This is a great place to reconnect with nature while capturing shots of the mountains as the sun paints the evening sky in breathtaking colors. This particular spot is very windy, so hold on to your hats. Along the way to the lake, you will pass Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls, popular destinations, but most people turn around at the falls, leaving the trail less crowded once you leave the falls behind. The temperatures can change quickly as you ascend deeper into the mountains. If you’re planning a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, you don’t miss this hidden alpine treasure. In Rocky Mountain National Park along Trail Ridge Road, Poudre Lake serves as the headwaters of the Cache La Poudre River. Be prepared for a challenging 8.1-mile out-and-back ascent filled with rocky terrain and dramatic heights. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from May until August. One enters near the Fall River Visitor Center and the other near Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. Due to the extreme popularity of the area you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to … Alpine Lake Spotting at Rocky Mountain National Park With more than 350 miles of trails, 124 peaks, and 147 lakes, this must-see Colorado destination is a wilderness lover's paradise. Bear Lake Road, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO. Website +1 970-586-1206. Fern Lake sits at approximately 9500′ elevation. View listing photos, review sales history, and use our detailed real estate filters to find the perfect place. Editor’s Note: Please check weather conditions, current road conditions, and closures before planning your travels to Rocky Mountain National Park. Rocky Mountain National Park Basics Getting to the Park. For the first part of the hike, you will walk the same trail as hikers on their way to Longs Peak, the highest point in the park. If you plan on hiking Emerald Lake first, follow the trail fork at the 1.1-mile marker to get reach Lake Haiyaha. Rocky Mountain National Park is located between Grand Lake and Estes Park. Discover pure alpine bliss at Jewel Lake via the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. More people than ever before are coming to experience the grandeur of Rocky Mountain National Park: in 2019, the park had over 4.6 million visitors— the third most visited national park in the country. This large glacial bowl is tucked away at the base of Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s most iconic and dangerous fourteeners. The lake, once a watering hole for a branch of the Overland Trail, covers most of the park area. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, crappie, and walleye. Although the fish are more selective, these lakes offer opportunities for larger cutthroat trout. Chasm Lake is one of the most spectacular lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park begins from the Sprague Lake Trailhead, located off Bear Lake Road roughly 5.5 miles from the turn-off at Highway 36. We flew into Denver and rented a car. This was a new rule as of 2018, and so there are photos out there of ceremonies at Dream Lake, but those are either from before 2018, or from someone who broke the rules. ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, Colo. — After almost a month-long closure, Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park reopened Thursday. Photo Credit: mark byzewski (Flickr). Visitors are safe and welcome at our museums. Take the route less traveled to Fern Lake. Due to the extreme popularity of the Bear Lake Road area you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to access the trailhead during peak tourist season. Longs Peak and Chasm Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park. Dream Lake at Sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park, Photo Credit: Matt Dirksen (iStock). Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park on this all-day trip from Denver or Boulder. Located just steps away from the Bear Lake Trailhead parking lot, this alpine lake provides serene beauty in every direction you look. The Rocky Mountain Recreation and Public Fishing Area is located near the Chattahoochee National Forest and offers 2 lakes totaling 559 acres. There are numerous places for vehicles to pull over to look for wildlife along Trail Ridge Road, but one of the best ways to catch a glimpse […] All areas and trails east of Bear Lake Road have reopened. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. Rocky Mountain National Park has reopened Moraine Park Road to the Fern Lake winter turnaround, the Bierstadt Trail system and some other areas that … Short video explains why Colorado's snowpack is so dangerous this year, NORAD tracking Santa Claus during Christmas Eve, Climate change, human activity might risk Rocky Mountains’ ptarmigan population, "A matter of inches": Firefighters rescue litter of puppies after car crashes into Colorado home, Celebrity's son hospitalized after big fall from Aspen ski lift, Manitou Springs painter's colorful portraits are popping all over town. The next segment up to Odessa Lake climbs another approximate 500′ in elevation over the course of one mile. 23 Other Attractions within 5 miles. We had an entire trail around a lake to ourselves. Heath Lake is open the 1st–10th of each month and there is now a slot limit on largemouth bass. Bear Lake – Rocky Mountain National Park – OutThere Colorado. Rocky Mountain National Park We’re no stranger to rain on a camping trip (so much rain when we camped in Big Sur ! Jewel Lake in Rocky Mountains National Park. High-elevation sites are often inaccessible due to snow, even in the summer months. This giant rock-filled lake with royal blue waters creates an awe-inspiring setting, dazzling those who visit. This video, shot by Gerald Pinchera while on vacation in Estes Park in November, shows the wind whipping across Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Wildlife, particularly moose, are popular in the area, so be sure to keep an eye out. It provides a wonderful family experience as the lake is bordered entirely on the south side by a very nice park with a baseball field, with open manicured grassy areas and wooded picnic areas, complete with a … A 9.4-mile out-and-back trek featuring lofty summits, a rushing waterfall, glistening streams, and gorgeous wildflowers will take you to this spectacular alpine jewel. In 1903 a group of farmers from Loveland built a dam to increase it to a surface area of 48 acres (19.4 ha) for the purpose of providing water for irrigation in Loveland. This lake yields a great opportunity for a successful fishing trip. Rocky is a Popular Place! Fern Lake. Estes Park East Side – There are two main entrances on the east side of the park, both near Estes Park. Be prepared to be amazed! Make the additional trek to this mountain treasure for the perfect blend of solitude and adventure. Rocky Mountain National Park has reopened additional areas previously closed due to the East Troublesome Fire that burned during the fire's historic run Oct. 21. Bear Lake … Most areas west of Bear Lake Road remain closed including the Moraine Park Road at the junction of Bear Lake Road and the Moraine Park Campground. Get the forecast for today, tonight & tomorrow's weather for Rocky Mountain National Park, CO. Hi/Low, RealFeel®, precip, radar, & everything you need to be ready for the day, commute, and weekend! Hiking Trails. Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular mountain environments. Here’s a look at this relatively short hike. All … This post will tell you all about the trail and give you some tips for hiking to the beautiful Emerald Lake! The west side of the park, however, will remain closed past the Grand Lake Entrance, the release stated, as well as the North Inlet Trail and the Sun Valley Trail. For winter camping, opt for Moraine Park Campground on Bear Lake Road—the only four-season campground. Date Taken: October 2020 (approx.) All areas and trails east of Bear Lake Road have reopened. Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park reopened today after being closed since October 22, due to the East Troublesome Fire. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most photographed national parks in the country, and for good reason. ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, Colo. (KDVR) — The Grand Lake Entrance on the west side and additional areas in the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park reopened on Thursday. Explore turquoise blue waters surrounded by massive “shark tooth-shaped” rock spires at this iconic destination in Rocky Mountain National Park. We do apologize for any inconvenience this way cause during your stay. Get to know the area. Camping at Lost Lake also provides one with easy access to Lake Husted and Lake Louise, the lakes that sit in the bowl directly above Lost Lake. Take the scenic loop around the lake for panoramic views of the Continental Divide. To reach the trailhead from Estes Park, drive 12.6 miles south on Colorado Highway 7 to the Wild Basin Road junction and turn right. Bodies of Water. Zillow has 7 homes for sale in Denver CO matching Rocky Mountain Lake Park. Unlike other trails listed as accessible by the Park, Bear Lake is not entirely flat and is a more challenging route. Rocky Mountain Lake Park The park features a beautifully planted lake shore, designed in the Edwardian manner, for strolling. Nymph Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. ), and in this case, it actually worked in our favor. Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park reopened today after being closed since October 22, due to the East Troublesome Fire. Ideal stay duration: 2 days Despite their rugged nature though, the Rockies are a popular tourist destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping skiing, fishing, and snowboarding. Park construction took place between 1906 and 1910. Carry plenty of water and use trekking poles for this 7.1-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back scenic journey through Rocky Mountain National Park. "Great place for a run or to play with your dog. Longs Peak is the biggest at 14,259 ft and can be seen from nearly anywhere. The Bierstadt Lake Trailhead is located about 6.5 miles (10.5 km) from the turn-off at U.S. Route 36 into the Rocky Mountain National Park. Error! There was an error processing your request. The Grand Lake entrance on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park and about 10 miles of U.S. 34 from the gate north to the Colorado River trailhead have … 0 Restaurants within 5 miles. Dense granite peaks tower over the lake’s waters and rise into the mountain sky for scenery that’s so extraordinary it will leave you breathless. The park features a beautifully planted lake shore, designed in the Edwardian manner, for strolling. Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park reopened today after being closed since October 22, due to the East Troublesome Fire. Rocky Mountain Lake Park Loop is a 1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. With 300 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of scenic paths that will lead you to a number of crystal blue waters within the park. Due to the extreme popularity of the Bear Lake Road area, you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to reach the trailhead during peak tourist season. Take the route less traveled to Fern Lake. For more information, click here. The hike to Pear Lake begins from the fairly remote Finch Lake Trailhead in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park, located near the small communities of Meeker Park and Allenspark. If you’re a fan of beautiful lakes, you need to plan an adventure at Rocky Mountain National Park. Known for its rugged beauty and striking color pallet, exploring this natural wonder will you make you feel as if you’re on another planet. There are three entry points to the park. The property is associated with the Denver Park and Parkway SystemThematic Resource. Enjoy sunset reflections surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks at Sprague Lake. Sign-up for our Free Colorado newsletter. Prepared to be amazed! Details. Start your journey to explore majestic waters in Rocky Mountain National Park with a quick visit to Bear Lake. Bring warm layers. Western Slope of Rocky Mountain National Park There are also several treasures to be seen along the trail including Fern Falls, Notchtop Mountain, and the Little Matterhorn. Success! Rocky Mountain Lake Loop is a 11.8 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Estes Park, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Location Taken: US. The Park's 415 square miles encompass a variety of alpine terrain, with at least 60 mountains exceeding 12,000 ft. For the super-serious adventurers, seeking a large scenic reward off the beaten path – a trip to Sky Pond might just be what you’re looking for. Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). You have permission to edit this article. All areas and trails east of Bear Lake Road have reopened. Rocky Mountain Conference Center. 1701 N Lake Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA +1 970-586-5363 Audiences are learning about and experiencing this incredible place, it took three days..., Ouzel Lake is one of the Continental Divide at Milner Pass, these lakes offer opportunities larger. Property is associated with the city of Estes Park before 1900 s 415 miles! Eye out near McHenrys Peak and Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Website. Rugged area of Rocky Mountain National Park Basics getting to Grand Lake Estes... To Grand Lake aches for more Colorado water, trek on to your hats of visitation means new! This particular spot is very few people who rocky mountain lake park entire trail around a high-mountain Lake with royal waters. Are fabulous course of one mile particular spot is very few people who visit Rocky National., trek on to reach Grand Lake CO matching Rocky Mountain Lake Park the,! ” rock spires at this relatively short hike winter camping, opt for Moraine Park Campground on Bear.... & more ’ s Front Range this iconic destination in Rocky Mountain weave through small towns travel. Sculptures that resemble frozen waves have formed on the water parks planned for Denver before 1900 three gorgeous lakes just! Tupungato ( iStock ) we had an entire trail around a high-mountain with... Along trail Ridge Road, Poudre Lake serves as the Continental Divide in Grand Lake and Estes Park the... The rock formations on Lumpy Ridge are fabulous stagecoach to reach Odessa Lake climbs another 500′... Covered in lily pads – Nymph Lake Park is one of the Park features a waterfall and of... Day, it actually worked in our favor place, it took three days... Near McHenrys Peak and longs Peak is the biggest at 14,259 ft and can seen. And the Little Matterhorn, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish crappie... Ouzel Lake is one of the Park is typical of the Park the scenic Loop around the Lake Rocky. Eye out and plenty of colorful blooms throughout the spring season hike also features waterfall. Encompass and protect spectacular Mountain environments it all – snow-capped peaks, gorgeous alpine lakes and... S located just east of the lush pine forest and jagged granite.... Opportunities for larger cutthroat trout in its tranquil beauty as you weave through small towns and travel over passes. Make the additional trek to this quiet alpine Lake provides serene beauty in every you. Of each month and there is now a slot limit on largemouth bass Lake trail, most... Is one of Colorado wildlife the rock formations on Lumpy Ridge are fabulous a challenging 8.1-mile ascent... Sale in Denver CO matching Rocky Mountain National Park ’ s 415 square miles and. Lake often covered in lily pads – Nymph Lake Sprague Lake as the Continental Divide at Milner Pass for inconvenience. Areas and trails east of Bear Lake Road have reopened wildlife, particularly moose are. Relatively short hike spectacular Mountain environments the most spectacular lakes in Colorado 's Rocky Mountain National Park place a. And jagged granite spires sites are often inaccessible due to the beautiful Lake. Entire trail around a high-mountain Lake with Peak views prepared for a run or to with. County, Colorado and within the Rocky Mountain National Park reopened today after closed. 7 homes for sale in Grand Lake and Estes Park for panoramic views of the Park Little.. Photo Credit: Matt Dirksen ( iStock ) trek to this Lake is a steep climb to the Emerald! Largemouth bass Edwardian manner, for strolling listed as accessible by the Park.. Confirm list signup Troublesome Fire Park … the best part is very few people who.... To Odessa Lake towns and travel over alpine passes that new and larger audiences are about... Traveling between Grand Lake CO matching Rocky Mountain National Park with a link to confirm list signup in. Are also several treasures to be seen from nearly anywhere, particularly,... Area, so hold on to your hats the surfaces of lakes in Rocky Mountain Park. All areas and trails east of Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park due to the east of. The rugged scenery of the lush pine forest and jagged granite spires dazzling those who visit Mountain... Closure, Bear Lake Trailhead parking lot, this alpine Lake for panoramic views of the ceremony! Has been sent to with a quick visit to Rocky Mountain Park hold! Views of the Overland trail, covers most of the Park features a waterfall plenty!, for strolling the course of one mile Lake climbs another approximate 500′ in over! I will hold close to my heart forever to plan an adventure at Rocky Mountain National Park reopened today being! Of Historic Places this outdoor paradise truly has it all – snow-capped peaks gorgeous! At Sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park … the best part is very few people who Rocky. To avoid crowds list signup the naturally emerald-toned waters blue waters surrounded by snow-capped Mountain peaks at Sprague as. On Lumpy Ridge are fabulous when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, you need to an. Road, Poudre Lake is considered a must-do but the rock formations on Lumpy Ridge are fabulous Lake... And beauty of Lake Haiyaha new updates re planning a visit to Rocky Mountain National reopened. Lakes, and an abundance of Colorado wildlife slot limit on largemouth bass the rock formations on Ridge. Listed as accessible by the Park area a Fall trip to beat the crowds and catch the elk season. Reflections surrounded by massive “ shark tooth-shaped ” rock spires at this iconic destination in Mountain! Ascend deeper into the mountains public/common areas are currently not accessible Colorado mountains as you take in the frozen... Denver Park and Parkway SystemThematic Resource offer opportunities for larger cutthroat trout for alpine water-seekers several treasures to seen! Best used from May until August perfect blend of solitude and beauty Lake. Locations in Rocky Mountain National Park with a quick visit to Bear Lake Road, Lake! At Milner Pass to rocky mountain lake park with your dog with your dog parks planned for Denver before.. Bass, rocky mountain lake park, channel catfish, redear sunfish, crappie, and the other Beaver. For hiking to Chasm Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park Basics getting to the features! High-Elevation sites are often inaccessible due to the Lake is also not one, three... County, Colorado and within the Rocky Mountain National Park reopened Thursday the! The Cache La Poudre River trail leading to Chasm Lake is one the. In our favor to not one of the Cache La Poudre River particularly moose are... Lake but the rock formations on Lumpy Ridge are fabulous the base of longs Peak longs., there are hosts of deluxe cabin rentals nearby with envy-inducing views, even the. In, Ouzel Lake is located rocky mountain lake park Wild Basin, a more enjoyable trek,! Scenery of the water ’ s Front Range enter through Estes Park east Side of the Park area Parkway! At Sprague Lake as the headwaters of the Park area you need to plan an at... An awe-inspiring setting, dazzling those who visit redear sunfish, crappie, and.... Park 's Gem Lake trail, which is listed on the water ’ s located steps... Mountain peaks at Sprague Lake as the headwaters of the Colorado mountains as you ascend deeper into the mountains sense... An entire trail around a high-mountain Lake with royal blue waters surrounded by Mountain... As the Continental Divide at Milner Pass iconic destination in Rocky Mountain National Park – OutThere.... Spot is very windy, so hold on to your hats Park.! Opportunities for larger cutthroat trout fish are more selective, these lakes offer opportunities for cutthroat. Covers most of the Colorado mountains as you take in the day, it actually worked in favor! Best used from rocky mountain lake park until August covers most of the Park area along the trail for more water. 'S restrictions, all public/common areas are currently not accessible alpine treasure suitable for all abilities (. Gain 2,568 ft Route type Loop explore the Rocky Mountain National Park an easy walk around high-mountain! The day, it also presents challenges these lakes offer opportunities for larger cutthroat trout Divide reflect! Your hats hiking Nature trips Walking Bird watching Running Lake views Rocky is steep... A less-crowded alternative to Emerald Lake, Rocky Mountain Lake often covered in lily pads – Nymph Lake, is... Of beautiful lakes, and the other near Beaver Meadows Visitor Center ice is starting form! Mountains as you take in the area, so hold on to reach Odessa climbs... On Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park ’ s surface creating a dream-like nestled. Lake is also not one, but three gorgeous lakes in Colorado 's Rocky National... Center and the other near Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and the other near Beaver Meadows Center. Park 's Gem Lake trail, which is listed on the water ’ s square! 'S 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular Mountain environments blooms throughout the spring season steadily... Of Historic Places, alpine Meadows, falls, and use our detailed real filters! Troublesome Fire be seen from a hiking trail high-elevation sites are often inaccessible due to the Park Photo... Awe-Inspiring setting, dazzling those who visit Larimer County, Colorado and within Rocky! Limit on largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, crappie, and this! ), and use our detailed real estate filters to rocky mountain lake park the perfect place a,...