Lake Verna is a stunning high-elevation backcountry lake deep inside Rocky Mountain National Park, situated in Grand County at the far end of the East Inlet Trail. With a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors who have made the demanding trek, Lake Verna consistently earns its reputation as one of the most beautiful and rewarding alpine lake destinations in all of Colorado.
The hike to Lake Verna follows the East Inlet Trail from the Grand Lake side of the park. The first two miles pass through a lush mountain valley with a crystal-clear stream full of small trout, a gentle warm-up before the trail begins its serious climb. Most hikers stop at Lone Pine Lake, roughly the halfway point, but those who push beyond are rewarded with a dramatic change in scenery as the trail ascends through a rocky pass to reach Lake Verna's boulder-lined shore. Plan on a full day for the round trip, or better yet, make it an overnight backpacking trip to truly soak in the setting.
The lake itself is ringed by steep mountain walls and surrounded by the kind of raw alpine terrain that defines the best of Rocky Mountain National Park. Clear water reveals a rocky bottom, and on calm mornings before the wind picks up, the surface becomes a near-perfect mirror. Visitors describe the wind arriving like clockwork around noon and not settling until evening, so early starts pay off both for tranquil views and comfortable hiking.
Fishing opportunities exist for trout in both the lake and the stream along the lower trail. Wildlife is another highlight, with moose and deer sightings reported regularly along the East Inlet corridor. Bring a hammock if you can manage the weight. The flat, forested areas near the shore provide ideal spots to rest after the long climb.
Lake Verna is accessible from roughly late June through early October, depending on snowpack. If hiking in June or July, expect numerous waterfalls and seasonal water features along the route that dry up later in the summer. An early start is strongly recommended. Hikers who find themselves descending after dark face a long trail with limited visibility, and warm layers are essential at elevation even in midsummer. For backpackers and day hikers who want to earn one of the finest alpine views in Rocky Mountain National Park, Lake Verna delivers an experience that visitors call worth every single step.