St Mary's Glacier, Idaho Springs

This place has a lot of memories, including ones of more snow. Seems the snow field and the lake are getting smaller. But it's still beautiful. The short hike to the lake is very rocky, and many people like to hang out at the lake. However, is totally worth it to hike to the top of the permanent snow field for a gorgeous experience that for me was accomplished with no one else around, a special experience in Colorado!

Might be the perfect hike for Denver visitors/residents. Close enough to Denver to do in a half day; strenuous enough to feel like a real hike, but short enough for most people (we did it with a 3.5 year old); elevation change that levels out at a beautiful lake; ability to hike up and touch something truly unique - a glacier! The parking is just ahead of the trailhead. Beware that the parking lot is extremely rocky and uneven. You'll need a pen to fill out the parking permit and $5 cash to pay for parking. There were also cliff divers (the water was frigid), skiers who hiked up to the top of the glacier (August) and people enjoying hammocks (tons of little areas to tie up).

Beautiful!! The hike up is very rocky so be careful. The trail is nice and wide so multiple areas to stop and catch your breath. Don't forget to check out the water fall by taking the road towards the right, quick detour to a lovely view! It was cool to see people snowboarding and skiing.

Good hike. Arrived early and was able to enjoy the scenery before the crowds. Unfortunately on the decent from the lake there were many walkers throwing rocks into the lake, and dogs that are required to be on leashes left to run around freely. Completely disrespectful and destructive behavior.

One of my favorite easy day hikes. Nice wilderness area, kind of crowded, but that is part of the ambience. 40 minute drive from Denver and 40 minute hike up to a picturesque mountain lake. You can go skiing then cliff diving in the same hour. Bring a hammock and hang out for the afternoon breathing in the mountain air.