Rocky Mountain National Park is a very beautiful and very popular US National Park. The park is simply a playground; lots of world-class alpine climbs and seasonal backcountry skiing and snowboarding in a stunning setting. Loads of massive rocky peaks, stunning waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, alpine lakes and much more. Today we will be taking a short hiatus from climbing and mountaineering posts to highlight an excellent hiking trail that shows off some of the best that this special National Park has to offer, with a distance and elevation gain that suits all ages.
Quick Stats:
- Length: 5.4 miles
- Elevation Change: 1,072 ft
- Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Gorge
- Link: Loch Vale
Trail Overview
The hike to Loch Vale lies in the Glacier Gorge section of Rocky Mountain National Park. Loch Vale is a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by large rocky peaks. The trail is used by alpine climbers to access excellent climbs in the National Park; but it is much, much more popular for the average park-goer and hiker who is simply looking to enjoy the stunning beauty. At 5.4 miles and 1,072 feet of elevation gain; the hike is moderate enough for most any individual to enjoy. For the more ambitious and or fit, the trail is also the first 3/5 of the way to Sky Pond; another excellent hiking destination within Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike can be done year-round, if road access is available. The trail will be melted out during summer months, but in late fall through spring the trail will be almost completely snow-covered. If the snow is fresh, aka late fall, winter, and early spring, cross-country skis or snowshoes may be necessary/preferred to avoid post-holing. Snow later in the spring that is in its melting stage will be well-packed and can be traveled on without need of the aforementioned trusty anti-posthole items.
Logistical Suggestions and Information
Rocky Mountain National Park, along with most national parks, requires an access fee. Rocky Mountain’s day vehicle day pass is $30, and a seven-day pass is $35. I highly recommend purchasing the National Park Pass for $80. It is just about the best purchase money can buy; giving you unlimited free access to all US National Parks, National Forests, and many National Monuments and State Parks for one calendar year. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the system. To be able to park at the parking lot with your own vehicle, I recommend during the peak season to arrive at the trailhead no later than 7:30 AM to guarantee yourself a spot. After the lot fills, the park will no longer allow personal vehicle access to the trailheads to keep people from parking on the side of the road and destroying vegetation. Fear not though! The park has an excellent shuttle system that will take you to and from trailheads; you will just have to be slightly more patient waiting for the buses to pick you up! Visiting in the off-season can also lead to reduced crowds and be even more special as you can enjoy the hike in snow, yet warm conditions.
Personal Experience
My stroll to Loch Vale took place in Mid-May 2019; on my way out to Seattle, for my internship at Boeing. I got to enjoy the hike with my dad who was along for the journey out west. Since our stop was in May, we were fortunate to avoid peak crowds, while getting to enjoy the hike at what I believe to be the best time of year. The trail was almost entirely snow-covered, but temperatures were in the mid-sixties and the sky was immaculately blue. We hit the road from my Uncle’s in Parker, Colorado around 7 AM and arrived at the trailhead a little after 9. After packing some snacks and plenty of water we hit the trail. The hike was extremely enjoyable in the comfortable spring temperatures and snowy trail. We arrived at Loch Vale itself around 1pm, and enjoyed some lunch at our beautiful destination, and took a 45-minute break. After a healthy break and some snacks, imposing-appearing clouds began to move in, and we decided it best to boogey on out of there. Our evening ended with a delicious pizza dinner at Antonio’s, an absolute must-visit when in Estes Park. A successful first-time visit to the park for my dad, and a good rest day for myself before climbing at Sink’s Canyon in Lander, Wyoming, the next day. Funky but Gunky Review.
Natural Snow Cave and Natural Dad 
Peaks and Valleys 
Frozen Waterfall 
Canyon that apparently is a waterfall during summer months
Wrapping Up:
The hike to Loch Vale is a beautiful and easy hike for all to enjoy. It highlights many of the best features of the Rocky Mountains; large peaks, coniferous forests, crystal clear lakes, and perhaps some wildlife. The only slight bummer is the large number of visitors who will be joining you on your jaunt. Make sure to arrive early, or even better, visit in the off-season like yours truly and enjoy the hike through the snow!
Alpine Experiences 