Lake Charles, Holy Cross Wilderness

Derek Regensburger
July 25, 2025
Colorado / Holy Cross Wilderness / Landscape

My son and I backpacked to Lake Charles in the Holy Cross Wilderness recently. The lake lies at the head of a glacial valley in the Holy Cross Wilderness near Eagle, CO. After spending the night at the lake, we hiked the mile up to Mystic Island Lake, another pretty lake in the chain.

The trail starts at the end of a Forest Service Road. It ascends steeply for about a quarter mile and then levels off for the next mile as it passes through aspen forest. It crosses a small boulder field around the 1 mile mark. Around 1.75 miles, you enter the Holy Cross Wilderness. You pass through a couple of small, marshy meadows. You will then pass small streams on the left and after the third stream, around the 2.75 mark, the trail begins to steadily gain elevation. Over the next 2 miles, the trail seems to relentlessly ascend the rocky terrain. The main stream will come back into view and the trail passes by some small cascades. Finally, you will reach the lake around the 5 mile mark. It is a sight to behold. The mountains soar above the lake. It is one of the prettiest valleys in Colorado.

The continues around the left side of the lake and then ascends about 200 feet to Mystic Island Lake. There is only a small steep section to reach the lake.

If you are patient, try your hand at catching the small cutthroat trout that live in both the lakes.

The weather was a mixed bag on the trip. It was humid on the hike in and then it poured after dinner as we were trying to set up camp. Nothing like water, mud, and pine needles coating a tent. The clouds parted just before sunset lighting up the mountains in the distance. A very special moment. The clouds cleared and I was treated to a star show and a great view of the Milky Way.