Experience this 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Estes Park, Colorado. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 52 min to complete. This is a very popular area for fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.
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Hiked 5/18. Definitely need at least spikes. Poles also ideal. Do NOT go out there in shorts, t-shirt, and tennis shoes. Depending on the day the shorts and t might be fine, but certainly not the tennis shoes, which we saw far more of than we would have expected. It went about as well as you can imagine. Trail is definitely moderate if you're at least a semi avid hiker, and I would even put it on the lower end of moderate. A bit higher with the snow/ice. Parking was insane, though that probably has as much to do with it being one of the few great hiking areas of the park open at the time. As of Memorial Day weekend they'll have the shuttle running, just be aware that it doesn't go all the way to the Bear Lake lot. It drops you at the Gorge lot, and you have 3/4ish mile hike from there to trailhead, and it's a decent incline, though pretty manageable. Otherwise, the hike was absolutely spectacular and one of the best bangs for your buck you'll get hiking wise. It's well worth going all the way to the end!
Probably the most beautiful trail I have ever hiked— words cannot describe it!! Although it is strenuous going up, it is totally worth it!!! However, spikes and poles make all the difference ! May seem like an overkill, but people were sitting down and sliding because there is just no traction without them. Enjoy your hike!!!
Hiked on 5/13. Beautiful hike, though I will echo other reviewers to wear spikes! Started the hike around 0900 and by 1000 the snow warmed up and was very slippery. I would not attempt this without spikes until the snowpack clears, and spikes are easily rentable at many of the outfitters in Estes. Still absolutely worth it, there were plenty of amazing views!
We are in the mid 60s. We made to Dream Lake and back and made a complete loop around Bear Lake. Snowy conditions all the way. We would not have made it without crampons and poles. Going down is especially hard without the gears for older people. We enjoyed every second of our first ever Rocky Mountain.
Spikes and Poles - not bad with spikes but if you go later morning/afternoon and its sunny and warm, youll slip and slide. Ranger mentioned lakes will start showing water next week, started to see water in some places already. Also lot was packed Sat by 11am, 1/2 full by 8am, advise getting there early
This trail was an easier hike that we really enjoyed. The lakes are still frozen over so you can walk across easily. Lots of skiers and snowboarders along the way. We found spikes to be very helpful but you could do it without. This is a nice trail if you have children joining. Definitely recommend!
