It’s not uncommon to see climbers using this trail (I used it when I climbed the Petit Grepon). The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Sky Pond: One of the Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain NP; Best Things to do in Canyonlands: Island in the Sky District; Hike the Blahnúkúr Brennisteinsalda Loop, Landmannalaugar, Iceland; Kjeragbolten: Our Favorite Hike in Norway This hike is absolutely beautiful! You’ll be able to see Loch Vale far off in the distance and the views here are stunning. Make sure to get a reservation for RMNP and try to go as early as possible to avoid large lines, crowds, and the heat It has a little bit of everything- scrambling up the side of a waterfall, epic Colorado glacial lakes, and fresh mountain air. Stay organized with this easy-to-use hiking planner and checklist for your next hike. Expect it to be packed during the summer months. Well, the side of it any ways. The rocks are extraordinarily slick from water and hikers so take your time. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to explore virtually every hiking area in the State. Make your way back the way you came to complete this bucket list Colorado hike. Roughly 2 miles later you’ll find yourself hiking around Loch Vale (photo above on the left), the first lake of three on this hike. Then there isn’t really a set trail to Sky Pond, but just head past Lake of Glass along the right side and you’ll start to see somewhat of a trail. Note that most trails are not named, but there are signs at intersections - keep heading to Sky Pond. The good news is that all trails in Rocky Mountain National Park are well maintained and marked. First, the only way in and out is via the Glacier Gorge Trail. I’m so grateful that he did! You’ll want to stick to the far right of Timberline Falls and scramble up the rocks. Local tip: Hiking is popular this year, expect to see a full parking lot on weekends by 5:30 am. Sitting at 10,900 feet you’ll find Sky Pond! Most people hike to just see the falls then turn around. As one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll want to enjoy this gem early in the morning to beat the crowds. Mosquitoes seem to be fairly active at Sky Pond. This uber-iconic challenging hike isn’t just one of the best hikes near Estes Park, but it’s one of the top national park hikes too. I can see why this hike is so popular, it was amazing every step of the way. It’s a long slow uphill hike so be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and of course layers. The kicker- you have to climb it! The round-trip hike to Sky Pond is 10 miles and it begins at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. Although the trail is difficult, it’s certainly managable for the avid hiker. To get to the trailhead, you will drive Bear Lake Road almost to the very end. We knew the parking lot was small from our last trip so we arrived early (at around 9:30am) and were able to snag one of the last remaining spots. I will pin this just in case I ever decide to tear myself away from beach destinations to do a hike! As a local Coloradan and full-time freelance writer, I know quite a bit about hiking throughout Colorado. Charlie’s Bunion- Smoky Mountain National Park, When to Hike Rocky Mountain National Park, Utah Canyoneering Tour Near Zion National Park, Hike to Kendrick Peak Lookout in Flagstaff, AZ, Know the Shuttle times and route beforehand. The trailhead is at Glacier Gorge near Bear Lake, one of the most popular so arrive early or use the shuttle. There is a lot of uphill climbing and an elevation gain of over 1,800 feet. This hike is also a great choice because you don’t have to do the entire trail to get jaw dropping views. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Hike Profiles for Rocky Mountain National Park and Surrounding Areas: Sky Pond The hike to Sky Pond passes several lakes and waterfalls as it leads through Loch Vale to a shelf below Taylor Glacier and Taylor Peak. Sit down for a while and enjoy the view. You’ll see the mighty peaks in the distance, this is your destination. The hike to Sky Pond starts near Bear Lake. In this guide we’ll cover: Before you hit the trail, it’s important to be prepared. At about .8 miles you’ll hike upon Alberta Falls, a 30 foot waterfall that pours into Glacier Creek below. Continue another 0.7 miles until you reach Sky Pond, a beautiful, tranquil lake nestled amongst jagged granite spires. Sky Pond is rated as a difficult hike. Here are a few notable options: There’s nothing quite like a post-hike meal. Head toward the Bear Lake Trailhead and pull out at the Glacier Gorge Parking Lot. The hike to Sky Pond begins from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, which is located on Bear Lake Road. The water flow at the waterfalls wasn’t as strong, though. Working remotely has changed my life and allowed me to experience the places I've been dreaming of. Sky Pond sits in a cirque of mountains. She'd rather be dirty than done up. This hike did that for me. The crowds dwindle quite a bit in winter (though this is still highly trafficked), and the experience is entirely different during winter months. There are a few things to know about visiting Sky Pond Colorado. Remember that you’ve climbed roughly 1,780 feet in elevation so it will be cooler at the top. Colorado weather can really change any second, especially in … Have I convinced you yet? In September my friends and I didn’t experience as much flowing water as ice- so be careful! If you only have time for one hike within the Rocky Mountain National Park, I HIGHLY suggest hiking to Sky Pond. Make your way along the Glacier Gorge Trail for several miles, passing a few marked junctions. Due to the extreme popularity of the Bear Lake Road area you may want to consider using the free park shuttle to access the trailhead during peak tourist season. You’ll be wowed by the amazing scenery along this world-class hiking trail. Get the FREE Colorado trip planning checklist and get the inside scoop on hiking, camping, climbing, and more in the great Centennial State. Of course to hike other trails, but when I visit again I’ll be sure to hike to Sky Pond a second time. Hiking Sky Pond in Winter This is a fantastic winter hiking option. It has a little bit of everything- scrambling up the side of a waterfall, epic Colorado glacial lakes, and fresh mountain air. Included are The Loch and Glass Lake. Length 8.7 miElevation gain 1883 ftRoute type Out & back The hike to Sky Pond is one of the most famous and best rated hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Sky Pond is a 9.5-mile hike that gains 1,837 feet in elevation. I’ve listed them in order below! For more, see the Fox in the Forest Privacy Policy. Thank you for sharing. Get a beautiful glimpse of Rocky Mountain National Park on this fun, yet challenging hike that takes you by stunning lakes and to a waterfall and two beautiful hidden lakes! Complete with planning info, hiking packing list, emergency contact and more! Explore the outdoors in Colorado like a local, not a tourist. Our advice is to arrive early so that you can snatch a coveted parking spot at this lot because it does tend to fill up quickly. To reach the alpine lakes, Sky Pond and Lake of Glass, you must climb up the side of the falls, which lies at the 4 mile mark. This is worth stopping for and exploring around! Sky Pond is … The end of the trail leading up to Sky Pond is often impassible from November through early June. Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting a National Park within the U.S. more than 2x a year it would be worth your money to purchase the annual pass. You can easily add on in extension to this hike to see Mills Lake or Andrews Glacier. There are several distinct destinations along the way that would be good turn around points if you’re short on time, making it the perfect day hike. I hope you get to! Start early (before 6am) for the most solitude. It is up to you to decide what you want to put up with. Check out the following details about the Sky Pond trail that you’ll need to know: Local Tip: For the 2020 year, you need to make advanced reservations to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. I visit Rocky Mountain National Park several times a year and know quite a bit about hiking to Sky Pond. “The Loch” is the perfect place to post up for a break and hangout while having some snacks. The space between the lakes is dotted with ponds, meadows and cascading streams, and worth exploring if time permits. To get to the trailhead, drive west on Hwy 34 out of Loveland for 30 … Therefore, the best time to do the Sky Pond hike is between mid-June through mid-October. We hope the guide helps you on your hikes and adventures. The trail is 9.5 miles long and is an out-and-back type trail, meaning you will hike back out the same way you hike in. Note: This website participates in affiliate marketing. Be sure to take it all in- it is a peaceful start! Headlamp hiking for the first hour of the trail; This hike can be started from two different trail heads in the park, Bear Lake Trailhead or Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead. But before you go, keep these quick Colorado hiking tips in mind: There are plenty of awesome things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Sky Pond Trail is a difficult out-and-back trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. September offered cooler temperatures, a slight breeze at the lower elevations, and sunny skies. Freelance Writing, Travel, and Life Skills. While you're waiting why not follow me on socials? Denver, CO ItineraryLookout Mountain at Windy Saddle ParkTouring Cities on a Budget- 10 Ways to Save. Get organized with local advice on what to pack for your awesome Colorado adventure. The varied views, including of several alpine lakes, and the vistas you see on this trail showcase some of the best that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. It’s less than a half mile to Sky Pond and it’s pretty incredible too. The trail - rugged and indistinguishable at times - continues up the west side of Glass Lake through krummholz and talus to Sky Pond (4.5 miles : 10,887'). Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail is a 8.5 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Estes Park, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Trail Review: Rating: Moderate Distance (Round trip): 9.2 miles Elevation Gain: 1,660 ft. Beginning at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, Sky Pond is the final stop on the trail which passes Alberta Falls, Loch Vale, Timberline Falls, and Lake of Glass. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips and is best used from May until September. If the lot is full, there are other nearby lots where you can park and start your hike from or snag a shuttle from. Bear Lake to Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail is a 8.7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Estes Park, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The outstanding scenery and varied environments along this trail make it a very popular trail for day hikers. The avid hikers will continue on to Sky Pond so you’re likely to lose a lot of the crowd after this point. Sky Pond and Lake of Glass hike Map By continuing to use this website, you consent to the use of cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy. This packing list includes separate checklists for camping, hiking, backpacking, winter travel, and trip details. Fill out your email below for your exclusive hiking freebie, access to bonus hiking tips, and insider knowledge on the best hiking destination around the world. The best trail to hike between June to September is Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail that offers many activities. The hike to Sky Pond will satisfy your wanderlust for the mountains all in one day. Good, let’s begin. I love hearing from my community about all the badass adventures. Here are a few tips from the hike I want to share that will make your day more enjoyable! Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park Situated above Timberline Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park are two spectacular lakes. You’re not quite there yet! I can tell just from your pictures that this hike is scenic! This trail goes by Alberta Falls, The Loch, Timberline Falls, and Lake of Glass. The large tooth-like formation towards the north west corner of the pond is called Sharkstooth. At 4.6 miles into the trail, THIS is Sky Pond. The parking lot for the trailhead is on Bear Lake Road but is small and can fill up fast. These are amazing pictures! Sky Pond is 4.9 mi/7.9 km from the Glacier Gorge trailhead with an elevation gain of 1650 ft/503 m. The trail passes by Alberta Falls and the Loch before climbing up Timberline Line to reach the Lake... Read all 98reviews I sure hope you get to make it to the US and explore this park! best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, advanced reservations to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, The Complete Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park Like a Local, 21 Incredible Road Trip Stops in Colorado You Can’t Miss, 10 of the Most Scenic Backpacking Loops in Colorado, Practical information about the Sky Pond Trail, Additional Rocky Mountain National Park trip planning resources, Drive Trail Ridge Road or the Peak-to-Peak Highway, one of the, Spend time shopping and dining in Estes Park, Smokin’ Daves BBQ and Brew (BBQ and beer), Notchtop Bakery and Cafe (brunch, breakfast, coffee). This hike is also a great choice because you don’t have to do the entire trail to get jaw dropping views. Turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead and parking lot or set up camp at one of the three lakes. Either way, don’t forget to turn around and look behind you. Sky Pond is known for its shark tooth appearing rocks that surround one side of it. You’ll literally be hiking up a gentle waterfall. Expect to use your hands in a few spots where the rocks are slick. As one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado, it’s well worth a visit. Heading north (towards the trail) you’ll see the Petit Grepon, the Saber, and other famous spires. If you are afraid of heights this will be where you either turn around or conquer your fears. It all comes down to what you prefer! The best approach is to head for a relatively dry chute of the waterfall, on the right of the main flow. You can continue to enjoy the park after your hike. Check your inbox for instructions on your FREE hiking checklist. Hiked with my brother and friend to Sky Pond from the Bear Lake Trailhead on September 2, 2017. The hike to Sky Pond will satisfy your wanderlust for the mountains all in one day. The remaining trail to Sky Pond was quite tricky, as in we lost the trail and climbed over a bunch of rocks until we found it again.