Fishing · Silverton, CO

Lake San Cristobal

easyFeaturedSpring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Telluride, 28 mi

Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 5:03 pm.

29°

Clear

Feels like 24°

Wind

5 mph ESE

UV index

0 low

Sun window

6:41 am to 5:03 pm

Distance

—

Elevation gain

832ft

High point

9,790ft

Season

Apr - Oct

About

Lake San Cristobal is a high-alpine lake near Lake City, Colorado, formed by the Slumgullion Earthflow landslide. It is Colorado’s second-largest natural body of water, sitting at approximately 9,000 feet elevation. The lake supports a mixed trout fishery, with Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocking rainbow, brown, and kokanee salmon. Brown trout are noted as strong fighters that move to shallows in spring and deeper water in summer. Access is straightforward from Highway 149, with public fishing available from the shore and boat ramps on the west side. Wupperman Campground on the east side provides additional bank access. The fishery operates year-round, with ice fishing in winter and active bank or boat fishing in warmer months.

Trail profile

Gain

832 ft

Avg grade

—

Steepest

—

High point

9,790 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Restrooms available

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Main Access Point9,000 ft

2Secondary Access Point8,978 ft

3Riffle 29,790 ft

4Scenic Overlook8,958 ft

Latest water reportfair

Spring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified

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Nearby spots

ModerateIn Season

8,727'

2 hr