Weller Lake Description

Weller Lake is an incredibly scenic alpine lake located at 9,555 feet elevation within the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness of the White River National Forest, approximately 7.5 miles southeast of Aspen in Pitkin County. Visitors must take Highway 82 along Independence Pass to reach the Weller Lake Trailhead parking area, with the route closed seasonally and typically accessible from May to late September. The lake is free to visit, though parking may be limited during peak seasons.

The Weller Lake trail begins across the highway from Weller Campground and ascends about a half mile up the mountain to reach the lake. This popular family hike leads to a pristine wilderness setting where crystal-clear waters reflect surrounding mountain peaks. The banks are strewn with basalt boulders, making it difficult to reach the water’s edge in most places. Fishing for native cutthroat and brown trout is available at Weller Lake and the nearby Roaring Fork River located next to the parking area, with a valid Colorado fishing license required. The wilderness designation prohibits motorized vehicles, ensuring a serene experience with untouched alpine beauty.

Weller Lake offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with warblers, tanagers, crossbills, sapsuckers, willows, woodpeckers, and jays calling the area home. Wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and deer may also be seen near the lake. Visitors should not approach wildlife and dogs must be kept on leash at all times. Across from the trailhead, the National Forest Service maintains Weller Campground with 11 semi-developed campsites available first-come, first-served for a small overnight fee with a five-day stay limit. The campground operates from May until late September with vault toilets, drinking water, trash services, picnic tables, and fire pits. Backcountry camping is available within the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness surrounding Weller Lake with limited campsites and no fires permitted, only camp stoves. Backpackers must pack in and pack out all belongings.

Services: Hiking Trails, Fishing, Birdwatching, Wildlife Viewing, Camping, Backcountry Camping, Family Hiking
Category: Outdoor
Features: Family, HIking, Nature
Address: Weller Lake, Aspen, CO 81210
Directions: View on Google Maps