The Loch Vale Hike
Larimer County, Colorado
Details
Distance
5.53 miles
Elevation Gain
1093 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Kyle Frost
Loch Vale is a short hike in Rocky Mountain National Park rewards hikers with a spectacular lake and alpine backdrop. Fantastic spot at sunrise!
The trail starts at the Glacier Gorge trailhead along the road to Bear Lake. After hiking for just under a mile, you'll pass Alberta Falls and continue up the trail through the gorge. At about 2 miles you'll reach a clear junction, with trails towards Mills Lake, Lake Haiyaha, and The Loch. Take the Loch trail and climb up through some switchbacks until arriving at the lake.
The main trail continues to the right, but make your way to wherever you feel is the best vantage point of the lake, the views are wonderful. There's a small 'peninsula' (pictured) that is accessed by veering to the left as soon as you reach the lake.
TIMED ENTRY
To manage crowding and protect natural resources, Rocky Mountain National Park requires timed entry reservations during peak season (typically from late May through mid-October). Reservations are required daily from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for most areas of the park, with two options: “Park Access + Bear Lake Road” and “Park Access (excluding Bear Lake Road).” You’ll also need a park entrance pass (such as a 1-day, 7-day, or Interagency Annual Pass) in addition to your timed entry reservation. For current dates, details, and to reserve your spot, visit the NPS timed entry page or go directly to Recreation.gov to book.
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The Loch Vale Hike Reviews
Stopped here to enjoy lunch on our way up to Sky Pond. The trail is incredible and I highly recommend going all the way up! Plan to spend most of a day doing so, however, it is over 9 miles round trip.
5.0
The hike is rather easy and the water is gleaming here, I also love Alberta Falls
5.0
Trail was well marked and only crowded in the first mile to Alberta Falls. After that we basically had the trail to ourselves. Still hiked through some snow near the lake but totally manageable and the views were still lovely.
5.0
The Loch is always a fun hike. Definitely consider hiking around the right side of the lake and checking out either Andrews Canyon or Timberline Falls with Sky Pond beyond.
5.0
I have hiked to this lake once and snowshoed as well. It is one of my favorite in Rocky Mountain National Park. Truly stunning views. Both times it was fairly windy and cold but totally worth it. You can go on and hike to many other nearby lakes and points of interest such as Mills Lake.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge Trailhead
The Loch Lake Trail via Glacier Gorge Trail
Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trailhead
Green Lake via Glacier Gorge Trail
Alberta Falls Trail
Black Lake Trail
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