About this campground
Both Lower and Upper Slate Lakes are set in the spectacular scenery of the Gore Range in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. In the lower part of Slate Creek drainage you can enjoy open sagebrush meadows, Aspen trees groves and the creek. The trail then climbs steadily up to both lakes. Because of the distance of these lakes from the trailhead, most people access this area by backpacking so they can enjoy multiple days in the area. Access for the day is possible but will be a full day. * There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which is complete with directions, a map, details, and other information about this trail. Or to see quicksheets for other recreation areas across the Forest, click on the "Recreation Quicksheets" link in the right column and select the appropriate Ranger District.
Getting there
From I-70 take Exit 205, Silverthorne / Dillon, and travel north on HWY 9 for approximately 7.7 miles. On your left will be Rock Creek Road (FDR 1350) across from the Blue River Campground. Follow the dirt road for approximately 1.2 miles and turn left at the road marked “Rock Creek”. Follow this road approximately 1.7 miles to the Rock Creek Trailhead which is at the end of the road.
Activities
- HIKING
- FISHING
- HORSEBACK RIDING
Nearby federal campgrounds
Explore more Colorado camping
Lower/Upper Slate Lakes #65 doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby Colorado campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.
Browse Colorado camping →Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.