Deluge Lake Trail
Town of Vail Hiking Information for Deluge Lake Trail
Length: 4.3 miles (one way) Difficulty: Most Difficult
The Deluge Lake Trail splits from the Gore Creek Trail about 0.1 mile from the Gore Creek trailhead. Take this left onto the narrow trail which heads north before curving and heading northeast the rest of the way. The trail will pass through several boulder fields, and then cling to a very steep slope as it climbs through aspen woods. The trail climbs very steeply for the first 3 miles, gaining about 2,500 feet. At mile 3.2, the trail drops to Deluge Creek where you cross Deluge Creek. The trail is gentler now, and you can follow the creek to the lake where view to the Sawatch Range and Mount of the Holy Cross emerge.
To avoid trampling sensitive vegetation and to prevent soil erosion, please stay on the trail at all times. Dogs are permitted, but must be kept on a leash in order to protect wildlife and the hiking experience of other trail users. This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness – regulations are posted at the trailhead. For a map of the trail, please visit Hiking Project.
Crowds: This is a very popular trail at certain times of the season and parking can be very limited. Please consider other hiking trails listed on this page if this trail is likely to be very busy.
Access: Parking is very limited at the trailhead; do not park in undesignated areas. We strongly encourage taking the free East Vail blue line shuttle, which runs every 30 minutes, from the Vail Transportation Center to the Main Gore / Bighorn stop. Walk east 1/3 of a mile up Bighorn Road (under the overpass) to the trailhead.
Details: Including directions, a map, and other information can be found on this printable Recreation Quicksheet from the Forest Service.
Trail Adopted By: Eagle Summit Wilderness Alliance