Hiking Expedition to Helms Lake Amid Autumn Hues
Hiking Abyss Lake Trail in Fall: A Stunning Colorado Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking hike at Abyss Lake Trail, nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains via Guanella Pass. Here's a guide to help you navigate this popular fall hike, particularly its stunning aspen groves.
Peak Fall Colors
Experience the vibrant autumnal hues from late September to early October, with brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds showcased by the aspens and other deciduous trees along the trail.
Getting There
Access Abyss Lake Trail via Guanella Pass, a picturesque mountain road connecting Georgetown and Grant. Although Guanella Pass is a high mountain pass only accessible during summer months, it offers numerous outdoor opportunities, including campsites, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Here's a simple route to reach the trailhead from Grant:
- Take 285 towards Grant, then head north on 381 / Geneva Road.
- Continue for 5.2 miles, then look for a parking area on the right, complete with a large Abyss Trailhead sign.
- Park in the available spaces or alongside the road if necessary, and locate the trail near the middle of the parking lot in the trees.
The Hike
Starting from the trailhead, follow a gentle but steady incline along a washed-out stream bed, traversing a healthy pine forest with one easy stream crossing. This section of the trail, although uneventful, is beautiful in its own right.
After 2.3 miles, you'll hit the beginning of the aspen grove and a larger stream crossing. Balance is required, but most hikers won't have issues. After this crossing, the trail offers a beautiful view of the massive aspen grove on Geneva Mountain, which stands at 12,333 feet.
Continue through more aspens and be on the lookout for wildlife, particularly moose, which can add to the magic of this hike but require awareness and cautious awareness. You'll notice the aspens change colors throughout this section, showcasing yellows, oranges, reds, and even purples.
Reach your turnaround point at the next creek crossing, which marks the 3-mile mark (or 6 miles roundtrip). Take a break here to enjoy the stunning surroundings before beginning your descent.
Whether you choose to continue on for a longer adventure or return to complete a 6-mile hike, the outstanding aspen groves make Abyss Lake Trail an unforgettable fall hike. Planning your visit outside of peak weekends ensures a more enjoyable experience, with less crowded trail conditions. While the trail is rated on the easier side of moderate, most able-bodied hikers can tackle this stunning trail with ease.
Happy trekking!
- Immerse yourself in the majestic Rocky Mountains as you embark on a hike at Abyss Lake Trail, a trail that offers numerous outdoor opportunities for wildlife viewing and camping, making it an ideal destination for those embracing an outdoor-living lifestyle.
- As you navigate the Abyss Lake Trail, prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant autumnal hues displayed by the aspen groves and other deciduous trees, creating a breathtaking scenic view that will make your experience unforgettable from late September to early October.
- To reach the trailhead of this Colorado adventure, start by taking 285 towards Grant, then head north on 381 / Geneva Road, followed by locating the large Abyss Trailhead sign, and you'll find the trail nestled in the trees near the middle of the parking lot.
- Along the trail, enjoy the stunning views of aspen groves and be on the lookout for wildlife, such as moose, which can contribute to the magic of this hike while requiring awareness and cautiousness.
- Whether you decide to extend your hike for a longer adventure or turn back to complete a more manageable 6-mile hike, the spectacular aspen groves make Abyss Lake Trail an excellent addition to your home-and-garden or sports itinerary, offering a serene escape amidst the beauty of nature.
