Lizard Lake and Crystal Mill

Crystal Mill Trailhead
5.0
7 Reviews
Lizard Lake and Crystal Mill
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Details

Distance
8.94 miles
Elevation Gain
997 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Wildflowers
Food Nearby
Dog Friendly
River
Lake
Forest
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About this place

Added by Mike Fennell

Explore Crystal Mill and the 19th century town of Crystal. You'll take in unbelievably pristine views of Lizard Lake and rolling mountains.

Although the iconic Crystal Mill is the main attraction on this hike, the river that leads you there through the magnificent mountains of the White River National Forest is nothing short of extraordinary.

Getting There

The hike is located in the small town of Marble, about 40 minutes east of Carbondale on Highway 133. Drive through the town and past beautiful Beaver Lake and find a place to park before the road turns into a smaller 4x4 road. It's possible to drive to Crystal Mill with a high clearance 4x4, but hiking there is definitely recommended.

The Trail

The road itself is a loop and is just a few miles extra should you choose to hike the full trail. Take the right fork in the road about a mile uphill from where you parked. You'll come across Lizard Lake less than half a mile from the fork, and from there continue for four more miles to reach the town of Crystal. Take some time to meander around and explore this 19th century town.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Alex Brown
4/4/2026
Well Maintained
Amazing Views
Great Conditions
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Connor Bruson
5/30/2018
Worth driving the road and camping near Crystal!
First of all, this adventure has some great pictures - well done! My wife and I drove the road in a stock 2000 Jeep ...
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Gabe Priestley
3/23/2017
Short easy hike or quick drive
The crystal mill is a classic photography location. This road is fine for a high clearence 4x4 car however past the mine it gets ...
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Jenna Davison
6/8/2016
Fun To Hike!
We loved this hike and were so happy we chose not to drive- you notice so much more this way. Get started by 8 ...
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Leigh Wilson
6/3/2016
Love this area!
I grew up vacationing at Beaver Lake each summer - we've hiked, driven and ridden horses up to Crystal. I was even lucky ...
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Jason Hatfield
10/26/2015
One of Colorado's most photographed spots
Or so the saying goes, I'm not so sure due to the condition of the road. I've made the trip numerous times in ...
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Jennifer Broome
10/8/2015
On My Explore List
Haven't done this one yet but it is high on my Explore Colorado list!
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