Willow Lakes hike, Silverthorne, CO

Willow Lakes is a must-do trail to see some beautiful alpine lakes, lots of wildflowers (in late July at least), and great views of Red Peak. I'm so glad that my friend JC urged us to do this one!

The trail climbs steadily at the start. Then levels off a bit. And climbs a bit at the end.

About halfway through, you get great views of Red Peak, which isn't so much of a single peak, but several pointed, jagged peaks in a row.

At the trail junction with Salmon Lake, we took the left trail to Willow Lakes.

Four beautiful alpine lakes. Ate lunch on a rock overlooking the uppermost lake. It started to rain just as we were finishing lunch.

We took the lower path through a camp at the third lake on the way back. This was perhaps a half mile shorter than the upper path we'd taken to get there.

It hailed on us twice. Both times the size of peas. The hail hurt when it hit us -- hands, ears, legs. Charlie's back was covered in hail and he was very unhappy.

Charlie was exhausted. We felt good!

See 19 photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/vickijbrown/sets/72157622177563308/

12 miles, 2,400 foot elevation gain
Summit: 4th of the 4 Willows lakes, 11,465'
Route: Willow Lakes trail (passing Gore Range trail and Salmon Lake trail)
4-1/2 hrs up; 3 hrs down