Map showing campground location near Nederland, Colorado

Camper submitted image from Caribu Lake V.I.A Arapahoe Pass Trail

Caribu Lake V.I.A Arapahoe Pass Trail

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Reaching Caribu Lake requires commitment. The route begins at the Fourth of July Trailhead outside Eldora, covers roughly 8.8 miles out and back, and climbs approximately 2,600 feet to cross the Continental Divide before dropping down to the lake on the western slope. The dirt road to the trailhead is bumpy but manageable in a two-wheel-drive vehicle. Campers should plan an early start, since afternoon thunderstorms are common and the parking lot fills quickly. A permit from the Boulder Ranger District is required, with only six permits issued per night.

The lake sits tucked against Mount Neva and the Divide, which blocks much of the wind. Campsites can be spread out and a little tricky to locate, but the low permit cap keeps crowds thin. Moose have been spotted near the water in the mornings, and reviewers consistently mention wildlife activity around the lake. A stream near camp provides a water source, though filtration is necessary. Trout are present in the lake. Diamond Lake and Jasper Lake are nearby alternatives for those exploring the Indian Peaks Wilderness corridor.

Mosquitoes are a significant factor, particularly in midsummer. One camper counted over 50 bites from a single night, and Mia S. notes they "love the trees so try to stay away from those." Wildflowers along the trail are dense in July. Rock slides on the pass have made portions of the route uneven, so footing requires attention on the return climb. This destination suits experienced hikers comfortable with high-altitude backcountry conditions who are prepared for insects and variable weather.

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Map & DirectionsCaribu Lake V.I.A Arapahoe Pass Trail is located in Colorado near Nederland

Public Campground

Coordinates

39.99522042 N
105.6342004 W

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Access

Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Reservable
Alcohol
Pets

Drive Time

1 hr 9 min from Boulder, CO
1 hr 33 min from Denver, CO
1 hr 58 min from Greeley, CO
1 hr 59 min from Fort Collins, CO

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Caribu Lake V.I.A Arapahoe Pass Trail

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4 Reviews

Visitors consistently highlight the stunning alpine lake setting and pristine wilderness beauty. The challenging 8.8-mile hike with 2,600ft elevation gain rewards campers with peaceful solitude and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Mia S.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2021

Beautiful but beware of mosquitoes !

We started our trip on the 4th of July trailhead and saw BEAUTIFUL wildflowers throughout the hike.

We had planned on hiking down to monarch lake the next day. However, because of a wind event that trail was closed so we hiked the caribou trail down to junco lake trailhead instead.

Finding all of the campsites was a little tricky but there was only one other couple camping there so we had our pick. It was really beautiful and peaceful. Two other people we talked to said that they saw some moose in the morning before we arrived.

The biggest issue was the amount of mosquitoes. Inside the tent we could hear thousands just swarming the area and they moved in clouds. If you stopped for more than 15 seconds you were swarmed. I currently have about 52 (I counted) mosquito bites just from one night of camping. Pro-tip: they love the trees so try to stay away from those.

However, if you can get past the swarms of mosquitoes, this is a beautiful site with plenty of wildflowers and some cool trout! Definitely a rewarding place to stay after a long hike! We used the stream to refill our waters (don’t forget to purify) and it was delicious!

We hiked back up the pass and onto the caribou lake trail. There were some rock slides on the trail making the pass kind of treacherous in areas so take your time if hiking there!

Site9

Month of VisitJuly

(10) View All

Todd C.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 10, 2020

Beautiful

The hike over the divide takes time and patience when starting out at the Fourth of July trail. Once you concur the hike you will be amazed at the views, the wildlife and the serenity of some of Gods untouched land. If your in shape I would highly recommend the hike and experience.

Mitchell H.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2020

A Great Spot.

Indian Peaks Wilderness is an amazing area. You won’t be disappointed making this trek over the divide starting at the 4th of July trailhead. Make sure to stop at Lake Dorthy.

(4) View All

Jake W.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 14, 2019

An AMAZINGLY Beautiful Backcountry Lake.

If your looking for a backcountry lake to camp at and its close to the front range you better give this one a try. Being an hour away from Boulder to start your hike in makes this a gem!! Im sure some might get upset that I am telling about this but I feel everyone should experience the pristine beauty. Please just take the time to be a stewards of our land and respect our fragile lands ecosystem by learning the basics of leaving it the way you found it. LEAVE NO TRACE RULES AND PRINCIPALS.

This hike starts outside of Netherlands in a small town called Eldora. You will be starting at the 4th of July trailhead at the end of a bumpy dirt road. Don't worry your 2 wheel drive car will make it. Make sure and get your permit from the Boulder Ranger District. Give them a call at 303-541-2500. They only allow 6 permits per night at this lake but being this hike takes you onto the western side of the continental divide getting a permit is not very hard. The hard part is the hike.

This is an 8.8 mile out and back hike that takes you to 2,600 ft elevation gain. This hike takes you across the continental Divide and drops you down into this pristine high alpine lake. Get an early start at this hike as you don't want to start late and get hit with an afternoon thunderstorm that are all too common here in Colorado. Also the parking lot can fill up fast. I try to get started by no later then 6:30 am. If you do get a late start there is a shuttle that will take you to the trail head from Netherlands. This hike takes you threw a bunch of different forest life from dense forest to hi alpine above tree line. Make sure and bring enough water or something to filter your water with. There is water all the way to your camp site. Once you summit the divide you will see a lake on the western side that looks like its straight down. This is your camping destination. Switchback after switch back and you find yourself in the midst of something that looks like its straight out a fairy tell. It looks too good to be true. You can camp anywhere on the lake as long as your 100 ft from the water. There are times during the year you can start a fire. But call the ranger district and see if it's available. Being that this lake is tucked up so tight against Mnt Neva and the divide its not windy at all.

Keep you eyes open for moose as the moose love to frequent this lake in the morning. Lots of wildlife around this lake. Wheb you decide to leave you can either hike back up the divide or you can leave a car at monarch lake on the western side and hike out that way. No matter how you decide to get into this lake I guarantee you that you will fall in love. Indian Peaks Wilderness is amazing. Please keep it clean for many of our generations can enjoy the peace and solitude that I am offering you. Leave a review if you like it!

Thank you

Jake

Site1 of 6

Month of VisitJuly

(10) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping permitted at Caribou Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness?

Yes, camping is permitted at Caribou Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. As a backcountry site, you'll need to obtain a wilderness permit from the U.S. Forest Service for overnight stays. The lake offers a serene camping experience with stunning mountain views. Being in a designated wilderness area, all camping must follow Leave No Trace principles. There are designated camping areas to minimize environmental impact. The pristine nature of this area makes it a gem for backcountry enthusiasts seeking solitude.

How do I access Caribou Lake Campground in Colorado?

Caribou Lake is accessed via the 4th of July Trailhead near Nederland, Colorado, about an hour from Boulder. This backcountry lake requires a hike in, making it a pristine destination for those willing to make the trek. The trailhead provides parking for hikers heading into the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. Be prepared for a challenging hike that crosses the Continental Divide. During peak seasons, especially summer weekends, the trailhead can become crowded, so arriving early is recommended.

What hiking trails lead to Caribou Lake campground?

The primary route to Caribou Lake is via the Arapahoe Pass Trail beginning at the 4th of July Trailhead. This challenging trail crosses the Continental Divide and offers spectacular mountain views and wildflowers in season. Another option is the Caribou Trail, which can connect to various points including Junco Lake Trailhead. Some hikers also incorporate Lake Dorothy into their route for added scenery. The trails feature alpine terrain and can be strenuous with significant elevation gain, requiring good physical condition and proper preparation.

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