Rocky Mountain National Park contains some of Colorado's most spectacular alpine lakes. From easy-access gems to backcountry destinations, here are the must-see lakes near Estes Park.
Estes Park Lakes
Alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake
RMNP's Most Popular
Iconic alpine lake at 9,450 feet with easy 0.5-mile loop trail. Stunning reflections of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
Easy Access
0.5 mi
Dream Lake
Alpine Paradise
Stunning lake with Hallett Peak backdrop. 2.2-mile roundtrip from Bear Lake through forest and past Nymph Lake.
2.2 mi RT
Moderate
Emerald Lake
Cirque Basin Gem
Spectacular lake in glacial cirque. 3.6-mile roundtrip from Bear Lake, passing Nymph and Dream lakes.
3.6 mi RT
Moderate
Sprague Lake
Family Favorite
Accessible 0.5-mile loop with stunning sunrise views. Wheelchair accessible, great for families and photographers.
Easy
Accessible
Sky Pond
Alpine Adventure
Remote alpine lake below Taylor Glacier and the Sharkstooth. 9-mile roundtrip with scramble through Timberline Falls.
9 mi RT
Difficult
Lake Haiyaha
Boulder-Strewn Beauty
Dramatic lake surrounded by massive boulders. 4.4-mile roundtrip with less crowds than Dream Lake trail.
4.4 mi RT
Moderate
Chasm Lake
Below Longs Peak
Dramatic lake in glacial cirque beneath Longs Peak Diamond Face. 8.4-mile roundtrip challenging hike.
8.4 mi RT
Strenuous
Lake Estes
In-Town Recreation
Town lake with 3.75-mile paved trail, kayak rentals, and fishing. Marina with paddleboard and boat rentals.
Boating
Fishing