Lots of outdoor adventures start at Monarch Lake Trailhead. Voters picked it as the best trail system in Best of Grand for 2024. No matter your ability level — whether you want to take a scenic jaunt by the water or head to remote wilderness — begin at Monarch Lake. 

“It is one of the most accessible short loops in the county that rewards visitors with seemingly endless views of a beautiful lake with a background of dramatic peaks and mountains,” Headwaters Trails Alliance field manager Sean Burke said. “The trail also acts as a critical access point to some of the most popular backpacking destinations in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. All of this combined with wildlife viewing and lake activities make Monarch Lake one of Grand County’s treasures.”

The Monarch Lake area has plenty of amenities, while also feeling remote. There is close access to towns, plus ample parking and restrooms. It’s also the perfect starting point to a
backcountry wilderness trek.

The lake is named after the town of Monarch, which is now submerged under Lake Granby. Monarch Lake was created next to the town by damming the confluence of Arapaho Creek with the south fork of the Colorado River. When hiking around the lake, you may spot old relics of the town, including a boiler and a flume that used to transport logs.

For every adventurer, a vast and beautiful trail system awaits around the lake and beyond.

This story previously published in the 2024 edition of Best of Grand magazine.