Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Monarch Lake Trailhead

    5.0 (5 reviews)

    Monarch Lake Trailhead Photos

    More like Monarch Lake Trailhead

    Recommended Reviews - Monarch Lake Trailhead

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Hiking around the lake
    Dana K.

    There are many hikes leaving from this Monarch Lake Trailhead including hikes to the falls and to other lakes, but let's talk about the loop around Monarch Lake. This is a 3.2 mile hike with a 300 feet elevation gain, designated easy in the guidebooks. Depending on the time of year, you will hike through some mud, skip over some running streams, walk over man-made bridges over creeks, or step on stones to get through. You might have to go over or under downed trees, but all of this adds to the fun an interest of this amazing place! Part of the Monarch Loop is in the Indian Peaks Wilderness where you will discover additional and more difficult trails to try next time! The loop is part sun, part shade with stunning views. I recommend sun screen and possibly bug spray (buggy Mcbugface is out for sure in later hours). The loop takes about 2 hours, but is slower with little ones and faster if you just like to get it done! There is a pit toilet, but it has been closed because of Covid19. They are looking to open for Cabin greeting at the lake entrance and open the toilets the first weekend in July 2020 again, so plan accordingly! Parking can be difficult on the weekends especially after 9am.

    Monarch Lakr

    See all

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dana K.
    117
    430
    4229

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 136 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Liquid Descent - Hank raft guide was the best

    Liquid Descent

    4.9(632 reviews)
    26.3 mi

    I can't say enough good things about our experience with Liquid Descent. My daughter and I signed…read moreup for the beginner rafting trip... and while she was excited... I was terrified. I was so nervous walking in, but from the moment we arrived, every single staff member made us feel welcomed, safe, and supported. Our guide, Koa, was the perfect balance of fun, kind, and incredibly skilled. He guided us through the rapids with such confidence and ease while also making sure everyone felt safe and included. He checked in on us several times throughout and made sure we were having fun, asked us if we wanted to "spice it up" a bit or keep it mellow and just really let us know this was "our" trip and he's cater to what we wanted. I quickly found myself letting go of fear and enjoying the moment... something I didn't expect would happen. Koa's energy was contagious, and his calm, respectful nature made us feel like we were in the best hands possible. At one point on the river, another rafting company had a mishap and we had to pull over and wait for them to recover and get their riders back into the raft safely. Koa explained what had happened with total grace - no judgment, no gossip - just a calm and respectful explanation. He also spoke so kindly of his own coworkers and even the owner of Liquid Descent. You could tell he genuinely cares about the rafting community and takes pride in his work and LOVES his Liquid Descent family! Every employee we encountered was friendly, encouraging, and helpful - from getting us fitted with helmets and life jackets to cheering us on as we headed out. As someone who started out nervous, that kind of supportive vibe made a huge difference. They encouraged me, and they helped me push past my comfort zone in the best way possible. What a GREAT memory! We will remember this day not only for the thrill of the rapids, but for the kindness and heart of the people who guided us through it! If you are considering rafting in Colorado, go with Liquid Descent. I'm so glad we did!

    First time rafters, and LD and their amazing crew delivered! Class III/IV rapids out of the Idaho…read moreSprings area - highly recommended! Ask for Ben, our guide. He was awesome!!! Hack - go on one of the early rafts, like the 8:30 or 9:00, easier parking and often the weather is nicer!

    Photos
    Liquid Descent - People rafting

    People rafting

    Liquid Descent - Our group of 17 ready to conquer the rapids.

    Our group of 17 ready to conquer the rapids.

    Liquid Descent

    See all

    Colorado Adventure Center - Whooooi!!!!

    Colorado Adventure Center

    4.7(231 reviews)
    25.7 mi

    The whole process was so great! From booking online, getting there to check in, going through the…read moresafety briefing and on the river! Caleb was our rafts guides and 10/10 be made the whole experience fun and safe! I was scared cause well I've never don't this before but tbh I'd def do it again and already planning the next trip! I went on a whim for my birthday and it was definitely one to remember!

    As first-time rafters with two skeptical teenage girls in tow, we weren't sure if we were about to…read morebond... or just bounce off some rocks. But Austin was our fearless rafting guide and part-time therapist--who calmed nerves, cracked jokes, and got us paddling in no time. From the very first splash, Austin made us feel safe and slightly more athletic than we actually are. He coached us through the twists and turns of the creek, and somehow convinced our teens that getting absolutely drenched and paddling for their lives was the best day ever. Miracles do exist. We glided through hidden stretches of the creek like pros (or at least like enthusiastic amateurs with great lighting), hollering with joy and soaking up every second of the adventure. Even the "hold on tight!" moments felt like a ride at a theme park--but with better views and less screaming. 10/10 would paddle again. If you're looking for an unforgettable family outing full of laughter, nature, and just the right amount of "we might flip but only if you don't do what Austin says", he's your guide. He's part guide, part hype man, and all-around river legend. Bring snacks or a picnic lunch for after an early morning trip, bring sunscreen (and put it on BEFORE you get a wetsuit. Rent shoes when you check-in ($5/person). Your family will thank you for this adventure (once they stop laughing and wringing out their socks).

    Photos
    Colorado Adventure Center
    Colorado Adventure Center - Ziplining!!!!

    Ziplining!!!!

    Colorado Adventure Center

    See all

    Monarch Lake Trailhead - hiking - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...