A Tough Trek Yields America's Peak Lake, Offering Breathtaking Alpine Landscapes
Exploring Pacific Tarn in Colorado: A Guide to Hiking, Camping, and Wildlife
Nestled in the heart of White River National Forest, Pacific Tarn offers a unique and challenging hiking experience for experienced climbers. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your adventure.
Trail Route
The best trail route to Pacific Tarn is generally accessed via the South Elbert Trailhead, a common starting point for hikes toward Mount Elbert and nearby alpine lakes. One popular route involves a hike up the Mount Elbert Trail and summit, followed by a cross-country return via Twin Lakes, totaling approximately 13.5 miles with significant elevation gain (~4,500 ft). This route offers breathtaking alpine scenery and access to tarns like Pacific Tarn due to its proximity to Mount Elbert's summit [1].
Parking
The South Elbert Trailhead has parking available for hikers, but since Pacific Tarn is in a high alpine area with limited direct access, it’s ideal to use official trailhead parking lots where permitted. Early arrival is often recommended during peak season to secure parking spots. No special permits are typically required for this Colorado hike, but checking with local forest service offices or ranger stations before your trip is advised to confirm parking rules, trail conditions, and any permit requirements [1].
Exploring Breckenridge
The nearby town of Breckenridge, often voted one of the prettiest towns in the U.S., serves as a popular base for exploring the area. Its historic main street offers a large selection of restaurants and boutiques. A notable attraction is Isak Heartstone, a 15-foot tall statue made from recycled materials, located in the town.
Activities in White River National Forest
White River National Forest is not just about hiking. It offers various activities such as canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting, and fishing. The forest is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, ospreys, and a species of salmonid fish in Pacific Tarn.
Pacific Peak and Pacific Tarn Trail
Pacific Peak, near Pacific Tarn, falls a few feet short of 14,000 feet tall, making it a challenging climb best suited to experienced climbers. For those seeking a video guide, Dave Spates has a YouTube video showcasing the Pacific Peak and Pacific Tarn trail.
Camping and Off-Road Vehicles
Plenty of camping options are available in White River National Forest, with dispersed camping spots available before the ascent to Pacific Tarn. Designated areas for off-road vehicles are also available within the forest.
Other Trails in the Area
Other popular trails in the area include the Mohawk Lake to Pacific Peak and Crystal Peak trail, a strenuous 11.8-mile loop, and the 11.6-mile Pacific Peak, Crystal, Father Dyer Loop starting from the Spruce Creek Trailhead.
Shuttle Services
For those planning to hike Quandary Peak or McCullough Gulch, a shuttle service is available from Breckenridge to the parking lots. Reservations can be made at hikequandary.com, and dogs can ride for free.
Accessing Pacific Tarn
Access to the Pacific Tarn's nearest trailhead is around a 17-minute drive from Breckenridge, and just under two hours from Denver. Pacific Tarn, located in Colorado’s Tenmile Range, is the highest named lake in the U.S., with a maximum elevation of 13,420 feet. With its crystal-clear waters stretching 560 feet long by 464 feet wide and a maximum depth of 28 feet, Pacific Tarn is a must-visit destination for any avid hiker.
[1] CalTopo summary: https://caltopo.com/m/643K
- After exploring Pacific Tarn, an alpine lake in Colorado's Tenmile Range, consider venturing to Breckenridge, a picturesque town known for its charming main street, diverse dining options, and boutique shops.
- For those seeking a more immersive outdoor lifestyle, White River National Forest offers activities beyond hiking; canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and off-road vehicle exploration are also popular options, along with the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as moose, black bears, bald eagles, and a species of salmonid fish in Pacific Tarn.
