Lake Irene Hike

The Lake Irene Trail is an idyllic adventure for families seeking an easy trek in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). Presenting the perfect excuse to get the whole family out into the mountain air, the Lake Irene Hike is one of many short, but scenic excursions of the Trail Ridge Road (this one might be our favorite)! Note that this woodland trail tracks through bear country, so a bear bell is not a bad idea to warrant unwelcomed encounters. If you see wildlife of any sort, make sure to allow them plenty of space. Note that because the hike is located within the RMNP, hikers must purchase a park pass.

Embark on your adventure along the Lake Irene Trail from the trailhead. From here, track southwest along the dirt path. Hike beneath the coverage of towering pine trees and let the fresh Colorado alpine air fill your lungs as you trek the scenic path. Shortly after your departure from the trailhead, you will arrive at Irene Lake. Enjoy the ambiance of the small, forested lake and notice sights of the Never Summer Mountain Range peeking between the trees.

Feel free to explore the perimeter of the lake and continue further down the path to a Phantom Creek access point. Appreciate the secluded nature of the trail, and when you are ready, retrace your footsteps back to the trailhead.