Lower Sand Creek Lake via Music Pass
A remote alpine-lake hike over Music Pass into the Sand Creek drainage.
Route overview
Hike from Music Pass Trailhead over the pass toward Lower Sand Creek Lake and return the same way.
This route combines a difficult trailhead approach with an eight-mile mountain hike to Lower Sand Creek Lake. Alpine scenery, lingering snow and wildflowers reward the effort, but vehicle logistics and rapid mountain weather demand advance planning.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- San Luis Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Colorado
- Distance
- 8 mi / 13 km round trip
- Typical duration
- Full-day hike
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- Not officially stated
- Best season
- Mid-summer through early autumn
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-hiking permit; overnight use requires appropriate permit
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Remote driving, altitude, lightning, lingering snow, navigation and substantial extra mileage from the 2WD parking area
Highlights
Music Pass, alpine lake, wildflowers, tundra and Sangre de Cristo views
Why find a buddy
Long access, altitude and changeable alpine conditions favor a partner with similar pace and backcountry judgment.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.