Alta Lakes consists of three high alpine lakes nestled in the mountains past the ghost town of Alta. Alta Lakes offers dispersed camping (in designated spots only), paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and so much more. The Alta Lakes Observatory is situated on the third lake, which is private, and is available for rentals. Alta Lakes is also a great spot in the winter for fat biking, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Directions:

Alta Lakes Road is 6 miles south of Telluride on Hwy. 145. Take the left-hand turn, and stay on the main road for four miles to reach the ghost town of Alta. To get to the lakes, turn right at the town and follow the signs to Alta Lakes. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.    

Additionally, Boomerang Trail can be accessed from either Prospect Trail or Basin Trail, following a Forest Service road approximately two miles to scenic Alta Lakes and the historic mining town of Alta. The Alta Lakes area is managed by the USFS.