Thunder Lake Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

From the Wild Basin Trailhead, follow the trail to a junction with the Bluebird Lake Trail and Thunder Lake Trail - keep right to start up the Thunder Lake Trail.

The trail climbs up the North Saint Vrain Creek drainage between Mount Orton and Mahana Peak. The initial grade is manageable, but it steepens significantly after about one mile. As you continue paralleling the North St. Vrain, the trail ascends higher up the drainages northern wall flank.

At about 1.75 miles in, the Lion Lake Trail will branch off to the right (north). Continue on the Thunder Lake Trail for roughly one more mile and you'll crest a ridge before descending slightly to the shores of Thunder Lake.

Enjoy the views of the lake and decide whether to continue on, or turn around. The next portion of trail leading to the Lake of Many Winds is certainly the most difficult. However, this beautiful alpine lake is a fraction of the size of Thunder Lake and sits directly below Boulder-Grand Pass - beautiful.