Mohawk Lakes

The Mohawk Lakes Trail is a scenic and historically significant trail for those exploring the Breckenridge area. The trail is accessible from the Spruce Creek Trailhead with additional parking at the Mohawk Lakes Trailhead. The trail from Spruce Creek is a pleasant addition to the hike as it follows the creek through groves of trees and meadows full of deer, elk, and even moose.

The trail continues roughly 2 miles to Mayflower Lakes before it splits off to a steeper climb along raging Continental Falls, which cascades from the lakes above. As the trail switchbacks there are plenty of areas to access and photograph the falls, and views of the valley below become more and more spectacular as you climb. 

The hike also provides access to historical shelters and equipment from the Mayflower Gold Mine, which was established in the late 1880s. Hikers have restored a shelter, the Continental Cabin, which serves as a storm shelter during powerful summer storms and during which lightning strikes are a serious hazard.  

From Continental Cabin the trail continues another half mile to Lower Mohawk Lake at 11,810 feet. The lake has shallow, crystal clear waters with another historic shelter on it's western bank. A few tent sites are available along the lake for those seeking an overnight trip to the area. The water is full of ice cold snow melt, but the spot can be a good for a frigid dip on hot summer days.

From the lower lake, continue on the same trail heading west as you gain elevation to reach Mohawk Lake. The upper lake is a little under a half mile further, and it provides spectacular views down into the valley below. Mohawk Lake appears at eye level as you approach on the trail.

Pacific Peak at 13,950 feet, Crystal Peak at 13,852 feet, and Father Dyer Peak at 13,615 feet surround the upper valley around Mohawk Lake, creating a spectacular view all the way down to the Blue River Valley below.  

Lightning is a serious hazard to hikers during summer storms. Please check weather reports, and be aware of the chance for changing weather.

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Conservation Colorado has worked with communities around the state for over 50 years in pursuit of its mission - to protect Colorado’s environment and quality of life by mobilizing people and electing conservation-minded policymakers. It fights to protect the air, land, water, and people of Colorado. Their collaborative approach and focus on electing pro-conservation officials has yielded successes in addressing climate change, supporting clean energy development, conserving water resources, and protecting our public wildlands and rivers.