The Loch Vale Hike
Larimer County, Colorado
Details
Distance
5.53 miles
Elevation Gain
1056 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.
Download the Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
The Loch Vale Hike Reviews
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
Community
Mobile Apps
© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy