Little Molas Lake

For those of us living in Colorado, who truly appreciate the untamed beauty of our mountains, Little Molas Lake stands out as a genuine treasure. Nestled high in the majestic San Juan National Forest, this campground offers an authentic alpine experience with views that will quite simply take your breath away. If you're seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, where the air is crisp, the water is clear, and the scenery is beyond compare, Little Molas Lake is a destination that should be at the top of your list.

At an elevation of approximately 10,900 to 11,000 feet above sea level, Little Molas Lake provides a truly high-altitude adventure. This means cooler temperatures even in the height of summer, making it a refreshing retreat. It’s a popular spot for a reason, attracting hikers, anglers, and anyone eager to soak in the incredible natural surroundings. The reflective views of the lake, framed by wildflowers and distant peaks, are often described as astonishing, drawing not only campers but also day users, including those taking wedding photos—a testament to its captivating beauty. While it’s a coveted spot that fills up quickly, the effort to secure a site is undeniably worth it for the unforgettable memories and unparalleled natural immersion it provides.

Little Molas Lake is conveniently located within the San Juan National Forest, right off US-550, the famed "Million Dollar Highway," near Silverton, CO 81433, USA. Specifically, it's about one mile west of US Highway 550 on Molas Pass, just north of the Molas Overlook. Its proximity to Silverton (around 5 miles) means that while you feel completely immersed in nature, you're not too far from town amenities should you need supplies or a bite to eat.

Accessing Little Molas Lake involves a roughly one-mile unpaved road. While described by some as rough with ruts, it is generally considered passable by 2WD passenger cars, provided you drive slowly and cautiously. However, having higher clearance can certainly make the journey more comfortable. Given its high elevation, it's crucial to be aware of weather conditions, especially outside of peak summer months. Snow can persist on the road well into late spring and can arrive early in the fall, potentially impacting accessibility. The campground's location also offers direct access to the Colorado Trail (Segment 24), making it an ideal base for avid hikers and backpackers looking to explore one of the state's most iconic long-distance trails.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are consistently noted by visitors as being very clean and well-maintained, often with minimal odor. It's important to remember that these are not flush toilets and there is no running water in them.
• No Potable Water: Campers should be prepared to bring all their own drinking water, as there is no potable water available directly at the campsites. However, potable water can be obtained at the Molas Lake Office and Store, a short drive away.
• No Showers or Hookups: Little Molas Lake is a primitive campground, meaning there are no showers, electricity, or water hookups at individual sites. This contributes to its rustic, off-grid appeal. Hot showers may be available for a fee at Molas Lake Park and Campground nearby.
• Fire Grates: Each campsite generally includes a fire grate for campfires (always check for fire bans before lighting a fire). However, there are no picnic tables at the individual sites, so campers should plan accordingly.
• Hitching Posts: Some campsites are equipped with hitching posts for horses, catering to equestrian campers.
• Ample Day Use Parking: For those visiting just for the day to hike or fish, there is ample day use parking available.

• Stunning Scenic Beauty: Little Molas Lake is consistently praised for its fantastic and astonishing views, offering reflective scenes of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's truly one of the most beautiful places many visitors have ever experienced.
• High-Altitude Environment: At around 10,900 to 11,000 feet, the campground provides a unique alpine experience, with cool temperatures and clear mountain air, ideal for escaping summer heat.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, adding to its authentic, spontaneous adventure feel. However, this also means it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
• Hiking Trail Access: It boasts direct access to segments of the Colorado Trail, making it a prime spot for hikers and backpackers looking to explore extensive high-country trails.
• Fishing Opportunities: The lake is stocked with trout by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, making it a popular spot for fishing. Anglers should bring rubber boots if they plan to fish the edges, as the area around the lake can be boggy.
• Non-Motorized Boating: The tiny lake is perfect for canoes and kayaks (non-motorized hand-launched crafts are allowed), offering a peaceful way to explore the water.
• Wildlife Viewing: The serene environment provides opportunities for wildlife sightings, including elk bugling in season.
• Tent and Smaller Rig Friendly: The campsites are suitable for tents and smaller campers, though not typically for large rigs, allowing for a more intimate camping experience.

Address: San Juan National Forest, US-550, Silverton, CO 81433, USA

As a primitive, first-come, first-served campground, specific contact information for Little Molas Lake itself isn't typically available as you might find for a developed campground. For general inquiries about the San Juan National Forest and current conditions, you can contact the local Forest Service office. While no direct phone for Little Molas Lake campground is provided, for information regarding the San Juan National Forest, you might contact the Columbine Ranger District which manages parts of the San Juan National Forest.

For Colorado locals, Little Molas Lake is more than just a campground; it’s an iconic high-country escape that truly embodies the spirit of our state’s outdoor culture. Its first-come, first-served policy, while challenging for planning, appeals to the adventurous and spontaneous side of Coloradoans, rewarding those who are willing to arrive early and seek out a prime spot. This often results in a more authentic and less commercialized camping experience, which many locals cherish.

The lack of extensive amenities, such as running water and electricity at the campsites, is not a drawback but rather an invitation for a more traditional and self-reliant camping adventure. It encourages visitors to truly disconnect and appreciate the raw beauty of the wilderness, a value deeply ingrained in the Colorado lifestyle. The incredibly clean vault toilets are a testament to the care taken by the Forest Service and the respectful nature of its visitors, ensuring comfort even in a primitive setting.

Furthermore, its direct access to the Colorado Trail means that hiking and exploring the vast San Juan National Forest are literally at your doorstep. For those who enjoy fishing, the stocked lake provides an added recreational bonus. The high elevation is a significant draw for locals looking to escape the heat of lower elevations during summer and embrace the brisk, refreshing mountain air. The breathtaking scenery, so stunning that it attracts wedding photographers, speaks volumes about its undeniable charm. While it does stay busy, particularly on weekends, the diligent local understands that an early start or a weekday visit can secure one of these coveted spots. Little Molas Lake is a testament to Colorado’s natural grandeur, offering an unparalleled opportunity for locals to immerse themselves in the pristine, awe-inspiring landscapes that make our state so special.

Learn more about camping in the San Juan National Forest in this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJc1x7kNGZ4).

Little Molas Lake

San Juan National Forest, US-550, Silverton, CO 81433, USA