Lily Lake
A serene mountain lake near Estes Park, offering easy trails, stunning reflections, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for families and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & wildflowers
Lily Lake
Best Time
Calm waters & wildflowers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain lake near Estes Park, offering easy trails, stunning reflections, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for families and photographers.
"A peaceful gem just outside Estes Park! Lily Lake is a beautiful and accessible spot, perfect for a relaxing walk."
🎯 Timed Entry Permit Needed
Secure your timed entry permit online for 9 AM-2 PM access to Lily Lake, even though it's outside RMNP.
👟 Easy Trail, Casual Shoes OK
The main loop is flat and easy, suitable for tennis shoes. Check conditions for other trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirror Lake Reflections
Lily Lake
Witness breathtaking, mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains on the calm surface of Lily Lake.
Wildflower Displays
Surrounding Trails
In summer, the trails around Lily Lake burst with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque and colorful landscape.
Family-Friendly Loop
Lily Lake Loop Trail
An easy, flat 0.8-mile loop perfect for all ages, offering stunning views without strenuous effort.
Wildlife Sightings
Lily Lake
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like moose, elk, ducks, and butterflies, especially during morning or evening hours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry & Parking
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Timed Entry Permit Needed
Secure your timed entry permit online for 9 AM-2 PM access to Lily Lake, even though it's outside RMNP.
👟 Easy Trail, Casual Shoes OK
The main loop is flat and easy, suitable for tennis shoes. Check conditions for other trails.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The lake often acts as a mirror, offering stunning reflections. Great for photography!
🦋 Wildlife Encounters
Look for moose, elk, and butterflies, especially in the early morning. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Timed Entry Permit Needed
Secure your timed entry permit online for 9 AM-2 PM access to Lily Lake, even though it's outside RMNP.
👟 Easy Trail, Casual Shoes OK
The main loop is flat and easy, suitable for tennis shoes. Check conditions for other trails.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The lake often acts as a mirror, offering stunning reflections. Great for photography!
🦋 Wildlife Encounters
Look for moose, elk, and butterflies, especially in the early morning. +1
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Bring a picnic to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful mountain views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lily Lake's stunning beauty, easy accessibility, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit near Estes Park. Many highlight its suitability for families and photographers, though some note that parking can be challenging during peak times and that swimming is not allowed.
"This was a really enjoyable park! I highly recommend that you make this a stop if you are in the area. The drive is easy and the walk is absolutely gorgeous. The water was down when we were there, but I imagine if it’s up to normal levels. It is even more beautiful. I particularly liked how easy and approachable this trail was for little kids. There are additional trails that offer hikers some additional challenges if they want to seek them out. This is an excellent trail also for people who want to take a stroll. I wouldn’t recommend taking a stroller on these paths, but it is probably possible. Overall, I highly recommend this. Five stars!"
Jason Christenson
"This is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. If you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, this is the perfect place to stop on your way in or out. The lake is stunning, and there’s about a 1.2-mile path around it. There are also several nice trails that lead up to the rocks around the lake. Parking is available."
Eddie Hurt
"A peaceful gem just outside Estes Park!
Lily Lake is a beautiful and accessible spot, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic with breathtaking views of the Rockies. The loop trail around the lake is flat and easy — great for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a short nature break.
The scenery is stunning, with mirror-like reflections on the lake, wildflowers in summer, and often some wildlife sightings (we saw ducks and Chipmunks!). There are benches along the way to sit and soak in the views.
Highly recommend stopping here if you’re exploring Rocky Mountain National Park or nearby. It’s less crowded than other spots and just as magical."
Raphaël Bolze
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lily Lake is located just south of Estes Park, Colorado. You can drive there via Lily Lake Road. It's a short and scenic drive, often taking less than 15 minutes from the town center. +1
While Lily Lake is situated within the broader Rocky Mountain National Park area, it is accessible without passing through a main RMNP entrance station. However, a timed entry permit is still required during specific hours. 
From Estes Park, head south on CO-7 S. Turn right onto Lily Lake Road. The lake and parking area will be on your left.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation service to Lily Lake. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the area.
Yes, Lily Lake is accessible even when Trail Ridge Road is closed, as it's located on the southern side of Estes Park and not directly on Trail Ridge Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a timed entry permit is required to access Lily Lake between 9 AM and 2 PM, even though it's outside the main RMNP entrance station.
Timed entry permits for Lily Lake can typically be obtained through the Rocky Mountain National Park's reservation system online. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Lily Lake is generally accessible year-round, but the timed entry permit requirement is in effect from 9 AM to 2 PM. Outside these hours, access may be open without a permit, but it's best to check current RMNP regulations.
While Lily Lake itself is accessible without paying a traditional RMNP entrance fee, the timed entry permit system may involve a reservation fee. Check the official RMNP website for the most up-to-date information on fees.
If you arrive during the timed entry window (9 AM-2 PM) without a permit, you may be denied entry or asked to wait until a permit becomes available or the window closes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail is an easy, flat 0.8-mile loop around the lake, perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are also additional, more challenging trails for those seeking more adventure.
Absolutely! The easy loop trail is very family-friendly, and many find it suitable for strollers, though some suggest caution. It's a great spot for kids to explore.
Swimming is generally not permitted in Lily Lake to preserve its natural state and protect wildlife. It's primarily a spot for scenic walks and enjoying the views.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Lily Lake parking area, providing convenience for visitors.
Visitors often report seeing moose, elk, ducks, chipmunks, and various birds. Keep a safe distance and enjoy observing them in their natural habitat. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Lily Lake. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for a picnic.
Estes Park, located just a short drive away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores to stock up on picnic supplies or enjoy a meal.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Lily Lake. There are often benches and scenic spots perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature.
Pack essentials like a blanket, food, drinks, trash bags to pack out everything, and perhaps insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
While there aren't designated picnic areas with tables, the entire perimeter of the lake offers beautiful spots to lay out a blanket or sit on benches for a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, with calm waters creating stunning reflections. Sunsets can also be spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions and sharp reflection shots.
The entire loop offers beautiful vantage points. Look for areas with clear reflections and interesting foreground elements like wildflowers or rocks.
Drone usage is typically restricted within Rocky Mountain National Park and its surrounding areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current regulations before flying.
The reflections of the mountains, wildflowers in bloom, wildlife, and the serene lake itself are the most popular subjects for photographers. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic place for kids to experience nature without a strenuous hike. You can often spot wildlife like ducks and chipmunks, adding to the excitement. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed day surrounded by beautiful scenery. Remember to secure a timed entry permit for your visit between 9 AM and 2 PM. Arriving early can help you snag a parking spot. The accessibility and natural beauty make it a stress-free outing for parents and a memorable adventure for children.
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Picnickers
+1 It's perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without a demanding hike. Bring a blanket and some snacks to fully embrace the serene atmosphere. The benches along the path provide comfortable spots to rest and soak in the views. It's a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Estes Park area.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
The vibrant wildflowers in summer and the potential for wildlife sightings add further appeal. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. The easy access and diverse subjects – from grand mountain vistas to delicate flora and fauna – make it a rewarding location for capturing the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Lily Lake
+1For those seeking a bit more challenge, Lily Lake serves as a trailhead for several other hiking routes. These trails can lead you up into the hills surrounding the lake, offering different perspectives and more strenuous climbs. Some trails connect to the larger network within the broader RMNP area, allowing for longer excursions. Always be prepared with appropriate gear and water if venturing onto these more demanding paths.
When exploring beyond the main loop, pay attention to trail markers and consider your fitness level. The transition from the easy lake loop to steeper terrain can be quite noticeable. Redditors often mention that while the loop is simple, the surrounding trails offer a good workout and rewarding views for those willing to put in the effort.
Wildlife Encounters at Lily Lake
Beyond moose, you might also spot elk, particularly in the meadows surrounding the lake. Smaller creatures like chipmunks and various bird species, including ducks on the water, are common. The presence of butterflies, especially during the summer wildflower season, adds to the natural charm of the area.
To increase your chances of seeing wildlife, consider visiting during the quieter hours of the day. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most active times for animals. Bringing binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to observe these creatures from a safe distance without disturbing them.
Photography Opportunities
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The soft, warm light at these times enhances the colors and textures of the landscape. The vibrant wildflowers that bloom in the summer also provide excellent foreground interest for your shots.
When visiting, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive mountain vistas and a tripod for stable shots, especially in low light conditions or to emphasize the reflections. Don't forget to look for wildlife; a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing animals from a distance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit