Loch Lake Hike Map
Loch Lake Hike Map

Loch Lake Hike

Rocky Mountain National Park
View Photos
Loch Lake Hike

Loch Lake Hike

Distance: 5.4mi
Elevation: 1,056ft
Time: 2.5-3.5h

Difficulty Rating:

User Ratings:
No ratings yet

The Loch Lake Hike is a stunning, well-maintained excursion into the mountain cirques of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike through the glacial gorge lined with vibrant aspens up to Alberta Falls before summiting the ridge to the crystalline alpine Loch Lake.

Loch Lake Hike Map

Getting there

The Loch Lake Trail is accessed via the Glacial Gorge Trailhead off the Bear Lake Road.

I’ve done this 0 people have done this
I want to do this 0 want to do this route

About

Backcountry Campground

No

When to do

Year-round

Pets allowed

No

Family friendly

Yes

Route Signage

Good

Crowd Levels

Extreme

Route Type

Out and back


Loch Lake Hike
Elevation Graph


Loch Lake Hike Description

The Loch Lake Hike is a scenic adventure in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). If you were in search of a quiet secluded hike, then you may want to consider another trail. The Loch Lake Hike, along with the surrounding alpine lake adventures in the Glacial Gorge area are some of the most frequented hikes in the park, and there is no doubt as to why. THe Loch Lake Hike will guide you through undeniably scenic terrains up to the shimmering alpine lake, nestled between looming snow-capped peaks. Due to the high elevation of the area, you can expect snow in the autumn and winter months, so we suggest packing a pair of microspikes to help you navigate the likely icy terrain. Note that because the trail is located within the boundaries of the RMNP, visitors are required to purchase a park pass.

Begin your adventure up to Loch Lake from the Glacial Gorge trailhead. From here, track southwest along the Glacial Gorge Trail, intersecting with Chaos Creek. Soon after your departure from the trailhead you will encounter a junction. Here stay left and maintain along the Glacial Gorge Trail and at the next intersection, keep right. Hike through the aspen grove and up to the Alberta Falls. This is a great spot to enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the cascades before beginning the final push. Merge back onto the forested route and ascend the trail along Glacial Creek.

At the next intersection, stay right and hike along the base of the Glacier Knobs. Eventually, you will encounter another intersection; between the three trails, take the middle one and hike up to Loch Lake. From the lake enjoy the expansive views of the encompassing craggy peaks that flank the glacial gorge. The lake presents a great opportunity to dip your tired feet into the chilly waters before beginning your descent. When you are ready, simply retrace your steps along the path back to the trailhead.

Comments

0 Comments

Similar hikes to the Loch Lake Hike hike

Shipler Cabin Trail Map

Shipler Cabin Trail

Difficulty:
4.1mi
427ft
1.5-2h

The Shipler Cabin Trail is a magical adventure in the Rocky Mountain National Park through meadowlands and towering pines. Perfect…

Six Lakes Hike

Six Lakes Hike

Difficulty:
7.4mi
1480ft
3.5-4.5h

The Six Lakes Hike is a stunning alpine adventure in the Rocky Mountain National Park. If you love lake hikes…

Lookout Mountain Hike

Lookout Mountain Hike

Difficulty:
4.6mi
1955ft
3-4h

The Lookout Mountain Hike is a stunning woodland adventure on the eastern boundary of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Trek…