Baldwin Lake - Nathrop (Buena Vista), CO
Baldwin Lake Trail, located near Nathrop and the historic town of St. Elmo, offers dirt bikers a challenging yet rewarding alpine adventure. This out-and-back trail ascends to approximately 12,000 feet, providing riders with breathtaking views above the treeline, encounters with local wildlife like marmots, and the serene beauty of alpine lakes and waterfalls. The trail's rocky and narrow sections demand technical skill, making it suitable for experienced riders seeking a high-altitude thrill. With its combination of natural beauty and riding challenge, Baldwin Lake Trail is a must-ride for those exploring Colorado's rugged backcountry. This is NOT singletrack, but more of a doubletrack/jeep road.
Baldwin Lake Trail Overview
Trail Name: Baldwin Lake Trail
Location: Near Nathrop and St. Elmo, west of Buena Vista, CO
Trail Type: Out-and-back *Additional Info: FunTreks+7Colorado Camping and Dirt Biking+7Colorado Camping and Dirt Biking+7
Length: Approximately 11 miles round trip
Elevation Range: Approximately 9,400 ft to 12,000 ft. *Additional Info: 14ers.com+1jeeptheusa.com+1
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult *Additional Info: jeeptheusa.com
Trail Surface: Rocky, with steep and narrow sections
Permitted Uses: Dirt biking, hiking, 4WD vehicles
Best Season: July through September
Land Status: San Isabel National Forest
Trailhead Access
Starting Point: Baldwin Gulch Trailhead *Additional Info: 14ers.com
Coordinates: 38.71002° N, -106.29163° W
Directions: From the junction of U.S. 285 and U.S. 24, south of Buena Vista, drive 5.5 miles south on U.S. 285 and turn west on Chaffee County Road 162. Continue approximately 12.5 miles to the signed Baldwin Gulch Jeep Road (also listed as 277 Road) on the left.14ers.com
Parking: Limited pull-offs available near the trailhead
Facilities: No restrooms or amenities at the trailhead
Trail Highlights
Scenery: Ascend through alpine meadows to Baldwin Lake, offering panoramic views of surrounding peaks and opportunities to spot wildlife such as marmots
Terrain: Challenging sections with rocky surfaces, steep inclines, and narrow paths14ers.com+2jeeptheusa.com+2FunTreks+2
Points of Interest: Baldwin Lake, historic mining areas, and potential fishing spots for cutthroat trout
