Skip to main content
FacilityFacilityRecreation.gov

Blair Lake #2048

New Castle, Colorado · Garfield County · Facility

The Blair Lake Trail leads visitors into the southern edge of the Flat Tops Wilderness. The trail runs through spruce forest and open meadows, and passes by several scenic mountain lakes. The northern end of the trail also provides majestic views of Crater Lake, Blair Mountain and the surrounding Wilderness area. This …

Advertisement
39.81346, -107.40718
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Blair Lake #2048

The Blair Lake Trail leads visitors into the southern edge of the Flat Tops Wilderness. The trail runs through spruce forest and open meadows, and passes by several scenic mountain lakes. The northern end of the trail also provides majestic views of Crater Lake, Blair Mountain and the surrounding Wilderness area. This portion of the Forest is very remote and rugged, creating an outstanding opportunity for a peaceful and rewarding outdoor experience.The Blair Lake Trail is 6.2 miles long. It can be accessed from the north via the Crater Trailhead (off Forest Road 647) and from the south via the Patterson Creek Trailhead (off Forest Road 601). Crater Lake is 1.4 miles from the Crater Trailhead, though reaching the lake requires an elevation loss of almost 1,000 feet. On the south end of the trail, Jet Lake is 2.2 miles from the Patterson Creek Trailhead, with minimal elevation change.This trail is open to foot and horse travel. The southern end of this trail is an active sheep grazing allotment during the summer. Please do not approach or harass the herd. If approached by a sheep guardian dog: remain calm and quiet, slowly leave the area, and firmly tell the dog “No” or “Go Back.”

How to Get There

Visitors are encouraged to use a high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle when accessing this trail.View driving directions to either the Crater Trailhead (north end) or the Patterson Creek Trailhead (south end).

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Blair Lake #2048

Heading to Blair Lake #2048? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Blair Lake #2048?

No central reservation system listed for Blair Lake #2048. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10087633) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Blair Lake #2048?

Visitors are encouraged to use a high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle when accessing this trail.View driving directions to either the Crater Trailhead (north end) or the Patterson Creek Trailhead (south end).