St. Mary’s Glacier Hike: Ultimate Colorado Trail Guide

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Front Range, Saint Mary’s Glacier offers an enchanting alpine experience that’s accessible to hikers of all levels. This 1.5-mile round-trip trail, with its 1,200-foot elevation gain, leads adventurers to a stunning perennial snowfield and a picturesque alpine lake. Despite its name, Saint Mary’s Glacier is not a true glacier but a year-round snowfield that provides a unique opportunity to witness snow-capped beauty regardless of the season. Located just 55 minutes from Denver, this hike combines the thrill of high-altitude exploration with breathtaking panoramic views, making it a perfect introduction to Colorado’s majestic mountain landscape.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to mountain trails, Saint Mary’s Glacier promises an unforgettable journey through diverse ecosystems and awe-inspiring scenery.

St. Mary's Glacier At a Glance

Best Time to Hike St. Mary’s Glacier

The best time to visit Saint Mary’s Glacier depends on your preferences and the activities you’re interested in. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in different seasons:

Summer (June to August): This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Wildflowers are in full bloom, adding to the scenic beauty. However, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in Colorado mountains during summer.
Fall (September to early October): Fall offers a unique experience with changing aspen leaves creating a stunning backdrop. The weather is cooler but still comfortable for hiking. There are fewer crowds compared to summer, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Winter (November to April): Saint Mary’s Glacier is accessible year-round, making it a popular spot for winter activities. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing on the perennial snowfield. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and potential heavy snowfall. Always check weather conditions and avalanche risks before visiting in winter.
Spring (May to early June): Spring can be unpredictable with a mix of warm days and late snowfalls. The trail might be muddy or still partially snow-covered. However, this is a great time to see the area coming to life with early wildflowers and fewer crowds.

Regardless of the season, it’s best to start your hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer or early darkness in winter. Always check the weather forecast before your visit and be prepared for rapid weather changes, which are common in high-altitude environments.

Trail Description

💡Pro Tip: Start Your Hike Early! Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the trail in the quiet, peaceful hours of the day. This also helps you avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the mountains.

The route to Saint Mary’s Glacier is a relatively short but rewarding hike. Here’s a detailed description of what to expect:

The hike begins at the Saint Mary’s Glacier trailhead. From here, follow the well-marked trail as it steadily climbs through a beautiful forest of pine and aspen trees. This initial section is about 0.75 miles long and gains approximately 400 feet in elevation.

After the forest section, you’ll emerge into a clearing where you’ll see Saint Mary’s Lake. This alpine lake sits at the base of the glacier and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for a quick rest or photos.

From the lake, continue on the trail as it becomes steeper and rockier. You’ll gain another 400 feet in elevation over about 0.25 miles as you make your way to the base of the glacier.

The final stretch leads you to the glacier itself (remember, it’s actually a permanent snowfield). The terrain here can be loose and slippery, so take care as you explore. The views from this point are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Front Range.

The entire hike is about 1.5 miles round trip, with a total elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. While short, the steepness and altitude can make it challenging for some hikers. Always stay on the designated trail to protect the fragile alpine environment.

Remember that conditions can vary greatly depending on the season. In winter, the trail may be snow-covered and require appropriate gear like microspikes or snowshoes.

Trail Maps

Use these resources to plan your hike. I recommend printing out a paper map to bring with you or buying a topographic route map online.

Topo Map

Use this topographic route map of the Saint Mary’s Glacier Trail to plan your hike. You can open it in Cal Topo to view it full-sized or zoom in and out.

Elevation Profile

This graph shows the elevation change along the trail leading to the base of Saint Mary’s Glacier.

Trail Photos

These photos show the St. Mary’s Glacier hike and were taken in 2023 and 2024.

Copper Creek/Judd Falls Trailhead

The Saint Mary’s Glacier trail starts from the parking area/trailhead.

There are port-a-potties at the trailhead but no drinking water. Come prepared with your own hydration supplies.

💡 NOTE: $20 PARKING FEE As of 2024, there is a parking fee of $20 to help pay for maintenance of the bathrooms, lot, and access road. The nearest ATM is more than 30 minutes away.

Directions

Start in Denver:
- Take Interstate 70 (I-70) westbound from Denver.
Continue on I-70:
- Drive for approximately 30 miles until you reach Exit 238 for Fall River Road.
Take Exit 238 – Fall River Road:
- Exit I-70 and turn right onto Fall River Road (County Road 275).
Follow Fall River Road:
- Stay on Fall River Road for about 9 miles. The road will wind through a residential area and then transition into a more rural, mountainous terrain.
Arrive at the Trailhead:
- Look for the Saint Mary’s Glacier Trailhead parking area on your left. There is a parking lot, but it requires a fee, so be sure to bring cash or a card for the payment station.

Amenities

Here are the amenities available at the Copper Creek Trailhead.

Restrooms: YES
Picnic Tables: NO
Drinking Water: NO
Garbage: YES
Camping: NO

Access

The trailhead is open and accessible all year-round. Keep in mind that it may be difficult to access following major snowfall events.

The road to the trailhead is accessible by all vehicles. 4WD is not required.

Trail Conditions

Depending on the season, conditions along the trail vary greatly. Use these links and websites to check for recent updates on trail conditions so you can plan ahead and be prepared.

AllTrails Condition Updates
14ers.com James Peak Conditions
Hiking Colorado Facebook Group
Call the Clear Creek Ranger District: (970)295-6600

When in doubt, be the beta! Go hike and share your own conditions report with the sources above to make the information accessible to the broader hiking community.

Weather

Check the weather forecast before hiking Saint Mary’s Glacier so you can plan accordingly. I recommend using the links and resources below.

National Weather Service

The NWS is the gold standard for weather forecasts across the United States. The link below shows the current forecast specifically for Saint Mary’s Glacier near Denver, Colorado.

HighpointsWx

HighpointsWx provides weather forecasts specifically for mountain terrain, with the option to choose an elevation (with 1,000-foot increments) and tools like a thunderstorm probability score.

Leave No Trace

Help protect access to this amazing place by following these Leave No Trace ethics tips and practices during your visit to Saint Mary’s Glacier:

Here’s a concise summary of the seven Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and relevant tips for hiking in Colorado:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Research your destination, check weather forecasts, and understand regulations. Be aware of altitude sickness and pack essential gear.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites. In alpine areas, camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and leftover food. Use established bathrooms or bury human waste in catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water sources.
4. Leave What You Find: Preserve the environment by not disturbing plants, wildlife, rocks, or artifacts.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camping stove for cooking. If fires are permitted, use established fire rings and keep fires small.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals. Keep pets under control or leave them at home.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down, yield to other hikers, and maintain small group sizes.

Check out our complete Leave No Trace guide here to learn more about protecting the outdoor places you love for future generations and adventures.

Safety Tips

There are many hazards in the mountains, including at Saint Mary’s Glacier. It has been the site of multiple fatal accidents in recent years. Here are a few essential tips for staying safe while hiking in Colorado:

Be prepared for rapid weather changes and afternoon thunderstorms.
Write down your plan, share it with someone dependable, and stick to it.
Carry and know how to use a topographic map and compass.
Stay on designated trails to protect fragile alpine ecosystems.
Check for fire restrictions before your trip and always follow them.
Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and take necessary precautions.
Go with a hiking partner if possible, especially if new to hiking or Colorado.

Learn more in our complete mountain safety guide here with more tips and expert advice for risk management and mitigation.

Camping Nearby

There are a ton of great camping options near Saint Mary’s Glacier, including campgrounds and dispersed camping areas. Here are some of my top favorites to stay at while hiking.

Learn how to find free camping all across Colorado in my full guide here. There’s really no need to pay for campsites in Colorado – if you know where to look!

Lodging Nearby

If you prefer a bed over a sleeping bag, there are plenty of hotels and motels to choose from in Idaho Springs and Georgetown. These historic mining towns are worth a visit to explore their charm and attractions.

Here are some of the top rated places to stay in town:

Argo Inn & Suites – Idaho Springss
Uplift Inn – Idaho Springs
H&H Motor Lodge – Idaho Springs
Georgetown Mountain Inn – Georgetown

If you book a stay using one of these links, we’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you, which funds our education and advocacy programs. Thank your for your support!

Rules & Regulations

There are no permits or reservations required to hike to Saint Mary’s Glacier. Follow these essential National Forest rules and regulations during your visit to protect the area and preserve public access.

Stay on Designated Trails: To protect the environment and ensure safety, always stay on marked trails.
Pack Out All Trash: Carry out all trash, including food scraps, to keep the forest clean and preserve its natural beauty.
Camp Only in Designated Areas: Use established campsites or areas designated for dispersed camping. Avoid setting up camp near water sources.
Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed them. Keep food and trash secured to prevent attracting wildlife.
Keep Dogs on Leashes: Dogs must be kept on leashes at all times to protect wildlife and other visitors.
No Campfires Outside Designated Areas: Check current fire regulations and only build fires in designated fire rings or grills.
Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles, such as minimizing campfire impact, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors.
Obtain Necessary Permits: If required, obtain permits for backcountry camping or other regulated activities.
Respect Quiet Hours: Follow quiet hours in campgrounds to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors.
Adhere to Seasonal Closures: Be aware of and respect any seasonal trail or area closures for wildlife protection or other reasons.

About St. Mary's Glacier

Saint Mary’s Glacier is a stunning natural wonder located in the Front Range of Colorado, about 55 minutes from Denver. Despite its name, it’s actually a perennial snowfield rather than a true glacier. This scenic area offers visitors a unique alpine experience that’s accessible year-round.

The glacier sits at an elevation of approximately 10,848 feet, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. It’s nestled above Saint Mary’s Lake, a picturesque alpine lake that adds to the area’s beauty.

Key features of Saint Mary’s Glacier include:

Accessibility: The relatively short trail (1.5 miles round trip) makes it a popular destination for hikers of various skill levels.
Year-round appeal: While most beautiful in summer, the area offers activities in all seasons, including summer hiking and winter skiing.
Scenic beauty: Visitors are treated to stunning views of the snowfield, alpine lake, and surrounding mountain peaks.
Unique ecosystem: The area supports a diverse range of alpine flora and fauna adapted to the harsh high-altitude environment.

Saint Mary’s Glacier is not only a beautiful hiking destination but also serves as an excellent training ground for those preparing to tackle more challenging 14ers in Colorado. Its combination of elevation gain, distance, and scenic rewards make it a perfect introductory hike for those new to mountain adventures in the Centennial State.

FAQ

Check out my answers to some frequently asked questions about the St. Mary’s Glacier hike. If I haven’t answered your question, leave a comment below and I’ll get back to you with an answer as soon as possible.

Q: How long does it take to hike St. Mary's glacier?

A: The hike to St. Mary’s Glacier typically takes about 1-2 hours round trip for most hikers. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, but the steep elevation gain of about 1,000 feet and the high altitude can make it more challenging and time-consuming. Factors like your fitness level, how long you spend at the glacier, and weather conditions can affect the total time. It’s always best to start early and allow plenty of time to enjoy the views and return safely.

Q: Is St. Mary's glacier worth visiting?

A: Yes, St. Mary’s Glacier is definitely worth visiting. It offers a unique opportunity to see a year-round snowfield in Colorado, stunning alpine views, and a beautiful lake. The relatively short but challenging hike rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery and a chance to experience high-altitude environments. It’s a popular spot for hiking, photography, and even summer skiing. However, visitors should be prepared for the altitude, changing weather conditions, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this natural wonder for future generations.

Q: Can you drive up to Saint Mary's glacier?

A: No, you cannot drive up to Saint Mary’s Glacier. The hike to Saint Mary’s Glacier requires a short but steep walk from the trailhead. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. You’ll need to park at the Saint Mary’s Glacier trailhead and hike from there. The trailhead is accessible by car, but the glacier itself can only be reached on foot. Remember to bring $5 for the parking fee at the trailhead.

Q: Do you need a reservation for St. Mary's glacier?

A: No, you do not need a reservation to hike St. Mary’s Glacier. The trail is open to the public year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

There is a $20 parking fee required to park at the trailhead. Bring cash as credit cards are not accepted.
The parking lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a spot.
If the lot is full, do not park along the road as this is illegal and you may be ticketed or towed.

Always check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information on regulations and conditions before your visit.

Q: Are there bathrooms at St. Mary's glacier?

A: Yes, there are basic bathroom facilities available at the St. Mary’s Glacier trailhead. Port-a-potties are provided for hikers’ convenience. However, it’s important to note that there are no flush toilets or running water available. It’s always a good idea to bring hand sanitizer and toilet paper just in case supplies are low.

Q: Is there a cost to hike Saint Mary's glacier?

A: Yes, there is a cost associated with hiking St. Mary’s Glacier. A parking fee of $20 is required to park at the trailhead. This fee helps maintain the parking area, trail, and facilities. It’s important to bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted. The nearest ATM is over 30 minutes away in Idaho Springs, so plan accordingly.

Q: Are there bears at St. Mary's glacier?

A: While bears can be found in the Colorado wilderness, they are not commonly seen in the immediate area of St. Mary’s Glacier. However, it’s always wise to practice bear safety when hiking in Colorado. This includes making noise while hiking, storing food properly, and carrying bear spray if you’re concerned. Remember, you’re more likely to encounter smaller wildlife like marmots or pikas in this alpine environment.

Additional Resources

Check out these additional resources and articles with more information on hiking to Saint Mary’s Glacier:

Notice: The material presented in this route guide may not be comprehensive or precise and should not be solely relied upon when planning your climb. Inadequate experience, physical fitness, supplies, or equipment may result in injury or fatality.

The Next Summit and the author(s) of this hiking guide offer no guarantees, neither explicit nor implied, regarding the accuracy or dependability of the information provided.

By utilizing the information herein, you agree to indemnify and absolve The Next Summit and the hiking guide author(s) from any claims and demands against them, including any legal fees and expenses.

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