The Loch hike
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The Loch hike
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Hiking to The Loch in RMNP takes you to a large alpine lake at the intersection between Andrews Glacier and Taylor Glacier. The Loch offers stunningly clear reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Getting there
From Estes Park, take highway 36 west and enter RMNP at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Just after the pay station, turn left on Bear Lake Road. Follow the road for 8.5mi to the Glacier Gorge Trailhead.
About
| When to do | April to November |
| Backcountry Campsites | Camping is allowed in the backcountry, permits are required and can be obtained at the NP Visitors Center. |
| Toilets | Yes, primitive pit toilet |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Good |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
The Loch
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for The Loch
The hike to The Loch is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a beautiful hike that is a perfect half-day hike in RMNP.
From the Glacier Gorge trailhead, follow the signs for Alberta Falls and Loch Vale. The trail climbs gradually for approx. 0.8mi until reaching Alberta Falls. This is a great spot to relax and catch your breath before climbing higher in elevation. Continue hiking along the Glacier Gorge Trail until arriving at a trail junction for The Loch Trail. Follow the sign to the left and hike The Loch Trail.
This section of The Loch trail will traverse along a steep mountain side through dense forest until it eventually diverts into the small canyon of Icy Brook. Hike along Icy Brook, traversing the hill side all the way up to the lake.
The Loch is a large alpine lake that offers impressive views of the surrounding peaks, most predominantly Taylor Peak (13156ft) and Otis Peak (12486ft). The Loch sits at the intersection between Andrews Glacier to the west and Taylor Glacier to the southwest.
To get back to the Glacier Gorge trailhead, hike back the way you came by retracing your steps.
Want to find more amazing hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park? Check out Chasm Lake hike, Lake Haiyaha hike or the Sky Pond and Lake of Glass hike.
Insider Hints
After hiking to The Loch, experienced hikers who want something a bit more epic can continue to Sky Pond!
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marysmith 4 years ago
We did this hike couple of years ago. The scenic view of the snow-peaked mountain, glacier, and serene lake was unforgettable.
Jellybean 4 years ago
The Loch is one of many beautiful lake hikes in this area. Highly recommended
Stewart Graham 4 years ago
Excellent trail! A little bit rocky. Loch Vale is beautiful.
footfall 4 years ago
It was pretty much a gradual uphill hike the whole way. Not too bad but definitely a nice workout. Great views all the way.
Jane Lewitt 4 years ago
Great trail! There are so many rivers and falls across and near the lake.
BoulderBound 4 years ago
Lots of uphill. I recommend to start early. The lake water is so clear. Magnificent views.
TwoBoots 4 years ago
Trail is great, scenery is beautiful
Tom Pack. 5 years ago
Fun hike, beautiful views of the falls, well maintained trail and Beautiful views
onoyuki 5 years ago
Fantastic experience. I would like to try camping in here next time.
Digi K. 5 years ago
It was so fun trekking and traversing along the steep mountainside. The views were great, but it's not advisable for everyone.