. All structures such as cafés, general stores, cabins, rentals, picnic tables, or barbecue grills are not present at or near the lake. This natural setting preserves the pristine, high-elevation experience that makes Lake Agnes a beloved hidden gem.

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Marinas on Lake Agnes

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Agnes has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Agnes.

  • Visitors often come to Lake Agnes for hiking, fishing, photography, and wildlife viewing, as well as to enjoy the peaceful alpine setting. While the shoreline can be explored in places, walking all the way around the lake can be difficult and potentially unsafe due to rough, unmarked terrain, so caution is recommended.

  • In Lake Agnes, Colorado, fishing for trout is limited to artificial flies and lures only. The bag and possession limit for trout is two fish. All trout must be caught using specified gear to maintain conservation efforts.

  • No, Lake Agnes in Colorado does not have a designated public beach. It’s a remote alpine tarn within State Forest State Park and is primarily accessed via a hiking trail. The shoreline is rocky, unaltered, and lacks any sand or designated swimming area that you’d find at a typical beach.

  • The closest town to Lake Agnes in Colorado is Walden. Lake Agnes is located within the Colorado State Forest State Park in the Never Summer Mountain Range, and Walden is the nearby town that hikers often visit before or after their trek to the lake.