Herman Lake Trail Loveland Pass is a premier hiking destination in Dillon, Colorado, covering 4.3 miles with 1500ft of elevation gain. Stats: 4.3 miles, 1500ft gain, Moderate. Type: Out-and-Back. Surface: Dirt/Rock. Time: 2-3 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: marmots, pikas, golden eagles, ptarmigan, rosy-finches. Best seasons: July through mid-September; the high starting elevation means tundra views from the first step. Herman Lake is Colorado's most easily earned alpine tundra experience — the trailhead at Loveland Pass sits at 11,990 feet, so even the first mile delivers above-treeline terrain with stunning Continental Divide views. Pack plenty of water — desert and high-altitude trails demand more hydration than you expect. Layers are essential above 10,000 feet. Leave No Trace: stay on designated trails, pack out all waste, and respect wildlife and other visitors.