Pets allowed
Allowed
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Mud Lake Open Space is a 230+ acre space located just north of Nederland containing a high-altitude reflective pool and beautiful forests. The area is best explored on foot and there are 5 different trails here.

The small, namesake Mud Lake was once known as Muskee Lake. It was thought to have been formed by a meteorite, but is now recognized to most likely be of human origin. During the 1900s much of the land here was owned and mined by the Wolf Tongue Mining Company and the Primos Chemical Company.

From the trailhead and main parking area it is a short stroll to the lake. You’ll find a covered picnic shelter here, as well as some trails that lead down to the water.

To really explore the park you’ll want to hike one of the main trails. The Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loops are two of the most popular. These trails will lead you through Aspen groves, pine and fir forests, and even provide the occasional view toward some of the surrounding high mountain peaks. Be sure to also keep an eye open for wildlife as Elk, Moose and Black Bear all live in the area.

For those looking to explore further, the Caribou Ranch Open Space can also be accessed from here - just follow the Caribou Ranch Link Trail.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Large open space with small lake. Hiking trails. Wildlife.

Features

Vault toilet
Historically significant
Wildlife
Family friendly
Shelters
Geologically significant
Big vistas
Big Game Watching
Fishing
Picnic tables
Near lake or river
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Covered picnic areas
Bicycling

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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