Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the country, including crystal-clear alpine lakes that are just waiting to be explored. In this guide, we’ll cover 7 of the most stunning lake hikes in and around these areas.

1. Dream Lake Trail: This 3.2-mile hike takes you to Dream Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 1,100 feet. From the shores of Dream Lake, you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making this hike a photographer’s dream.
2. Emerald Lake Trail: This 3.5-mile hike takes you to Emerald Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 1,500 feet. From the shores of Emerald Lake, you’ll have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making this hike a must-do for any nature lover.
3. Bear Lake Trail: This 0.6-mile hike takes you to Bear Lake, a small but stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is easy in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 200 feet. Bear Lake is a popular destination for families and first-time hikers, and is the perfect place to relax and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
4. Alberta Falls Trail: This 1.7-mile hike takes you to Alberta Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is easy in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 300 feet. Along the way, you’ll pass by a number of serene alpine lakes, making this hike the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the area without overexerting yourself.
5. Loch Vale Trail: This 4.2-mile hike takes you to the top of Loch Vale, a serene alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 1,400 feet. From the top of Loch Vale, you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, making this hike a must-do for any nature lover.
6. The Pool on the Big Thompson Trail: This 2.8-mile hike takes you to the serene Pool on the Big Thompson, a small but stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is easy in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 800 feet. The Pool on the Big Thompson is a popular destination for families and first-time hikers, and is the perfect place to relax and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
7. Sky Pond Trail: This 8.4-mile hike takes you to Sky Pond, a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is strenuous in difficulty, with a total elevation gain of just over 3,500 feet. From the shores of Sky Pond, you’ll have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, making this hike a must-do for any experienced hiker.

No matter what level of hiker you are, these 7 lake hikes in and around Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are sure to be an unforgettable experience. So grab your hiking gear, grab your furry friend, and hit the trails for an adventure you’ll never forget!