linkins lake trail

206scottn

The trail-head is at the hairpin turn before the main overlook spot at independence pass. not a super difficult hike (im 28 and in decent shape). I went with my fiance and we were the only people on the mountain, which was a nice change from some of the crowded hikes. When you get to the lake, look to the left and you will see a trail going up the side of the mountain. If you follow this up it will lead you to an abandon cabin and old mine. it will also give you an awesome view of the Rockies and Linkins Lake below. I HIGHLY recommend doing this, its not too much of an extra hike. As a warning, this second portion does get very steep and the trail does get harder to follow. If I figured it out, i imagine everyone else could too. the hike took us about three hours but we took our time.

nagek

Anyone who is looking for peace of mind should definitely look for this trail, it is somewhat steep, very close to Independence pass, but, once you reach the top, you will get a spectacular view of lake and it is absolutely quiet at the top, perfect for meditation

worldtravellerZG

This hike brings you out of Aspen up Independence Pass, so you are already going to see amazing views. The trail is somewhat vertical, and not too long, but a good workout. What you will see is beautiful views, waterfalls, flora and fauna, and a glacier lake surrounded by mountains. This is one of my favorite places to hike on a sunny day.

AnneT475

If views are your thing, than the entire Independence Pass in general is for you. And, so is this trail. Located less than a mile from the west side of the pass, the trailhead parking is small, but you can park on either side of the road so you should be ok. Views open up almost from the first as you head up the trail along an alpine stream. The views just get better and better as you climb higher, especially after you leave the Lost Man Trail after 0.1 miles. The trail is steep (you'll be gaining about 500 feet in 0.6 miles), but that just means that you have more time to look at the views while you rest often. Finally, you top out at the lake, which is pretty nice with cliffs all around. Definitely recommended if you're looking for a short hike (<3 miles) in the Independence Pass area.

Thomas_Wilde

This is a moderately difficult walk for those of us not acclimated to the high elevation. Nothing technical but your lungs will let you know you are at 12,000 feet! Beautiful vista from most of the trail. It is located just before Independence Pass (another must see) coming from Aspen. Bring some water, maybe a picnic. Definitely worth it!

vacation_lover-7

This hike was great, through lots of alpine meadows in beautiful bloom. However, the best part was that we followed the ranger's advice - after viewing the lake, instead of getting back on "main" trail, you will see a smaller trail heading farther up the mountain. This path leads up to an abandoned mining camp and we kept climbing up to the snow lines. The view was so amazing and there was no one up there. Like most hikes, you want to do this in the morning as it is in the sun, no shade, and there is a better chance of rain/thunderstorms in the early afternoon. Highly recommend - it was one of our favorite hikes due to alpine meadows and vista views.

YellowFinch4927

This is a lovely easy trail up to a clear lake containing rainbow trout. Quite high up and close to and in sight of Independence Pass and the continental divide. The views are lovely, almost pastoral , as you are above the tree line. The best part of this hike, however , are the flowers. Everywhere one sees paintbrush, monkshood, columbine, bistort, queens crown, and marsh marigolds. The Master Gardener above has such a fine touch! I felt peaceful and blessed in this "thin place".

MEMDallas

Starts at 11,506 ft elevation and goes to 12,008 ft at the lake. The wildflowers are gorgeous in July.

maturetraveler9

This is a short hike to an alpine lake. There are few hikers so one can find solitude on this trail.

relkdl

This is a great little trail to acclimate to the high altitude before attempting one of the longer hikes (Lost Man Loop). It will take about 30 minutes of steady climbing before you come upon a beautiful alpine lake, have some lunch watching the sun reflect on the shimmering water, and head back down.

65plus

Short, steep trail to small mountain lake near Independence Pass, views all around

Peter_Plantec

You may have trouble breathing up here, some of it is above tree line, but many the experience is incomparable.

Andy_the_diver

This is a great quick hike that starts just off highway 82. Roundtrip is 1.25 miles and will take about 1 hour. Elevation gain is about 500 feet from trailhead at 11,505 feet to the lake at 12,015 feet. There are great views of peaks on the Continental Divide and the very peaceful lake! The whole hike is above timberline. Wait until July to do this hike or it may be snowed in due to late snowmelt at this altitude. I did this hike in October and there was a small amount of snow on the trail. Hiking boots were fine -- no need for crampons. Make sure you dress warmly. Start early in the day to avoid possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. Directions to trailhead: take highway 82 east from Aspen 18 miles to 0.2 miles past mile marker 59. Parking area is on hairpin turn on the road.