Inter-Laken and Dexter’s Cabin, remnants of Colorado history, can be reached from either the east or west by the Colorado Trail. The western approach from the Willis Gulch Trailhead, just off Colorado 82, west of the town of Twin Lakes, will be described here.
There are several special features of this hike. Two large, beautiful lakes lie to the north of the trail and are visible during the final third of your outward route.
Many of Colorado’s highest peaks can be seen from the trail, the aspen gold is abundant in mid- to late-September and Inter-Laken was a popular resort in the late 1800s. James V. Dexter owned the resort and built a home for himself nearby. Dexter was involved in mining and banking and died in 1899.
Begin to the south, cross a bridge over Lake Creek and continue straight (south), avoiding side trails on the left and right. Within a hundred yards from the trailhead, go left (southeast) at a signed fork.
Always stay on the good, main trail as it rises over a ridge, which is the highest point on this hike. Avoid a right fork to Willis Gulch. Cross a few small creeks and reach a four-way intersection at mile 1.3 of your hike. Continue straight (east northeast) on the Colorado Trail, which also ascends to the right.
Cross Boswell Gulch and a meadow before arriving at eight preserved structures and informative signs at the Inter-Laken and Dexter’s Cabin sites.
As you reflect on the history of this location, enjoy this scenic setting near the edge of the Lower Twin Lake. Retrace your route back to the Willis Gulch Trailhead.
Dave Muller, a Denver psychiatrist in private practice, is the author of several hiking guides.
The details
Hike distance: 3.5 miles each way
Hiking time: Out in 85 minutes, back in 91 minutes
Starting elevation: 9,320 feet
Highest elevation: 9,390 feet
Elevation gain: 944 feet (includes 874 extra feet)
Trail: All the way
Difficulty: Moderate
Relevant maps: Trails Illustrated Nos.110 and 127; Granite 7 1/2 minute; Mount Elbert 7 1/2 minute; Lake County; San Isabel National Forest; Colorado Trail No.10
Getting there: From U.S. 24 between Leadville and Buena Vista drive west on Colorado 82 for 8.5 miles and turn left onto a dirt road at a Willis Gulch trailhead sign. Follow this road a tenth of a mile until it ends near the trailhead signboard and Lake Creek.
