Lake Constantine Dispersed Camping

Lake Constantine is located near the town of Minturn in Colorado. The lake sits approximately 4 miles off Tigiwon Road in the Holy Cross Wilderness area. This pristine alpine lake is only accessible by hiking in, as there is no vehicle access directly to the lake. The remote location offers a secluded camping experience in the Colorado mountains.

The main trail to Lake Constantine begins from a trailhead off Tigiwon Road outside of Minturn. This is an approximately 4-mile hike one-way to reach the lake. The trail climbs through the Holy Cross Wilderness with moderate difficulty. Some hikers continue past Lake Constantine to explore nearby Fall Creek Pass or other connecting trails in the area. The trail can be busy during peak seasons, especially on weekends, but provides beautiful alpine scenery throughout the journey.

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Lake Constantine within Holy Cross Wilderness. There are multiple dispersed campsites around the lake with established fire pits. The area provides plenty of room for campers to spread out, even during busier periods. As this is wilderness camping, standard backcountry regulations apply, including proper food storage and waste disposal. No permits are required for camping, but wilderness regulations must be followed.

The best time to camp at Lake Constantine is during summer months, particularly July through early September when the trail is typically snow-free and temperatures are moderate. Early July offers a good balance of favorable conditions with fewer crowds, especially on weekdays. Weekends during summer can be quite busy. Fall brings cooler temperatures but spectacular colors. Weather in this alpine environment can change rapidly in any season, so proper preparation is essential regardless of when you visit.