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Details

Fishing · Telluride, CO

Trout Lake

easySpring 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, 10 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:12 pm.

51°

Smoky

Feels like 51°

Trailhead temp

48° est. at 9,700 ft

Wind

5 mph ESE

UV index

0 low

Sun window

6:22 am to 8:12 pm

San Miguel River near Placerville is running 54 cfs.

Distance

Elevation gain

20ft

High point

9,720ft

Season

Apr - Octpeak now

About

Trout Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake located approximately 14 to 15 miles south of Telluride on Highway 145, sitting at an elevation of 9,700 to 9,716 feet within the Uncompahgre National Forest. The site is historically significant as a former refueling station for the Rio Grande Southern Railroad, evidenced by a surviving water tank and the Trout Lake Trestle, which is listed on the Register of Historic Properties. Fishing is accessible from the shore using waders or from non-motorized boats, with species including brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. The lake serves as a popular, easy-access destination suitable for beginners and families, offering parking and allowing pets. While fishing occurs year-round, the primary season for visitors is April through October. The area is prone to private residences, so anglers should avoid private property.

Trail profile

Gain

20 ft

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

9,720 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Main Access Point9,700 ft
2Secondary Access Point9,702 ft
3Shore Access 29,717 ft
4Riffle 39,720 ft
5Scenic Overlook9,710 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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