Dream Lake

Dream Lake is one of the most popular alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, sitting along the Bear Lake corridor trail in Larimer County near Estes Park. The 1.1-mile hike from the Bear Lake trailhead climbs steadily through steps and switchbacks before revealing a pristine mountain lake backed by dramatic snow-capped peaks and sheer rock walls. The crystal-clear water and towering mountain backdrop have made Dream Lake one of the most photographed spots in all of Colorado.

The hike to Dream Lake is rated moderate, primarily because of the elevation gain and high-altitude conditions rather than technical difficulty. Most visitors reach the lake in 40 minutes to an hour, depending on fitness level and how many photo stops they take along the way. The trail passes Nymph Lake first before continuing uphill to Dream Lake, and ambitious hikers can continue beyond Dream Lake to Emerald Lake, where the terrain becomes more challenging. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended, and during winter months the trail requires snowshoes or microspikes for safe passage on icy sections. The trail is family-friendly and accessible to hikers of varying experience levels, though the altitude will challenge those not acclimated.

Dream Lake sits inside Rocky Mountain National Park, which means visitors need both a National Park Pass and a timed entry reservation during peak season. The Bear Lake trailhead parking lot fills early, though some spots open up throughout the day as visitors leave. A park-and-ride shuttle bus system provides an alternative when lots are posted as full. The lake itself is large enough that visitors can spread out along the shoreline and find quieter spots away from the main trail arrival point. Trout are visible in the clear water, and the surrounding landscape shifts beautifully with the seasons, from snowmelt streams in June to golden aspen color in mid-October.

Wildlife along the trail includes chipmunks that have become bold around hikers, though feeding them is prohibited. The peaceful silence at the lake, broken only by other hikers on the trail, makes Dream Lake a place that consistently exceeds expectations. Visitors universally report that photos cannot capture the true scale and beauty of the setting, making it a must-visit destination within Rocky Mountain National Park.