Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by foxintheforest
One of the most quintessential ways to experience the magic of America’s 4th most popular national park is to check out the pristine Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Picture-perfect serene scenes await. Watch a moose take a sip of cool alpine water, or experience the magic of the alpenglow while watching the sunrise reflect off of a mountain lake.
The best lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park bring you into the heart of the mountains. These gems are typically reached via hiking trails throughout the park. However, there are a few that you can reach via accessible paths just steps from your car.
The most important thing to know about lake hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park is that they are well known. Don’t expect to find solitude during a summer day on the weekend. But if you are looking for some alone time, you’re in good hands.
It’s my mission to get you to enjoy lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park like a local, not a tourist. I’ve lived in Colorado for over 13 years and I know how to beat the crowds. Since I visit Rocky at least once a month, you’ll be sure to get expert advice on how to make the most of your visit.
About this Guide to Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Inside this guide to the best lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park you’ll find:
- Expert tips on the best time to visit lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
- A map
- Helpful info about visiting the park
- A look at lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park and how to get there
- Local tips for beating the crowds and staying safe
- Lakes near Rocky Mountain National Park that are worth a visit
- Additional Rocky Mountain National Park local travel tips
When is the Best Time to Visit Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Mid-June through October are the best times to visit lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. In winter, many of the hiking trails in the park become extremely dangerous. In fact, the most popular hike in the park – Dream Lake – has avalanche hazards along the way. Not to mention, the lakes are frozen and sometimes covered in snow.
Local Tip: Only venture to lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park in winter if you have avalanche safety knowledge under your belt. This is especially important if you plan to go snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The higher-elevation lakes are typically snow-free and starting to thaw by mid-June, although it depends on the year. This can be a unique time to visit lakes in Rocky because you get a nice blend of snow, peeping green, and chunks of ice.
July is Colorado wildflower season in Rocky Mountain National Park. In fact, some of the best wildflower hikes in Colorado are inside the park. However, July and August are exceptionally crowded times – the park sees over 4 million visitors a year -, so don’t expect any solitude.
Local Tip: Dangerous thunderstorms plague the park daily during afternoons in July and August. Steer clear of higher altitudes to avoid being struck by lightning, especially if you plan to travel from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park.
September is nice for the changing leaves but is also a busy time. October is far quieter in the park, but everything looks a little brown and the winds pick up.
If you want to beat the crowds, you’ll want to plan your lake hike in Rocky Mountain National Park for sunrise. This often means hiking in the dark in the morning and watching the sunrise at the lake. This is how I enjoyed Emerald Lake without any people in the middle of summer.
Local Tip: Rocky is one of the top national parks in the US for hiking, so expect to share the trail unless you hike early!
Alternatively, weekday trips to Rocky tend to be less crowded than the weekends. You can also try doing a Rocky Mountain National Park tour and make your life easier.
Map of the Top Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Get oriented with this map of lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Get the interactive version here.
Helpful Info
There are a few things you need to know before visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
Fees and advanced timed permits are required. From May through October, you’ll need a timed entry permit to enter the park. The buys Bear Lake Corridor requires a special entry permit or you’ll have to take the shuttle to enter the area. The park fee is $25 per vehicle or free with the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. Timed entry permits are free, but when you make your reservation, you’ll have an option to pay your entry fee.
Local Tip: Plan on visiting multiple national parks in a 12-month period? Or are you spending multiple days in and out of Rocky? Consider the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass to save some money.
Rocky Mountain National Park is not dog-friendly. Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails. Leaving your dog in a hot car can kill your beloved pet, so leave your pup at home.
Trail Ridge Road closes in winter. You can’t traverse the park in winter, so keep that in mind for planning.
Can You Swim in Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Legally, yes, you can swim in lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park with the exception of Bear Lake. But do you want to? Probably not. First, the water is hardly above freezing through the year.
Not to mention most of the lakes have either sharp, slippery rocks or muck and mud at the bottom. And lastly, there are lots of leeches.
Alpine lakes are fragile ecosystems. Your sunscreen and skin oil can kill wildlife both large and microscopic, disrupting the ecosystem. There are plenty of other lakes in Colorado that are suitable for swimming, so consider checking those out instead.
The Best Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
When it comes to amazing alpine lake hikes in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park takes the cake. In fact, these incredible lakes in Rocky Mountain deliver unbelievable views and the chance to spot large wildlife if you’re lucky!
Cub Lake
If you’re looking for a hike that gives you vibrant fall colors, then Cub Lake is your best bet. The trail winds through aspen trees that put on quite a display in September. You can also peep the burn area and see how destructive, yet integral forest fires are to the mountain landscapes.
Trailhead: Fern Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 6.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 744 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Approximate Time: 3 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Odessa Lake, Fern Lake
Fern Lake
As one of the quieter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Fern Lake is often overlooked by it’s more popular cousins. But if you’re willing to make the trek to this lake earlier in the morning, you may just spot a moose.
Fern Falls, one of the top waterfalls in Colorado can be found along the way. Look out for views of Notchotop Mountain and the Little Matterhorn too.
The catch? Bring bug spray since mosquitoes like to gather here.
Local Tip: The waterfall is best seen in June, when the snowmelt is highest.
Trailhead: Fern Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,476 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Approximate Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Cub Lake, Odessa Lake, Lake Helene, Spruce Lake
Odessa Lake
As one of the most beautiful lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Odessa Lake needs to be on your list. Maybe it’s the calm waters, or perhaps it’s the rugged peaks in the background, but there’s something special about Odessa Lake. Come for sunrise, pack a to-go breakfast, and revel in the views.
Oh and bonus points for passing Fern Lake along the way!
Local Tip: Approaching from the Fern Lake side is less crowded than the Bear Lake Start
Trailhead: Fern Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 9.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,978
Difficulty: moderate to difficult
Approximate Time: 4.5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Fern Lake, Spruce Lake
Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park in the Bear Lake Corridor
It’s no secret that the Bear Lake Corridor is the most popular area in the park. In fact, you can’t spend a day in Rocky Mountain National Park and not visit this iconic area. Home to several of the best lakes in Rocky Mountain NP, it’s got a buffet of blue on offer.
Dream Lake
When you look up scenes from Rocky Mountain National Park, chances are you’ll spot views of Dream Lake. Living up to it’s namesake, this must-see lake is one of the prettiest places in Colorado.
It’s no surprise this lake will see literally hundreds of hikers per day. If you’re not showing up for sunrise, expect to hike in a conga line of people to this famous spot.
Local Tip: It’s really simple – and worth it – add Emerald Lake to this hike or continue upwards to the far less-trafficked Lake Haiyaha.
Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 2.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 426 feet
Difficulty: easy
Approximate Time: 1 hour
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Elmerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha
Sprague Lake
Often overlooked for the more popular Bear Lake Trailhead, Sprague Lake is a must-see, easily accessible lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. In fact, there is even a picnic area where you can relax and enjoy the sites. What makes Sprague Lake so great is there is a paved, accessible walking path so everyone can enjoy the trail.
This trail has limited accessibility for a wheelchair, but it is the toughest of the more accessible trails in the park, and you’ll need a helper for the small hills.
Mileage: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 36 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Approximate Time: 30 minutes
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Bierstadt Lake
Bear Lake
Just steps away from the Bear Lake Trailhead, this must-see lake marks the start of virtually all of the lake hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park that are off of the Bear Lake Trailhead. It’s easy to tag this lake on to a visit to other lakes in the area, or just come here for a leisurely stroll.
The views of Hallet Peak in the distance really set the mood and there are plenty of spots to find solitude right near the water.
Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 0.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 49 feet
Difficulty: easy
Approximate Time: 45 minutes
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Bierstadt Lake
Emerald Lake
As the one of the best Colorado hikes of all time, Emarlad Lake is the busiest lake in the park. With that being said, it’s a total bucket list activity in Rocky Mountain National Park. My best piece of advice? If you want to enjoy this utterly iconic spot, hike in the dark and come for sunrise.
The sunrise in this spot brings a sense of tranquility as you watch the alpenglow light up Hallet Peak. The Emerald hike is a popular starting point for rock climbers. See if you can spot them in the sea of cliffs in the background.
Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 698 feet
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Approximate Time: 1.5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Bear Lake, Nympy Lake, Dream Lake, Lake Haiyaha
Lake Haiyaha
An excellent jaunt into the heart of the park, and one of the toprated winter hikes in Colorado, Lake Haiyaha is a great year-round option for hikers. This high-altitude oasis, features a waterfall, blue waters, and lots of dramatic rocky mountains. You’ll even be able to catch a glimpse of Long’s Peak and the Keyboard of the Winds along the way.
Local Tip: Snag 5 lakes in one day. Start by hiking all the way to Emerald Lake, then come back to Dream Lake where you can take the fork to Lake Haiyaha. Great for a moderate hike in the park.
Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 846 feet
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Approximate Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Bear Lake, Dream Lake, Nypmh Lake, Emerald Lake
Mills Lake
A tranquil spot compared to the traffic of Emerald Lake and other heavy hitters, Mills Lake is a worthwhile hike. Located not too far from the Loch, it’s easy to tag this lake on a moderate jaunt through the Glacier Gorge area.
Local Tip: It is possible to access Mills Lake and others from the Bear Lake Trailhead if the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is full, but it adds about 3-ish miles to your journey.
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead – fills up by 3 am in the summer
Mileage: 5.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 856 feet
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Approximate Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: The Loch, Sky Pond, Andrews Tarn, Lake of Glass
The Loch
The Loch is often a stop along the way to one of the more challenging lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, but the views are unbelievable from here. You’ll catch a glimpse of the infamous Cathedral Spires, home to some of the most amazing rock climbing routes in the US. These dramatic rock spires inspire a sense of wonder, and if you listen carefully, you may even hear climbers shouting their commands in the distance.
Local Tip: The Glacier Gorge Trailhead will be full by 3:30 am in the summer – especially on weekends. This is a popular area for rock climbers and sunrise photographers, both of which require an early start.
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead – fills up by 3:30 am in the summer
Mileage: 5.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,056 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Approximate Time: 2.5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Mills Lake, Sky Pond, Andrews Tarn, Lake of Glass
Lake Helene
A busy trail that passes by two other lakes (Bear Lake and Two Rivers Lake), Lake Helene delivers stunning alpine views of jagged peaks. If you want to hoof it up to treeline (past where the trees grow) but don’t want a burly commitment, Lake Helene is a great option
Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 6.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,341 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Approximate Time: 3 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Two RIvers Lake, Odessa Lake, Bear Lake
Sky Pond
One of the most popular lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, many people take on this challenging trail to the unique Sky Pond. The views from Sky Pond feature famous rock formations that jut out of the landscape like sharp teeth.
The large, pyramid-shaped rock is the Sharkstooth (aptly named), while the smaller fin of rock in front of it is the famous Petit Grippon. Nextdoor you’ll find the tall and mighty Saber. All of these are world famous rock climbing towers.
The trail isn’t easy, you’ll hike up a running gentle waterfall over slipper rocks to get to the top. Along the way you’ll pass the Loch and the Lake of Glass (right before sky pond). Continue until the trail ends at an abovious rock field.
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead – fills up by 3:30 am in the summer
Mileage: 9.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,758 feet
Difficulty: difficult, using your hands is required
Approximate Time: 4.5 to 5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: The Loch, Mills Lake, Lake of Glass
Black Lake
Black Lake’s deep colored waters give it an ominous name, but the lake itself is quite wonderful. What makes this one of the best lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park are the cliffy shores on the far side. During the early summer months, these cliffs trickle large amounts of water, creating lovely falls to enjoy.
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead – fills up by 3:30 am in the summer
Mileage: 9.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,643 feet
Difficulty: challenging
Approximate Time: 5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: The Loch, Frozen Lake
Wild Basin Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
The Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park is a deep valley that’s home to rushing waterfalls, ample wildlife, rugged peaks, and – of course – beautiful lakes. Getting here is a bit more rugged than other areas of the park. RVs aren’t allowed on the narrow road into the area.
Ouzel Lake
As one of the more popular lakes of the Wild Basin, Ouzel Lake is a stunning jewel. The hike itself shows you just how rugged the area can be and where the Wild Basin gets its name. You’ll pass by 4 waterfalls, beautiful vistas, and ragged ridge lines.
Trailhead: Wild Basin
Mileage: 10 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,683 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Approximate Time: 5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Eagle Lake, Box Lake, and Thunder Lake
Sand Beach Lake
For one of the more unique lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, check out the aptly named Beach Lake. With lots of aspen groves, Sand Beach Lake is a great option for fall. Some people find the hike a little boring, but the larger lake really makes your eyes pop. The little sandy beach is a nice perk.
Trailhead: Wild Basin
Mileage: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,086 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Approximate Time: 4.5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Copeland Lake
Other Amazing Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
There are a few other areas with amazing lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. These lakes can’t be found within the main area, but are truly must-see bodies of water in the park boundaries.
Lilly Lake
With easy access from the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (one of the top scenic drives near Denver) and plenty of beautiful shorelines, Lilly Lake is the perfect place to stretch your legs. You’ll get to soak in all the views of Mount Meeker, Longs Peak, and more.
Trailhead: Lumpy Ridge/Gem Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 29 feet
Difficulty: easy
Approximate Time: 30 minutes
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: None, but the trailhead for Chasm Lake isn’t too far away.
Gem Lake
Gem Lake in the Lumpy Ridge area is a completely different lake than anything else you’ll find in Rocky Mountain National Park. Instead of towering mountains, you’ll be surrounded by weird and whacky rock spires that jut out of the hillside. Featuring views of Estes Park and Longs Peak out in the distance, this impressive lake takes you away from the crowds and into a different side of Rocky.
Trailhead: Lumpy Ridge/Gem Lake Trailhead
Mileage: 3.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 994 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Approximate Time: 2 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: None.
Chasm Lake
Want to get up close and personal with one of the most famous Colorado 14ers (that’s a mountain over 14,000 feet tall), but don’t want the commitment of such an exposed, rocky route? Then head to the famous Chasm Lake. Located at the bottom of the impressive Diamond granite rock wall on the side of Long’s Peak. This stunning alpine lake will make you feel infintensinaly small.
Local Tip: The Longs Peak Trailhead usually fills up by 2am on most days, since avid mountain climbers need an early start.
Trailhead: Longs Peak
Mileage: 8.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,542 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Approximate Time: 5 hours
Nearby Lakes in Rocky Mountain: Peakcock Pool
Other Lakes Nearby Rocky Mountain National Park
The areas surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park are home to some pretty spectacular Lakes. Both the Granby area in the west, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness to the south have plenty of incredible lakes to explore. A few notable lakes near Rocky Mountain National Park include:
- Blue Lake in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area
- Lake Isabelle in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area
- Mirror Lake and Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness
- Grand Lake near Granby
- Granby Lake near Granby
Quick Tips for Visiting Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
When it comes to getting out into Rocky Mountain National Park, there are a few things you’ll need to know.
To beat the crowds, you’ll need to beat the sun. That’s really the secret to visiting any national park. The park itself gets crowded and parking is limited, plan accordingly.
Acclimatize to the altitude. Prevent altitude sickness by drinking plenty of water, hiking slow, and tackling tougher hikes after you’ve had a few days to get used to the thin air.
Watch the weather. Dangerous thunderstorms roll in every day during the summer months. Plan to be below the trees by 11 am to avoid getting caught in a deadly storm.
Don’t approach wildlife. Every year tourists get trampled by elk in Rocky Mountain National Park and nearby Estes Park. Keep 200 feet between you and any wildlife you encounter.
Pick up after yourself. Colorado’s outdoor spaces are being over-loved. Bring a small baggy to pack out any trash you bring in including masks, fruit peels, granola wrappers, and yes – used toilet paper. No one is here to pick up after you.
What is the Pretties Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?
There are countless gorgeous lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park but a few of the prettiest include Emerald Lake, Sky Pond, and Chasm Lake. These also happen to be some of the more popular spots to visit too, so be sure to plan your hike at a time where there are fewer people.
How Many Lakes Does Rocky Mountain National Park Have?
With over 355 hiking trails and 450 miles of streams, Rocky Mountain National Park is also home to 156 lakes. That’s quite a few! Not all of them are accessible by trail, but intrepid travelers can visit all of them with proper backcountry permits.
Additional Rocky Mountain National Park Resources
Planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park? I’ve got you covered with these local resources:
