Traction is highly recommended (microspikes or snowshoes). It has a little bit of everything- scrambling up the side of a waterfall, epic Colorado glacial lakes, and fresh mountain air. From here, the trail gets steep and travels through Timberline Falls. The National Park is absolutely gorgeous and worth visiting. You’ll be able to see Loch Vale far off in the distance and the views here are stunning. If you are afraid of heights this will be where you either turn around or conquer your fears. 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. The space between the lakes is dotted with ponds, meadows and cascading streams, and worth exploring if time permits. Keep in mind, once this parking lot is full, you’ll need to either park nearly a half mile down the road (adding a total of one mile to your journey) or you’ll have to take the park shuttle. 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. A little ways past The Loch (about a mile or so) you’ll start trending uphill. No matter the season, Rocky Mountain National Park never fails when it comes to epic vista views. The kicker- you have to climb it! Length 8.7 miElevation gain 1883 ftRoute type Out & back Therefore, the best time to do the Sky Pond hike is between mid-June through mid-October. 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. 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. I dream of going back to Rocky Mountain National Park. Keep in mind, this also coincides with the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, so expect crowds on this trail. This packing list includes separate checklists for camping, hiking, backpacking, winter travel, and trip details. Next you’ll find yourself standing below another waterfall- this one roughly 100 feet high (pictured above on the right). Sky Pond is about 4.5 miles from the trailhead and sits surrounded by cliffs at about 10,900 feet. When we went it was cold and windy! Once you make it to the lake it is truly an accomplished feeling rewarded with beautiful, glacial blue water. The end of the trail leading up to Sky Pond is often impassible from November through early June. We think it's one of the best hikes in the USA. The hike to Sky Pond begins from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, which is located on Bear Lake Road. You can continue to enjoy the park after your hike. Start early (before 6am) for the most solitude. To the north the spires of Sharkstooth, Petit Grepon, and the Saber dominate the sky. 2 waterfalls and 3 lakes. Head toward the Bear Lake Trailhead and pull out at the Glacier Gorge Parking Lot. The water flow at the waterfalls wasn’t as strong, though. There is a lot of uphill climbing and an elevation gain of over 1,800 feet. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. The Sky Pond Trail is a difficult out-and-back trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. Climbers are often seen (or heard) on Petit. I’ve got you covered with these local resources. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. You can take one of two trailheads to reach Sky Pond. Check your inbox for instructions on your FREE Colorado packing list. 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 The avid hikers will continue on to Sky Pond so you’re likely to lose a lot of the crowd after this point. Pass the Loch on the north (don’t forget to stop for photos). Get the FREE Colorado trip planning checklist and get the inside scoop on hiking, camping, climbing, and more in the great Centennial State. A lot of hikers stop here because you can’t see beyond, but don’t! 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 highly recommend exploring out onto the little peninsula for a closer, unobstructed view of the lake. Depending on what time of year it is you will be scrambling in some water. Expect to use your hands in a few spots where the rocks are slick. This looks like an awesome trip and a wonderful hike. Sky Pond is … Note that most trails are not named, but there are signs at intersections - keep heading to Sky Pond. 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