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Lily Lake: A Tranquil Gem in Rocky Mountain National Park

Discover serene beauty and accessible trails at Lily Lake, a scenic escape near Estes Park with stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife.

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Lily Lake, nestled just south of Estes Park, offers a serene escape with stunning mountain views and an accessible trail. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, it's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

A brief summary to Lily Lake

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (May-October), as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and bird watching opportunities.
  • Consider visiting in the early morning or early evening for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Remember that a park pass or timed entry ticket may be required to enter the area, depending on the time of year and entry time.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas around the lake.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Estes Park, drive south on Colorado Highway 7 for approximately 6.3 miles. Lily Lake is located on the east side of the highway. Look for the Lily Lake parking area on the right. Overflow parking is available across the highway at the Twin Sisters Trailhead. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. There are no fees for parking.

  • Public Transportation

    Take the free Estes Park Shuttle to the Estes Park Visitor Center. From there, transfer to the free Rocky Mountain National Park Hiker Shuttle to the Park & Ride Transit Hub on Bear Lake Road. Unfortunately, there is currently no direct shuttle from the Park & Ride to Lily Lake. From the Estes Park Visitor Center, you can also use a ride service like Estes Park Ride Service, which starts at $5 per person with a $15 minimum. Another option is the Estes Park Shuttle, with one-way fares starting at $75.

Unlock the Best of Lily Lake

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Discover more about Lily Lake

Lily Lake, located a short drive from Estes Park, is a picturesque alpine lake offering an accessible and tranquil experience for visitors of all abilities. Situated just outside the main boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park, Lily Lake provides stunning views of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and Twin Sisters peaks. The Lily Lake Loop Trail is an easy, 0.8-mile path that encircles the lake and nearby wetlands, making it perfect for families, strollers, and wheelchairs. The trail is mostly flat with minimal elevation gain, ensuring a comfortable walk for everyone. For those seeking a bit more challenge, the Lily Ridge Trail offers a short climb with rewarding views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Lily Lake is also a prime location for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Visitors may spot deer, elk, moose, and various bird species in their natural habitat. The lake is stocked with greenback cutthroat trout, adding to the area's ecological significance. Fishing is permitted on a catch-and-release basis. In 1992, the Lily Lake area was acquired by Rocky Mountain National Park, and five years later, the accessible trail was constructed with funding from the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Today, Lily Lake remains a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in a beautiful natural setting.

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