Buckles Lake and Harris Lake Trail Hike

The Buckles Lake trail is a relatively flat and easy trail, making it suitable for the entire family. Buckles Lake is a short distance from the trailhead and a great stopping point if you are hiking with small children. The trail continues past Buckles Lake to Harris Lake. Both Buckles and Harris Lakes are reservoirs where you can find Cutthroat and Brown trout. If you like fishing, the lakes are good options with calm water and plenty of room to cast.

• Elevation Start: 9485ft
• Elevation at Peak: 9646ft
• Trail: Out and Back
• Trail Length: 4 miles total
• Allowed: Hiking, Dogs, and Horses
• Buckles Lake Trail #688

Timing is important on this hike. During the summer, water is diverted for community use, and as a result water levels will be lowered. Even though the water levels can be low in late summer, the surrounding views are still quite nice, and the bird watching is great. Early summer provides the best views of the lakes themselves, but the lakes are not the only thing of beauty on this trail. The trail meanders through aspen groves where you will find countless numbers of columbines in blooom. This trail is also beautiful during the fall when the aspens are at their peak. Not only are the aspens beautiful, but the oak brush turn to spectacular oranges. The combination of the bright yellow aspens and the orange oak brush make for an amazing backdrop for both lakes. Buckles Lake and Harris Lake are very good options to hike during the summer and fall seasons.

Overall, the hike is relatively flat, but it does undulate in sections of up and downs. Most of the hike is tree-covered and shady until reaching the lakes where the trail opens up. The shade will be much appreciated during the warmer months.

Directions to Buckles Lake and Harris Lake Trail Hike

Buckles Lake Trailhead is 55 minutes from downtown Pagosa Springs Colorado. Drive south on US84 for 20 miles where you will see a sign for Buckles Lake. Turn left on FS 663 and continue for 6.3 miles. At the split, stay right and drive another .7 miles to the trailhead. The trailhead is shared with the V Rock Trail trailhead.

Google Maps directions to Buckles Lake Trailhead