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Land O Lakes Scenic Area

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest, Colorado · 3 min read

Distance
3 mi
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Compact concentration of seven or more lakes within a 3-mile loop
  • Excellent fishing access directly from the trail
  • Tundra wildflowers in July and August
  • Well-suited to families and shorter visits to Grand Mesa

Overview

The Land O Lakes Scenic Area sits near the center of Grand Mesa, where the plateau surface holds an especially dense concentration of lakes. The 3-mile loop is the most compact way to see multiple lakes in a single outing on the mesa, passing seven or more named water bodies within a short walking distance. The terrain is classic Grand Mesa: open tundra, patches of spruce and fir, and the constant presence of water.

This is not a dramatic summit route. It's a pleasant, accessible walk at 10,000 feet that delivers exactly what the name suggests, a landscape defined by lakes. Good for fishing, good for photography, good for a morning walk that doesn't demand hours of preparation or a high fitness level.

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest page covers the broader context of this unusual national forest unit. Grand Mesa is the most visitor-friendly section for casual hikers, and the Land O Lakes area represents its most accessible lake district.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.0: East Lakes Circuit

The loop begins at the trailhead and moves east through the first cluster of lakes. The trail is well-defined and flat, passing close enough to several lakes that fishing access is direct from the trail. Views across the open water are best in the morning before wind picks up.

Miles 1.0 to 2.0: West Meadow Section

The western portion of the loop crosses a broader meadow area between lake clusters. Wildflowers are concentrated here in July and August. Small streams connect several of the lakes, and the trail crosses on simple footbridges or stepping stones.

Miles 2.0 to 3.0: Return and South Lakes

The return leg passes the southernmost group of lakes before reconnecting with the trailhead. This section offers some of the better views of the mesa plateau extending to the south.

When to Visit

June through October is the accessible season, with the widest trail access from late June through September. Fall color on and around Grand Mesa runs from late September through mid-October. Winter visits on snowshoes are possible when CO-65 is maintained.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. The open terrain of the Land O Lakes area is exposed; morning hiking is the most reliable approach. See checking conditions before you go.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry:

  • 1 liter of water (water may be available at the trailhead; check before arrival)
  • Sun protection for the exposed sections
  • A fishing license and light gear if you plan to fish

Consider bringing:

  • A light jacket for wind and afternoon weather changes
  • Camera for the lake reflections, particularly in the morning

Practical Details

Vault toilets at the trailhead. Cell service is limited. Parking is free (as of 2026). The Grand Mesa Visitor Center a few miles west on CO-65 has drinking water, restrooms, and exhibits about the mesa's geology and ecology.

Practice Leave No Trace principles. Keep dogs on leash near the water to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. The fragile tundra around the lakes is easily damaged by off-trail travel.

Getting There

From Grand Junction, take I-70 east to Palisade, then CO-65 south approximately 30-35 miles into the Grand Mesa plateau. The Land O Lakes Scenic Area is well-signed from CO-65. From Delta, take CO-65 north approximately 20-25 miles. The trailhead parking lot is on the south side of the highway.

Trailhead Parking

Land O Lakes Scenic Area Trailhead on CO-65, Grand Mesa. Small paved lot with vault toilets. No fee. Can fill quickly on summer weekends.

← Back to Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many lakes does the Land O Lakes loop pass?
The loop passes near seven or more named lakes, making it one of the most lake-dense short hikes on Grand Mesa. Most lakes are visible from the trail or reachable by short side paths.
Is the Land O Lakes area crowded?
On summer weekends, the parking lot and the most accessible lake areas can be busy. Arriving early (before 9 a.m.) on Saturdays and Sundays generally avoids peak crowding. Weekday visits are considerably quieter.
Can I swim in the lakes?
Swimming is generally permitted. The lakes are cold, fed by snowmelt, and water temperatures even in August are quite low. Use your judgment about conditions and supervision for children near the water.
Are there interpretive signs along the route?
Some sections of the Land O Lakes area include interpretive signage about Grand Mesa geology, wildlife, and the lake ecology. The Grand Mesa Visitor Center on CO-65 has additional exhibits.
Is this trail accessible in a standard passenger car?
Yes. CO-65 is paved throughout and accessible to all vehicles. The parking lot at the trailhead is paved and level.