The Zirkel Circle hike is my favorite hike in the world, and lucky for me it is almost in my backyard (well about 40 minutes north of my backyard). But, to have close access to the Zirkel Wilderness area feels like a dream. The Zirkels are north of Steamboat Springs, close to the border of Wyoming. Their tall, jagged mountains along with high alpine lakes and a multitude of trail system make it a hiker and backpacker dream.
For the Zirkel Circle hike, it encompasses two lakes, a waterfall, multiple creek and stream views, along with a few adventurous stream crossings. The crossings can be tricky in June with the snow melt, but usually by early July there are rocks and logs to carefully walk over. The reason I love it so much is because the 11 mile hike is broken up into sections where every few miles there is something enchanted to encounter.
I like starting the hike by first going to Gold Creek Lake. It is a relatively easy 3 mile hike to the lake. At the lake, unpack a picnic lunch or late breakfast depending on how early you leave. Bring your fly fishing rod and have your catch at some beautiful lake trout. I like to catch and release at the lakes. Or, take a relaxing dip to cool off before the next 3 miles up over the saddle crossing to Gilpin Lake.
Photo: Views of Gold Creek Lake
The most magical part of the hike is reaching the top of the saddle overlooking Gilpin Lake. There are jagged mountains with view of Little Agnes and Big Agnes (the Steamboat-based camping company is named after). Gilpin Lake presents itself with a deep blue and turquoise color water. I love to relax by the lake and take in the views. This is another good picnic spot or area to cast a line and have a catch at the fish.
Photo: Hiking down into Gilpin Lake
To finish off the hike from Gilpin back to the parking area where you started, hike about 4 to 4.5 miles down a beautiful trail through aspen trees along the creek. It declines in elevation from Gilpin down, so it should be a relaxing finish.
I have done the 11 mile Zirkel circle hike several times in various hiking capacities. I have trail run it with my sisters, I have single-day tripped it with relaxing stops at both lakes, and I have done it as a one night backpacking trip. Please note you cannot camp within 1/4 mile of the lake. Depending on the hiker level and amount of stops, plan your length and time accordingly. I recommend an early start, pack layers, plenty of water, food, and a rain coat. Afternoon thunderstorms can come out of the blue and you want to be prepared.
Directions: Drive west out of Steamboat Springs on Hwy. 40 approximately 2 miles and turn right on Elk River Road (County Road 129). Follow CR 129 about 18 miles to Seedhouse Road (NFSR 400; also CR 64) and turn right. Continue for 11 miles to the end at the Slavonia trailhead parking area, where the Gilpin Lake trailhead begins.
Enjoy the hike and let me know if it makes your top 5 hiking list!
