The Pagosa Area Recreation Coalition connects residents and visitors with the trails, destinations and year-round outdoor adventures that make the Pagosa Springs area extraordinary. Explore responsibly, respect the land and help preserve these special places for generations to come.
451 Hot Springs Blvd
PO Box 1859
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Buckles Lake Trail No. 688 begins at the Buckles Lake trailhead, passes Buckles Lake and ends at Harris Lake. The route is about 1.6 miles one way with only modest elevation change, moving through open meadow and shaded aspen.
The lakes are managed as reservoirs and may be drawn down later in the season. Early summer often provides the best water levels, while fall brings colorful foliage.
Whether you prefer hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, motorized adventures or winter recreation, there’s a trail waiting to be explored. Search by activity to discover routes that match the way you want to experience the Pagosa Springs area.
Conditions, access and regulations can change. Check current land-manager alerts, weather and trailhead signage before leaving.
The Buckles Lake trailhead has a restroom; the final access road can be rough.
Lake levels may be low later in the season because of water-rights operations.
The trail is nonmotorized and e-bikes are prohibited.
John Nelson
May 11, 2020 - 1:40 amTrail was opened to Buckles Lake by San Juan Back Country Horsemen (Mike Pluth and Rena Gallant) on May 10,2020.
Kris Ogilvie
June 7, 2020 - 10:45 pm5 or so newly downed Aspen trees from recent storm. You can hike completely around Harris lake to lengthen hike by a mile.
Pagosatrails
June 8, 2020 - 2:47 amThanks for the info, Kris
D. Jackson
June 24, 2020 - 6:11 amThis gorgeous trail will delight wildflower photographers, bird watchers, and anyone that desires to enjoy the beauty and serenity of God's creation away from the crowds. The Columbines are profuse in the aspen groves along the trail between Buckles and Harris Lakes right now (mid June 2020). It's worth your time to hike to Harris Lake to see the Columbines. (The only two other places I've seen Columbines as beautful and abundant are Yankee Boy Basin, outside of Ouray, and in American Basin below Handies peak.) Several different birds reside in the aspen groves. Their beautiful calls make for a peaceful and uplifting hike. Take time to stop and listen to them sing! Wild geese swim in Buckles and Harris Lakes. Bug spray is recommend as most of the hike is through wooded areas. Packing extra water is also recommeded as there is not a stream on this trail to filter and refill water bottles. Still water is available at Buckles Lake. Be sure to filter. Harris Lake is almost dry. The restroom at the trailhead is currently closed. Plan to bring your own BIFF kit. Please pack out your TP in a disposable bag. A camera with back up battery and a fully charged cellphone are a must. We ran out of battery for both devices taking pictures. The scenery and flowers are that good! I have hiked and backpacked in parts of the San Juan Mountain Region through the years. This short, easy trail ranks up there in my opinion as one of the prettiest and most serene. I will definitely hike it again!
Pagosatrails
June 25, 2020 - 4:14 amThanks for your wonderful commentary; I will tag it on the top of the trail description. Rob Lambert, Pagosa Area Trails Council
Brandon Caley
July 7, 2020 - 3:44 pmYou may encounter livestock in and around the Buckles/Harris Lakes area.
Pagosatrails
July 8, 2020 - 1:43 amBrandon, we so much appreciate your support of the website.
Bill Sadd
June 23, 2021 - 8:50 pmSt Patrick's hiking group had a great hike to the NW corner of Harris lake, just past the old causeway. The trail was in good condition. Harris Lake was almost dry ... Buckles seemed at a reasonable level
Bill Milner
July 14, 2023 - 9:12 pmJuly 9th - great Flowers, lakes are full. 3 large aspen down on trail. 2 about 1/2 miles dons from TH and the 3 just before Harris.