Tungsten Loop

Mud Lake Open Space is a 230+ acre area located just north of Nederland containing a high-altitude reflective pool and beautiful forests. The area is best explored on foot and there are 5 different trails here. One of the most popular trails is the Tungsten Loop, named so because of the mining that once took place here.

The Tungsten Loop begins from the main trailhead and parking area where there is an informative sign and vault toilets. You’ll hike the short connector trail up to the official start of the loop.

You’ll immediately come to Mud Lake. This small pond was once known as Muskee Lake. It was thought to have been formed by a meteorite, but is now recognized to most likely be of human origin.

The trail passes around the lake before entering the forest. You’ll pass through some groves of Aspen, and also fir and pine forest.

At the far end of the loop you’ll come to a junction with a connector trail that leads to the Kinnickinnick Loop. Adding this loop would be another 1.2 miles if you choose, but provides some views of the mountain peaks in the distance that the Tungsten Loop does not.

Continuing on the Tungsten Loop, the next junction is with the Caribou Ranch Link Trail. This path leads to the Caribou Ranch Open Space area.

The Tungsten Trail then finishes its loop and again comes to the eastern shores of Mud Lake. Hike the connector trail back to the parking area and you’re finished!