Guide to Conquering Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Quick Facts:

Location: Rocky Mountain National Park

Coordinates: 40.31054246570012, -105.64008966414906

Length: 8.5 MIles

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation Gain: 1,700 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Sky Pond, accessible via the Glacier Gorge Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado, is one of the most spectacular and rewarding hikes in the park. This challenging trail takes you through breathtaking alpine scenery, past cascading waterfalls, and alongside pristine lakes, culminating at the stunning Sky Pond, nestled beneath dramatic, jagged peaks. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking to push your limits, the hike to Sky Pond offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Rockies.

How to Get There:

The trail to Sky Pond begins at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, located within Rocky Mountain National Park. To reach the trailhead, take US-36 west from Estes Park into the park, then follow the signs for Bear Lake Road. Continue on Bear Lake Road for approximately 8 miles until you reach the Glacier Gorge Trailhead parking area. The drive from downtown Estes Park takes about 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains as you approach the trailhead.

Parking Information:

Parking at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead can be a challenge, especially during the peak summer months and on weekends. The lot fills up quickly, often by early morning, so it’s best to arrive as early as possible to secure a spot. If the lot is full, you can park at the Park & Ride located on Bear Lake Road and take the free shuttle to the trailhead. The shuttle runs frequently throughout the day, providing convenient access to the trail without the stress of finding parking. There are restrooms and informational signs at the trailhead, making it a comfortable place to start your hike.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail offers an incredible journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of pine and aspen, with the sound of rushing water from nearby streams accompanying you as you hike. Early on, you’ll pass Alberta Falls, a beautiful 30-foot waterfall that is one of the highlights of the trail and a popular spot for photos.

As you continue, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, leading you past The Loch, a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The reflection of the surrounding mountains in the calm waters of The Loch is truly breathtaking, making it a great place to take a break and soak in the scenery.

Beyond The Loch, the trail becomes more challenging as it ascends towards Timberline Falls. This section of the trail requires some rock scrambling, especially near the falls, where you’ll need to climb up a steep, rocky section alongside the waterfall. This climb can be tricky, especially when wet, but the reward is worth the effort.

After navigating Timberline Falls, you’ll reach Lake of Glass, a stunningly clear lake that sits just below Sky Pond. The final push to Sky Pond is short but steep, and when you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the pond itself, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the jagged peaks of Sharkstooth and Taylor Peak. The pristine waters of Sky Pond and the rugged, remote feel of the area make it a perfect spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of the Rockies.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The hike to Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail is considered challenging, making it suitable for experienced hikers or those with a good level of fitness. The round trip is approximately 9 miles, with an elevation gain of about 1,780 feet. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but the section near Timberline Falls involves scrambling over rocks and can be slippery, especially after rain. Most hikers can complete the round trip in 5 to 7 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the various scenic spots along the way. The combination of distance, elevation gain, and rugged terrain makes this hike a rewarding challenge for those looking to explore the high country.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail or any other trails within Rocky Mountain National Park. This regulation is in place to protect the park’s delicate ecosystems and wildlife. If you’re traveling with a dog, consider exploring nearby dog-friendly trails outside the park, such as those in the Roosevelt National Forest. Always check local regulations before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s important to follow local regulations to help preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensure a safe experience for all visitors. Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the environment, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. As with all outdoor areas, practice “Leave No Trace” principles by carrying out all trash, respecting other hikers, and leaving the landscape as you found it. Additionally, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, as the high-altitude environment of the Rockies can bring sudden storms and temperature drops.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re interested in exploring more of Rocky Mountain National Park after hiking to Sky Pond, there are several other trails nearby that offer different experiences. The Emerald Lake Trail is a shorter, easier hike that takes you to three beautiful alpine lakes—Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake—each offering stunning views and unique landscapes. The Bear Lake Loop is a popular, easy trail that circles Bear Lake and offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, perfect for a leisurely walk. For a more challenging hike, the Hallett Peak Trail provides a strenuous ascent with incredible panoramic views from the top.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the area around Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Trail Ridge Road is a must-see, offering a scenic drive that takes you to the highest continuous paved road in the United States, with breathtaking views of the Rockies. The town of Estes Park itself is a charming destination with shops, restaurants, and the historic Stanley Hotel, famous for its connection to Stephen King’s “The Shining.” For those interested in wildlife, the Rocky Mountain National Park Visitor Centers offer exhibits and information about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife, and are great places to learn more about the area.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike to Sky Pond is during the late spring, summer, and early fall when the trail is free of snow and the weather is generally mild. Summer is particularly beautiful, with blooming wildflowers and clear, sunny skies, while fall offers cooler temperatures and the opportunity to see the changing colors of the leaves. Winter hikes are possible but can be extremely challenging due to snow and icy conditions on the trail. Snowshoes or microspikes may be necessary if you plan to hike in the winter, and be aware that the trail can be much more difficult in winter conditions.