Top 8 Scenic Spots Near Telluride
# 2 - Trout Lake

The Details

LOCATION: Approximately 8-1/2 miles south of the Telluride traffic circle on the east side of Colorado 145

LAST VISIT: 2023

DOES IT REQUIRE HIKING/WALKING: No, there is a small parking lot at the lake

DOES IT REQUIRE 4WD/HIGH CLEARANCE: No

We seemed to end up a Trout Lake frequently. No matter when we drove by, from sunrise to mid-day, to sunset, it seemed to always look picturesque and deserve a stop! While Trout Lake is always a great place to stop and enjoy the scenery, it was not a good place to stop and use the facilities. Every time we were there, the vault toilets were dirty and gross, and they didn't always have toilet paper. We would highly recommend driving to the Lizard Head Pass Rest Area, approximately 2-1/2 miles south of Trout Lake on Colorado 145 if you are looking for that type of stop. But if you are looking for an easily accessible scenic spot that looks great at any time of day, Trout Lake is right off of Colorado 145, and a wonderful place to stop for some photographs or a picnic.