Weller Lake Trail Running

Review

Intro

Weller Lake is a forested mountain lake below the treeline that offers a great short run through mostly spruce and aspen trees. It's nice to take a couple hours so you have time at the lake for lunch or a snack, and maybe a dip. The best time to go to Weller Lake, and most everything else in the high mountains around Aspen, is morning. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon, especially in July and August.  High snow years will prevent access to the lake until early June.

What Makes It Great

A run to Weller Lake is great if you're traveling over Independence Pass and want to get a quick workout in or if you've been recreating or camping in the area and want to tie another activity on.

The trail is gradual with quite a few switchbacks. Once you get to the lake you can hang out at the stream outlet from the lake or explore around the lake. This is a little more challenging as there are quite a few boulders and some down trees.It's actually not the most beautiful lake and backdrop (there are remnants of a forest fire from many years ago) in the Independence Pass or Maroon Bells area, but the best part of Weller is its accessibility. It's only about a .6-mile run and a vertical gain of 200 feet. 

Who is Going to Love It

Those who appreciate convenience will especially enjoy Weller Lake. If you're not yet acclimated to Aspen's elevation the short nature of the Weller Lake run makes it a great option.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From Aspen, drive east on Highway 82 for about 9 miles. The pullout is on the right just as the road starts to turn left after a very exposed section of road. If you pass Weller campground, you've gone too far.