Grouse Lake Trail
Distance
4.5 miles (one way)Difficulty
AdvancedCrowds
ModerateGrouse Lake trail begins on a logging road but turns to singletrack after 0.3 mile. At the signed junction with West Grouse Creek trail at 1 mile, keep left. The trail continues climbing through mixed forests and provides access to the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake. If camping overnight, please visit the Ranger Station to learn about Holy Cross Wilderness regulations.
To avoid trampling sensitive vegetation and to prevent soil erosion, please stay on the trail at all times. Dogs are permitted; while they do not need to be on leash, they do need to be under verbal control in order to protect wildlife and the hiking experience of other trail users. This trail enters the Holy Cross Wilderness – regulations are posted at the trailhead.
Trail Adopted By: Michael Dunahay & Associates
Show Your Love for Vail Trails
Hiking in Vail goes hand in hand with caring for our pristine natural environment. Here’s how you can do your part!
Stay on the Trail
No shortcuts - going off trail compromises trail construction, kills the vegetation, increases soil erosion and may result in reduced water quality.
Pack Out Trash
Stash it until you can trash it - anything you bring with you, you must pack back out! Trash can hurt wildlife and contaminate water ways.
Dog Do's and Don'ts
Do pick up the doo – pack out all dog poop. Don’t let dogs off leash – this is to protect them from wildlife and wildlife from them.
Respect Wildlife
Give them space - observe wildlife from a distance and do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals as it can alter their behavior.
Plan Ahead
Take the trail less traveled - there are over a hundred miles of hiking trails in the Vail area! Use the trail guide to discover area trails and whenever possible ride a bike or take a FREE Town of Vail bus to the trailhead.
Driving Directions
Access: Travel west on I-70 to exit 171 for Minturn, Leadville, and Highway 24. Merge right and follow Highway 24 south for approximately 1 mile. Trailhead is on right side of the road.
Dogs & Leashes
On all trails that enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, as well as on the North Trail, DOGS ARE REQUIRED TO BE ON A PHYSICAL LEASH. If you would like to hike with your dog off leash, there are several areas you can go, such as any trail, aside from the North Trail, that does not enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, as well as dog parks within the Town of Vail. Remember that, no matter where you are, when in public, your dog needs to be under verbal control. Also, if you use a provided dog waste bag, please remember to carry it out with you. The bags are not biodegradable.