ST. MARY’S GLACIER - Idaho Springs Area, CO
Location: St. Mary’s Glacier Hike in Arapahoe National Forest near Idaho Springs, Colorado
Distance: 1.9 mile out + back
Notes: Very rocky, dogs allowed on leash, $5 to park
St. Mary’s Glacier ranks at the top of alltrails for good reason. An uphill rocky hike grants huge rewards with a beautiful glacier and panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. It’s about an hour drive from Denver. Be sure to park in the lots and not on the streets or undesignated places as fines aren’t small.
We’ve enjoyed hiking St. Mary’s Glacier in both the heat of summer and cold of winter—both which were beautiful! In the winter, a small hut was at the trail head parking lot with a guy giving out a cold brew. Not sure if this is normal but it’s definitely ‘how you Colorado.’ The hike up was beautiful but I recommend having the right clothes and shoes to not allow wetness inside your boots as it can be deep. At the top, the lake was covered with snow but still offered beautiful views.
In the summer, parking can get full (just like most hikes in Colorado during this season). Be sure to get there early to avoid waiting for a spot. The ascend is rocky but offers shade under the trees. About a mile up you’ll come to the clean, clear lake. It’s a great spot to take a dip or have lunch. Most people don’t adventure further but I recommend hiking up to the top of the glacier. It offers incredible views and beats to be away from the crowds. Often times you’ll see true outdoor enthusiasts snowboarding or skiing down the little patch of snow left on the glacier. It’s always fun to watch.
