lily lake trailhead

Walking the trailhead and the lake is worth the effort and offers some lovely views. The walk around the lake is easy and has wheelchair access. Tranquil spot

We did the lake walk and enjoyed it very much. Its not strenuous as its a boardwalk, but the views are lovely.

This was a nice and easy hike around a beautiful lake. Their was almost no elevation change and at times you were right next to the water. We saw several ducks and a muskrat. We even saw someone at the very top of the mountain walking a tightrope. It was worth the visit and I recommend it as a stop if you drive "Peak to Peak". I would also say it would be worth the drive from Boulder or Estes Park. They also allow catch and release fishing and have other trails in the area if you wanted a longer or harder hike.

I went in this with my cousin, and his 4 kids (ages 7,4, and 1 y/o twins on our backs). Trails were easy and the views were amazing. There was free parking and restrooms at the trail head. A few other trails in the same location as well.

Lily Lake is reached by going south on Route 7 from Estes Park. Looking at a park map, it would appear to be just about outside of the park. The trail around the lake is approximately 0.8 mile. There were tons of ducklings (several species) on the lake. We attached ourselves to a ranger-led talk, which had just started. This was fortunate for us as the talk was very informative. This was a very scenic trail. On one side of the lake, the water was easily accessible, and there were a bunch of kids in it.One negative note: the parking there is horrendous. There's a very small parking lot. Most people parked in the lot across from the lake or on the side of a very busy road (cars did not stop for pedestrians trying to cross!).

You can choose to hike around the lake on a flat trail (perfect for strollers or small children) or veer off up the mountain for half of the hike to get an awesome view from above. I highly recommend the upper trail. It is not overly difficult and there are plenty of places to rest and take photos. There are bathroom facilities and picnic tables at the parking lot.

While the hike up there isn't anything to brag about, just your typical Colorado pine tree forest with half of them dead or decaying from the pine beetles. It's the view at the top that makes this steep climb worth it! My hubby & I weren't use to the altitude yet & it took us 5 hours to do the entire trail & get back to the trailhead. The last part of the trail requires scrambling up some rocks, which we were able to do pretty easily even with our 2 dogs.

This hike is moderate to intermediate. It's a climb with excellent views from the top. The trail is dog friendly.

Lily Lake is not as popular as Bear Lake and Sprague Lake but it is certainly worth the trip. Lily Lake is a few minutes south of Estes Park. The parking lot is right along highway 7. The 1/2 mile trail around the lake is beautiful, easy and wheel chair accessible. You can see the mountain reflections in the water early in the morning and late afternoon. See Ducks and Chipmunks.

We think the best way to see Lily Lake is by ranger-led tour. The ranger will tell you about the trees, flowers, muskrats, etc. When we visited, we even saw a moose in the lake. Moose are just beginning to venture into the east side of the park, most are over on the west side. So, if you want to see a moose on the east side, Lily Lake is a good bet. If you’re planning a trip in the summer, go early in the day to find parking or, best of all, take the free shuttle. The lake itself is downright pastoral. When we went, the path was a bouquet of wildflowers. It's an easy walk around the lake. We’ll never forget lovely Lily Lake.

This is probably our favorite place to visit near Estes Park. It is rarely busy. We like to stroll out past the end of the lake & view the vistas from the walking path. The hummingbirds are plentiful in the summer. It is just a nice place to visit for a quiet & easy walk in nature.

This is a ritual walk for us after we've eaten at the Bald Pate Inn where you come away feeling so full. The walk around Lily Lake can be stepped in flip flops or hiking shoes. Either works. It was one of my Dad's favorites because even though he was blind, he could make it successfully around the lake-- enjoying the lovely mountain atmosphere, squeaking of the chipmunks, and soft talking of the many families who spend a few moment in this gorgeous spot.This year we sighted a couple getting married there. What memories they will have!

My fiance proposed to me at Lily Lake, and it couldn't have been more romantic. The spot he chose was so beautiful, with a view of the lake from a hill. It will always have a special place in my heart.

Best feature is that it can be a lovely, quick jaunt or a challenging mountainous climb. Every where you turn is a Kodak moment. Next time we'll bring a picnic. Gets VERY crowded on weekends.

Great little side trip from RMNP, especially for those traveling with young children (3-8). Not a lot of hill climbs and stroller accessible. Would be a great visit for those needing wheelchair accessibility too. Lots of small wildlife like squirrels, birds, and chipmunks can be seen scampering around. Great place for an afternoon picnic. The drive from RMNP is fairly unique and scenic too.