Trekking to America's tallest alpine lake, renowned for breathtaking vistas.
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's White River National Forest lies Pacific Tarn, a glacial lake on the eastern crest of Pacific Peak in the Tenmile Range. This hidden gem is often voted one of the prettiest towns in the U.S., and Pacific Tarn is no exception, offering spectacular views of surrounding peaks and wildflower-covered valleys.
To access Pacific Tarn, the recommended route is via the steep Pacific Tarn Trail, starting near Red Cliff. This trail, though challenging, leads hikers directly to the high-elevation lake (around 13,420 feet). The trailhead is accessible via Forest Road 177, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The hike is strenuous, climbing through alpine meadows and high elevation. The trail is approximately 11.6 miles long, taking around eight hours to complete. Limited free parking is available at Spruce Creek Trailhead, but parking costs from $10 up to $55 depending on time slots and dates.
For those seeking a different adventure, the McCullough Gulch Trail near Breckenridge is another popular trail, leading to McCullough Gulch Creek and waterfalls rather than Pacific Tarn. However, the Pacific Peak and Pacific Tarn via McCullough Gulch Trail is a popular 12.3-mile loop, taking around seven hours to complete.
White River National Forest, home to Pacific Tarn, covers 2.3 million acres and contains eight wilderness areas. The forest is teeming with wildlife, including moose, black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, and ospreys.
If you're planning a trip to Pacific Tarn, it's essential to prepare for the challenging terrain and check local trail conditions. Detailed local maps or guides can be found from the White River National Forest visitor centers or online Colorado hiking resources focusing on the Tenmile Range area.
For those who enjoy documenting their adventures, YouTuber Dave Spates has documented his hike to Pacific Tarn on his channel. The trail offers beautiful views through pine and aspen forests, making it a worthwhile journey for any avid hiker.
In addition to hiking, White River National Forest offers various outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting, fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The nearby town of Breckenridge, a popular base for exploring the area, is home to the famous 15-foot tall statue, Isak Heartstone, lovingly created from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Whether you're an experienced climber or a novice hiker, Pacific Tarn offers a unique and challenging adventure in the heart of Colorado's stunning Rocky Mountains.
- Embracing outdoor-living and home-and-garden blended, you could stay in Breckenridge – a base town for exploring White River National Forest – where the famous 15-foot tall statue, Isak Heartstone, made from recycled materials, resides.
- After a strenuous hike to Pacific Tarn, immerse in your lifestyle of documenting adventures – join YouTuber Dave Spates, who captures his journeys, including his expedition to Pacific Tarn, on his channel.
