Mountain lakes routes — scenic circuits & planning
Curated routes, distances, highlights and packing tips for mountain-lake road trips across the USA.
Why these routes
We focus on routes that connect high-altitude alpine lakes, offer manageable driving times and memorable viewpoints. Routes are suitable for car campers, families and day-hike enthusiasts.
- Short scenic loops (1–2 days)
- Extended multi-lake circuits (3–7 days)
- Seasonal notes — snow, closures and best months
Quick facts
Best season: June–September
Vehicle: Standard car or SUV; chains in early season
Average daily drive: 1–3 hours
Featured routes (accordion)
Start/End: Truckee, CA • Distance: ~220 miles • Highlights: alpine basins, clear lakes, sunset ridgelines.
Suggested stops: Lake A, Lake B viewpoints, Skyline trailhead. Camping options along route.
Start/End: Estes Park, CO • Distance: ~400 miles • Highlights: glacier-carved lakes, alpine meadows, wildlife viewing.
Consider altitude acclimatization; many trailheads have short but steep approaches to lake basins.
Start/End: Leavenworth, WA • Distance: ~180 miles • Highlights: waterfalls, roadside lake overlooks, short hikes.
Roads are typically open mid-spring through fall; watch for rainy season and stream crossings.
Photo gallery — selected viewpoints
Photos show typical vantage points; conditions vary by season. Use established trails and leave *** trace.
Distances & driving times
| Segment | Distance (mi) | Avg drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Truckee — Alpine Lake | 42 | 1h 5m |
| Alpine Lake — Ridge Viewpoint | 18 | 35m |
| Estes Park — Glacier Basin | 95 | 2h 15m |
| Leavenworth — Cascade Lake | 72 | 1h 40m |
Times assume clear roads and standard vehicles. Add buffer for stops, hikes and photos.
Guide — Avery Collins
Avery is a road-trip planner and mountain guide with years of route-testing across the western ranges. Practical tips, safety-first mindset.
Available for private planning consultations and custom route builds.
Safety & packing checklist
- Layers, waterproof jacket, warm hat
- Navigation (offline maps) and physical map
- First-aid kit and bear-aware storage where required
- Spare tire, shovel, jumper cables in alpine seasons
- Water treatment and extra fuel
- Check local road closures before travel