Diamond Lake is located 2.65 miles from the Fourth of July Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. It's one of the area's most popular alpine lakes, sought for its abundant flowers, excellent fishing and numerous backcountry campsites.

Sedge jetties on the far side of Diamond Lake (10,940')

Approximately 35% of the Indian Peaks Wilderness is located above treeline

Large grassy meadows mark the final approach to Diamond Lake

There are numerous campsites at Diamond Lake, but these fill quickly through the summer

Winter snow pack drives spring waterfalls along the North Fork of Middle Boulder Creek

The Diamond Lake outlet turns into a large waterfall visible across the valley on the inital climb

Columbine species can cross-pollinate, producing a variety of hybrids

Diamond Lake covers just over 14 acres

Diamond Lake is also accessible from the Hessie Trailhead on a strenuous 12.45 mile roundtrip route

A social route continues along the inlet to Upper Diamond Lake

Diamond Lake is a popular day hiking destination in the Indian Peaks

View of Mt Neva across the valley on the Diamond Lake Trail

Globe flowers carpet the damp meadows surrounding Diamond Lake

Diamond Lake is stocked with brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout

Elk are typically born late May - early June; newborns weigh about 35 lbs and are spotted and scentless

Colorado Columbine adjacent to Diamond Lake