A Challenging Hike Leads To The Highest Lake In The US With Stunning Alpine Views

If extreme swimming at the top of the world is on your bucket list, head to Pacific Tarn, a glacial lake resting on the eastern crest of Pacific Peak in Colorado's Tenmile Range, and part of White River National Forest. The strenuous hike to get there isn't for the fainthearted, but if you're up for a challenge, you'll be rewarded with some of the best views in the state. Plunge into the lake's icy waters for a refreshing dip in this secret swimming spot in the Rocky Mountains, and take in the wildflower-covered valleys and the surrounding snow-covered peaks. At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is officially the highest named lake in the U.S., recorded by the scientist Carl Drews in 2004, and recognized by the United States Board on Geographic Names. It measures 560 feet long by 464 feet wide, with a maximum depth of 28 feet. 

Pacific Peak may fall a few feet short of 14,000 feet tall, but it still requires a lot of physical strength and a steady head for heights all the same. (If you'd like to bag your first 14er, these are the easiest Colorado mountain peaks to climb.) Access to the lake's nearest trailhead is around a 17-minute drive from Breckenridge, and just under two hours from Denver. There are four trails around Pacific Tarn, and there's no easy route among them. You can reach the trails either from Colorado State Highway 91 on the west or Colorado State Highway 9 on the east.

The Pacific Peak and Pacific Tarn via McCullough Gulch Trail is a popular 12.3-mile loop that takes you through some outstanding alpine scenery, over boulders, and past streams and waterfalls. Starting from McCullough Gulch Trailhead on the eastern side, allow around seven hours to complete the whole trail. The 7.3-mile Atlantic Peak and Pacific Peak Trail is another challenging hike, starting on the west side of the peaks from the Mayflower Gulch Trailhead, where there's free parking. Many hikers recommend climbing the Pacific Peak first as the descent is difficult with a lot of loose scree and rockfall.

The Mohawk Lake to Pacific Peak and Crystal Peak trail is a strenuous 11.8-mile loop best suited to experienced climbers. If that's you, you're in for a treat with beautiful views through pine and aspen forests. Start from Spruce Creek Trailhead, where there's limited free parking. Lastly, the 11.6-mile Pacific Peak, Crystal, Father Dyer Loop also starts from the Spruce Creek Trailhead, and will take around eight hours to complete. Although a strenuous hike, this lesser-traveled trail is ideal if you're looking for complete tranquility.

From June 14 to September 14, visitors to McCullough Gulch or Quandary Peak must reserve parking or take a shuttle. The shuttle runs from Breckenridge to Quandary Peak parking lot, with a transfer up to McCullough Gulch. Both options require making reservations at hikequandary.com. The shuttle costs $7 for a round trip (free for Colorado residents), and dogs can ride for free. Parking costs from $10 up to $55 depending on time slots and dates, but for the mentioned trails, booking a full day's parking is recommended. Outside of these months, parking is free on a first come, first served basis.

Although most people visit the state to hike the peaks and valleys of the mountains in the summer months and enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding when the snow arrives, there are many more activities locals want you to experience while you're in Colorado. White River National Forest, where Pacific Tarn is located, covers 2.3 million acres and contains eight wilderness areas offering much more than hiking. Many trails are suitable for horseback riding and mountain biking, with designated areas for off-road vehicles. On the water, there's canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting, and fishing. There are also plenty of camping options, with a few dispersed camping spots before you make the ascent to Pacific Tarn.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the forest is home to many animals, including moose, black bears, and mountain lions. In the skies, look out for bald eagles and ospreys. In Pacific Tarn itself, there is even one species of salmonid fish that's been spotted in its icy waters. The nearby town of Breckenridge is often voted one of the prettiest towns in the U.S. and is a popular base for exploring the area. Stroll along its historic main street with a large selection of restaurants and boutiques. Step back in time and take a tour of the gold mines, and don't forget to stop and say hi to the town's famous resident troll, Isak Heartstone, a 15-foot tall statue lovingly created from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.