9 Best Easy Lake Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re looking for the best, easy lake hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ve come to the right place!

There are 156 lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, all beautiful. And many are spectacular! But they are not all easy to get to. Many involve very long hikes up steep elevations in high altitudes over rocky terrain.

It’s never a good idea to tackle a hike that is going to be too difficult for you, or even dangerous. But the good news is there are plenty of hikes available to you that are appropriate for all ages and skill levels.

And these hikes don’t take you to small ponds – they end at beautiful, even iconic destinations. Here are nine lake hikes to get you started.

Published September 26, 2023…Updated January 7, 2025

The Lake Hikes

1. Bear Lake

Bear Lake is one of the best-known and most-visited lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail loops around the small lake, with photo opps every few steps.

It is also the beginning point for hiking to the next three lakes on this list. Four great lakes on one hike!

Quick Facts

• Distance: – 0.7 mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Very Easy
• Duration: 15-20 minutes
• Directions: From Estes Park, CO, travel 3.8 miles on US-36W/Moraine Ave into Rocky Mountain National Park through the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Then turn left onto Bear Lake Rd and travel 9.4 miles to the trailhead.

• Restrooms? Yes.
• Parking? Lots of parking.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes, especially on the weekends!
• Visitor Center? Yes and No… There is no real visitor center here, but there is a Ranger Station, and rangers and volunteers are usually available to answer any questions you have.

2. Nymph Lake

When you complete the loop around Bear Lake, follow the signs to Nymph Lake. It’s a small, pretty lake surrounded by evergreens. The lake is filled with water lilies sporting yellow flower blooms during the summer.

Look for the ducks on the lake. There was a “Mother Duck” with her ducklings swimming right next to the shoreline where we were standing. They were very friendly!

The trail continues around one side of the lake. At the far end, stop and take a look back over the lake at the mountains in the distance. Photo opp!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.5 miles from the trailhead at the end of the Bear Lake loop
• Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
• Duration: 15-20 minutes
• Directions: From the end of the Bear Lake loop, follow the signs to Nymph Lake

• Restrooms? Yes, in the Bear Creek parking area.
• Parking? Lots of parking.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes, especially on the weekends, but not as much as Bear Lake
• Visitor Center? Yes and No… There is no real visitor center here, but there is a Ranger Station, and rangers and volunteers are usually available to answer any questions you have.

3. Dream Lake

Dream Lake is one of the “can’t miss” lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The mountain views here are stunning. The lake itself is a beautiful blue-green color. There are large stone outcroppings here that are great for climbing and for taking photos.

Look for the cutthroat trout near the shoreline of the lake. They are easily identified by their bright red throats. They will swim within 3-5 feet of you.

This is one of our two favorite lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.6 miles past Nymph Lake
• Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
• Duration: 20 minutes
• Directions: Follow the trail from Nymph Lake to Dream Lake. Along the way, you will pass an amazing view looking down at Nymph Lake. When you arrive at the fork in the trail, take the right fork. Dream Lake is 0.1 mile ahead. (The left fork leads to Lake Haiyaha.)

• Restrooms? Yes, in the Bear Creek parking area.
• Parking? Lots of parking.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes, especially on the weekends, but not as much as Bear Lake
• Visitor Center? Yes and No… There is no real visitor center here, but there is a Ranger Station, and rangers and volunteers are usually available to answer any questions you have.

4. Emerald Lake

The fourth lake on this epic hike is Emerald Lake. You’ll have to decide for yourself whether you love Dream Lake or Emerald Lake more – for me it’s a toss-up. They are both stunning.

This lake is aptly named. It is the color of a beautiful emerald, especially when the sun is shining on it.

At the front end of the lake is a large, tall area of boulders. Climb up on them, and you will experience some truly wonderful views of the lake. We just sat there for a while, taking in the views. So peaceful.

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.6 miles past Dream Lake
• Difficulty: Moderately Challenging. The trail is a bit steeper here.
• Duration: 20 minutes
• Directions: Follow the trail from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake. Along the way, you will pass several cascades, some of which are fairly large. We also had to cross over some patches of snow – in July.

• Restrooms? Yes, in the Bear Creek parking area.
• Parking? Lots of parking.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes, especially on the weekends, but not as much as Bear Lake
• Visitor Center? Yes and No… There is no real visitor center here, but there is a Ranger Station, and rangers and volunteers are usually available to answer any questions you have.

5. Lake Irene

We almost missed Lake Irene. It’s not very well-known. There’s not a large sign pointing to it. But it is one of our favorite lakes in the Rocky Mountain National Park.

This little beauty is a gorgeous lake in a gorgeous setting. From the photo above you can see how well its waters mirror its surroundings.

And it’s quiet, peaceful. Not crowded. Plus there’s a picnic area there with tables – bring a lunch!

When you get to the end of the lake, it’s a bit confusing as to how you get to the last half of the loop – there’s no clear path that we could discern here.

However, as you continue walking on the trail, you will come to a sign – you can go left a few steps to the Ute Trail, or right will come to a “viewing platform” of a beautiful mountain meadow. Take the left to Ute Trail, go left when you come to the trail, and it will take you back to the Lake Irene trailhead.

Quick Facts

• Distance: A bit less than 1.0 mile roundtrip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 20-30 minutes
• Directions: Travel from Estes Park on US-36W/Moraine Ave towards Rocky Mountain National Park. You will enter the park at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station, where the road becomes Trail Ridge Road. Continue on this beautiful drive for 27 miles until you see the entrance to Lake Irene. You will pass the Alpine Visitors Center 5.2 miles before you get to the Lake.

• Restrooms? Yes, parking area.
• Parking? There is a small parking lot here.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? No – very quiet and peaceful.
• Visitor Center? No

6. Lily Lake

What a surprise Lily Lake turned out to be! First, there were friendly animals everywhere! Chipmunks, birds, muskrats,…plus the lake was home to tiger salamanders. (We had to ask a local what they were – I thought they were hellbenders.)

Second, the wildflowers were blooming and beautiful.

Third, the trail is a loop around the lake. It is flat and very easy, with gorgeous scenery surrounding the lake. Long’s Peak and the Twin Sisters mountain peaks are easily seen from here. This felt more like a stroll than a hike. Very relaxing!

Finally, the lake is very easy to get to. You just park your car, walk a few steps and you’re there! Easy peasy!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.8 mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 30 minutes
• Directions: Travel south from Estes Park on Highway 7 for 6.1 miles. The lake and parking lot are on the west (right) side of the road.

• Restrooms? Yes, in the parking area.
• Parking? There is a parking lot here with 20 spaces, including handicap-accessible spaces.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes…and No. There were a lot of people at the lake on the day we went. However, the loop around the lake is large and kept us all spaced out. It did not feel crowded at all.
• Visitor Center? No

7. Sprague Lake

We enjoyed Sprague Lake so much that we went there twice! This lake hike has a lot going for it. The trail is flat and very easy. There are benches along the path, as well as a viewing platform. The surrounding scenery is just beautiful. Lots of wildflowers.

If you’re looking for animals, this is one of the lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park you must visit! We were told by a ranger that Sprague Lake is a great place for seeing wildlife. She was right! On our first visit there, two elk were enjoying a dip in the lake just a few yards from shore.

And on our second visit, there was a moose in the same spot, also enjoying the water. While watching the moose, I turned around and spied a coyote watching us. Plus the “Usuals” – ducks, chipmunks, etc…

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.8 mile loop around the lake
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 15-30 minutes, depending on how many times you stop for photos
• Directions: Sprague Lake is a 10-mile drive from Estes Park, CO. Travel towards Rocky Mountain National Park on US-36W/Moraine Ave. Enter the park at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Take a left onto Bear Lake Rd, travel 5.8 miles, then turn left on Sprague Lake Rd. Travel another 0.3 miles and you’re there.

• Restrooms? Yes, in the parking area.
• Parking? There is lots of parking here, plus a picnic area.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes…and No, just like Lily Lake (see previous lake hike in list). There were a lot of people at the lake on the day we went. However, the loop around the lake is large and kept us all spaced out. It did not feel crowded at all.
• Visitor Center? No

8. Gem Lake

Gem Lake is probably the most difficult hike on this list, due to its elevation gain, but if you’re in good shape physically, it’s a great hike! (After all, I’m in my mid-sixties, and I made it!)

The lake is just beautiful – it really is a gem! It’s bordered on one side by small rock cliffs, and on the other side by a flatter sand shore with trees. Both sides are great for picnicking and enjoying the view.

The hike is not long, but it is a bit steep. It’s a steady climb all the way to the lake. Fortunately, some kind souls at the National Park Service have crafted stair-steps all along the way, making the climb a bit easier.

BONUS: You can continue past Gem Lake on the same trail to Balanced Rock! Balanced Rock is exactly what it sounds like it is – a really big boulder balanced atop a very small pedestal. Plus, the hike to Balanced Rock is very nice.

Quick Facts

• Distance: 3.2 miles roundtrip to Gem Lake; 7.3 miles roundtrip to Gem Lake + Balanced Rock.
• Difficulty: Moderately Challenging. According to AllTrails, there is a 987′ elevation gain on the Gem Lake portion of the trail. If you add in Balanced Rock, the entire elevation gain becomes 1696′.
• Duration: The entire hike to Balanced Rock and back took me 4 hrs 45 minutes, including stops at Gem Lake, photo opps, rest breaks, etc… Plus, I’m in my 60’s…

• Directions: Gem Lake is just on the outskirts of Estes Park, CO. Take MacGregor Ave heading north out of Estes Park. You’ll come to a traffic circle – continue straight. You’ll soon pass the historic Stanley Hotel.
• Drive 0.8 miles and MacGregor Ave will turn slightly right and become Devil’s Gulch Rd. Travel another 0.6 miles, then turn left on Lumpy Ridge Rd. The trailhead is 0.3 miles down this road.
• Restrooms? Yes, in the parking area.
• Parking? There is lots of parking here, but get here early – it fills up quickly!
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? Yes, especially on the weekends.
• Visitor Center? No

9. Copeland Lake

At first, I wasn’t very impressed with Copeland Lake. The view when I exited our car was very ordinary, even disappointing. But then my wife began to walk around the lake and returned with the above photo. From this angle Copeland is amazing. Your opinion of the lake will probably depend on where you are standing.

But there’s another reason to visit Copeland Lake – it’s just a short distance from Copeland Falls, and they are far from ordinary. They are not very high, but they are impressive!

Plus, the hike to Copeland Falls is fairly easy, and it is covered up with wildflowers.

Quick Facts

• Distance: Since you park right across the road from the lake, the distance is up to you. You can walk around the end of the lake to see the view pictured above, or you can just cross the road and there it is!
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 15 minutes

• Directions: From Estes Park, take US-36E for 0.4 miles, then take a slight right turn onto CO-7E/South St. Vrain Ave. Travel 13 miles, then turn right onto County Rd 84W. Keep your eyes open – this turn will sneak up on you.
• After 0.4 miles turn right onto CO Hwy 115. Another 0.3 miles and you’re there. This is the Wild Basin area of the park. You will drive through a “rustic” area, then arrive at an Entrance Station and parking lot. This is also the trailhead to sand Beach Lake. Continue driving straight ahead from here until you reach the lake.

• Restrooms? Yes, but only in the Copeland Falls parking area, a bit on down the road from Copeland Lake.
• Parking? Three parking areas: (1) Wild Basin Entrance Station (2) A small lot right by Copeland Lake (3) A larger lot at the trailhead to Copeland Falls.
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? No
• Visitor Center? No

Bonus! Copeland Falls

In my humble opinion, the main reason to visit Copeland Lake is to see Copeland Falls. They are truly worth a visit!

Copeland Falls is divided into two sections – the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls. The falls are not especially high, but they do have an impressive amount of water spilling over them.

There were also a LOT of beautiful wildflowers blooming along the trail while we were there (in July). We saw Colorado Blue Columbine, Ninebark, Shrubby Cinquefoil, and many other varieties. (We are obviously “plant nerds”!)

Quick Facts

• Distance: 0.3 miles one way from the trailhead to Lower Falls; another 0.1 miles past that to Upper Falls. (Be Aware: AllTrails states this hike is 5.8 miles roundtrip, but they are using a different starting point.)
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate. Mostly flat, gravel trail.
• Duration: Just under one hour, but we spent a lot of time stopping for photos
• Directions: From Copeland Lake, continue down the rough, bumpy gravel road for 0.3 miles. Be Aware: No RVs are allowed on this road. You will pass several small parking areas on the way. The road deadends into the parking lot at the trailhead.

• Restrooms? Yes, in the parking area.
• Parking? Yes
• Dogs Allowed? No.
• Crowded? No
• Visitor Center? No, but there is a Ranger Station here

Map: Best Easy Lake Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Click here for an interactive map.

Gear We Recommend for Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park

Having the right gear can mean the difference between a pleasant hike and a painful one. Here are a few things we recommend to keep you healthy and happy as you hike to the lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Clothing

Footwear – We always recommend hiking boots. Hiking in sandals is NEVER a good idea. Trail shoes are fine, but they won’t provide the traction or stability that boots will, and they will usually keep your feet warmer and dryer. I wear Oboz hiking boots; my wife has a pair of Keens. We have been very happy with these.

Socks – Blisters will ruin your hike, and cut short your hiking plans. Get yourself some very good hiking socks. They’ll cost more, but you will notice the difference immediately! We like Darn Tough and Smartwool brands.

Headwear – As a bald (yet very attractive) man, I am very conscious of the damage the sun can inflict on you. Get a hat! It will protect your skin, shade your eyes, keep you cooler in warm weather, and warmer in cool weather. I’ve been wearing the same Columbia hiking hat for years.

Hiking Gear

Hiking Poles – Mary Ellen, my wife, always takes hiking poles with her. They are like a second pair of legs! They help you maintain your balance and make hiking easier. REI carries a large selection to choose from.

Water Bottle – We ALWAYS take water when we hike, even if it’s a short hike. There are just too many stories of hikers getting lost or injured. We’ve been using Nalgene Water Bottles for years. We also use HydroFlask Water Bottles – they are insulated to keep your hot stuff hot and your cold stuff cold.

AllTrails – This phone app should be on every hiker’s phone, and their phones should be in their pockets or packs. AllTrails gives you a brief description of the trail, downloadable maps that can be used offline, directions to the trailhead, recommendations, reviews, and more.

Phone – Don’t forget your phone. You’ll want it for photos, and you may need it if you run into a problem. I’m amazed at how often and where I have phone service when I’m hiking.

Backpack – You need a backpack to carry your stuff in. A lightweight daypack will be suitable for most people. Mary Ellen and I both use Cotopaxi Del Dia packs. They are lightweight, tough, and fun colors. REI also carries a large selection of packs.

Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is located just west of Estes Park, CO, a delightful little town full of fun things to do, great places to eat, and many lodging options. Here are three options you might like.

Best Budget Option

Let me point you in the direction of the Alpine Trail Ridge Inn, where room rates begin at a mere $124.60 per night! However, affordability certainly doesn’t equate to a lack of quality. This inn provides all the standard amenities you’d expect, along with the added bonus of a seasonal outdoor pool.

The Alpine Trail Ridge Inn boasts an excellent location, positioned neatly between Estes Park and the Beaver Meadows Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. It also sits next door to Bird and Jim’s, a very popular restaurant in the area.

Best Mid-Range Option

To be fair, the term “mid-range” can be somewhat subjective (given that Estes Park isn’t known for its budget-friendly accommodations), but we really like the Holiday Inn in Estes Park (formerly known as “The Ridgeline Hotel.”)

The Holiday Inn is conveniently located just a short walk from downtown Estes Park. Among its amenities, you’ll find an in-house restaurant, an inviting indoor pool, a convenient snack pantry, and a Starbucks coffee machine in the lobby.

Step outside, and you’ll discover an outdoor seating area with chairs around cozy gas fire pits—don’t miss the opportunity to grab complimentary S’mores kits to enjoy while you gather around the fire, gazing up at the starry night sky!

In terms of additional perks, the hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast at no extra cost, a well-equipped fitness center, and it extends a warm welcome to your furry companions, as it’s pet-friendly. What’s more, it’s conveniently directly across the street from El Mex-Kal Restaurant, a charming Mexican eatery favored by locals. We recommend the chips and salsa!

Best Luxury Option

For a unique luxury retreat, may I suggest “The Stanley Hotel“? This iconic hotel is ideally situated halfway between downtown Estes Park and the Gem Lake trailhead.

The Stanley Hotel served as the creative spark for Stephen King’s well-known work, “The Shining.” During his stay here, King experienced a vivid dream about his young son being pursued throughout the hotel—an event that marked the inception of his novel. Additionally, this establishment offers rooms (in high demand) that have gained a reputation for their paranormal occurrences!

The Stanley Hotel features a selection of four distinct lodging options. Below, you’ll find a brief overview of each.

“The Stanley” – Immerse yourself in the historic allure of our spirited main hotel building, which first opened its doors in 1909.

“The Lodge at the Stanley” – Where elegance seamlessly blends with boutique charm, offering a more intimate and personalized stay.

“The Residences at the Stanley” – Opt for one of our fully equipped private condo residences to accommodate your upcoming group getaway.

“Aspire Hotel and Spa” – Experience stylish accommodations and apartment-like suites complete with air conditioning and fully-equipped kitchens.

Rocky Mountain National Park FAQs

Which of These Lake Hikes is the Best?

These are all wonderful hikes, but if you can’t do them all, then take the Bear Lake to Emerald Lake hike. The lakes are beautiful, the scenery is spectacular, and you get FOUR lakes in one hike!

Which of These Lake Hikes is the Shortest?

Try Lily Lake or Sprague Lake. They are both easy, flat, and less than one mile.

Which Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park Should I Visit to See Wildlife?

Go to Sprague Lake in the late afternoon/early evening. We saw moose, elk, coyote, and chipmunks there.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park Open Year-Round?

The Park is open 24/7/365 – WEATHER PERMITTING. Visit nps.gov (National Park Service) for up-to-date info.

Do I Need a Parking Pass?

The Verdict – 9 Best Easy Lake Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

It’s hard to go wrong in Rocky Mountain National Park. It has it all – beautiful lakes, stunning mountain scenery, wild animals, beautiful wildflowers, friendly rangers. Really, the only way to go wrong here is if you choose a hike that’s too physically demanding for you. But you don’t have to!

We have given you a list of the 9 Best Easy Lake Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and we highly recommend each of them. Just don’t forget your camera – you’re going to need it!

Happy Hiking!

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