From just outside Ouray, Colorado, the Blue Lakes hike is one of the prettiest in state. To reach the lower lake, it is a nice 3.3 mile hike. But if you go this far, you need to continue on to the Middle and Upper Lakes. This view is just above Lower Blue Lake. The steep slopes of this alpine wonder are filled with colorful Colorado wildflowers in July, making for an amazing view at ~ 11,500 feet.