While Colorado is noted for its high peaks, literally hundreds of stunningly beautiful lakes and reservoirs sit under these peaks, many of which can be reached by hikers of all skill levels. Collecting the streams and snowmelt from above, the lakes provide homes for fish and refuge and water for birds and other wildlife. Lakes of various sizes and shapes can be found in rocky bowls, high basins or open valleys. Some are man-made to prevent floods, store water and provide recreation. All these lakes are very much worth visiting. And although most lake hikes take place in the summer, many of these hikes can be done in relative safety on snowshoes in the winter. Author Dave Muller's route descriptions include detailed instructions on how to get to the trailhead; insightful comments on why the hike is particularly special and accurate detailed descriptions of the hike itself. Each hike will include at least one color photo of the lake and a color map with the trail marked in red. Each hike begins with basic information on the hike including the distance, estimated hiking time, starting elevation, highest elevation, elevation gain, a difficulty rating and a list of relevant maps.