Catch a Sunrise at Dream Lake
2.2 Miles
402 Feet
Photography, Snowshoeing, Hiking
Beginner
Year Round
Out-and-Back
Gorgeous hike in the Rocky Mountain National Park, one hour from Boulder, CO. This is a pretty short hike so catching a sunrise isn't too rough, and it's one of the few hikes in the park that is manageable in any season.
Begin at the Bear Lake Trailhead, located at the end of Bear Lake Road, 9 miles from the entrance on Highway 36. Follow the signs to Dream Lake, passing Nymph Lake about halfway through. At 1.1 miles you will reach Dream Lake. The views of 12,713-foot Hallett Peak and 12,324-foot Flattop Mountain from the east shore of this subalpine lake are incredible, and the perfect backdrop for this aptly named lake. On your way back to the parking lot, be sure to get some shots from the trail as the mountain views headed down are some of the best in the park.
Be sure to check the trail status before you go to get the most current conditions. Micro spikes in the winter are a must, and possibly snow shoes if the trail is not packed down. Also, keep in mind that this is an alpine lake around 10,000 ft, and also can experience very intense winds - be prepared!
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Nearby Lodging
Reviews
Overall rating:
Beautiful In The Winter
I came in the winter and it was beautiful with the lakes frozen over. It WAS freezing though prepare accordingly -- my phone died multiple times due to the cold. I did rent snowshoes but they weren't really necessary as long as you're careful in the deeper snow areas.
Great Hike In RMNP
Such a fun hike that connects with plenty of other trails. Hiked through the snow and watched the terrain change often
Low Effort, High Reward Hike
This is a gorgeous spot to watch sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park. Since it's relatively short it makes it a great low effort, hike reward hike that is perfect for sunrises. Alpenglow lights up the surrounding mountains and if there are any clouds in the sky they glow pink and orange!
