This summer has been downright brutal, as temperatures continue to stay in the 90s, and Colorado is still at a standstill due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Do you need to get out and make a memorable splash? While many pools and waterparks are still closed, there is one epic and hidden swimming hole that you can visit, which is the little-known Lost Man Lake:

Hidden away in Pitkin County near Aspen, Lost Man Lake is a stunning alpine lake that is tucked away in the Sawatch Range in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness of White River National Forest.

Google/Suan Hsi Yong

Accessible by trail, the Lost Man Lake is made up of some of the most pristinely blue water you will ever see and is both brisk and refreshing, as it sits at an elevation of 12,450 feet.

Fredlyfish4/Wikimedia Commons

Needless to say, with a high elevation comes a long hike, but the Lost Man Lake and Trail are worth it, thanks to the surrounding landscape, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, and ample wildlife sightings. 

AllTrails/Camron Davies

To access the lake and 9-mile point-to-point trail, head east on Highway 82 from Aspen to the parking area across from the Lost Man Campground, where you will find the trailhead on the north side of the road.

AllTrails/Iam MBB

Please note: This trail is considered to be moderate and is best used June through September. 

AllTrails/Jessica Christie

Trust us: The hike may be challenging, but the end result is entirely worth it!

AllTrails/Keri McCall

Keep your eyes peeled because you never know what you will discover during your Lost Man adventure. 

Google/Jamie Rogers

For more information on the Lost Man Trail and Lake, please visit the U.S. Forest Service’s website.

AllTrails/Becky Heldt

Do you have a favorite trail that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? If so, nominate it here! For even more of our favorite Centennial State swimming holes, check out 11 Epic Colorado Lakes and Swimming Holes To Have A Blast This Summer.

Google/Suan Hsi Yong

Fredlyfish4/Wikimedia Commons

AllTrails/Camron Davies

AllTrails/Iam MBB

AllTrails/Jessica Christie

AllTrails/Keri McCall

Google/Jamie Rogers

AllTrails/Becky Heldt

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Address: Lost Man Lake, Colorado 81611, USA