The Loch — Attraction in Four Corners States

I recently had the pleasure of hiking to The Loch in Colorado, and I am still in awe of the breathtaking experience. This trail is an absolute gem, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

From the moment I set foot on the trail, I was surrounded by the beauty of nature. The towering pine trees, the melodious songs of the birds, and the crisp mountain air created the perfect ambiance for an outdoor adventure. The well-maintained trail made the hike accessible to hikers of all skill levels, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the stunning scenery.

As I continued along the path, I was captivated by the diverse landscapes. The trail took me through lush forests, open meadows, and rocky terrains, providing a variety of picturesque views. The anticipation grew with every step as I approached The Loch, a pristine alpine lake nestled amidst the mountains. The sight of the clear, turquoise water reflecting the surrounding peaks was absolutely mesmerizing.

The Loch itself is a true marvel of nature. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and vibrant wildflowers, it's a serene oasis that invites you to relax and savor the moment. I took some time to sit by the water's edge, absorbing the tranquility and appreciating the natural beauty that surrounded me. It was a perfect spot for a picnic, and I enjoyed my lunch with a view that words cannot do justice.

The wildlife along the trail was another highlight of the hike. I encountered various birds, squirrels, and even glimpsed a deer in the distance. It added an element of excitement, reminding me of the wonders of the wilderness.

I would like to commend the park authorities for the excellent trail maintenance and signage. I felt safe and well-informed throughout the hike, thanks to their efforts. Additionally, the fellow hikers I met on the trail were friendly and respectful, enhancing the overall experience.

In summary, hiking to The Loch in Colorado was a truly magical experience. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this trail has something for everyone. I encourage anyone visiting Colorado to embark on this adventure. It's a five-star experience that will leave you with memories to cherish...

This review pertains to mid-June 2025.

The Loch is a breathtaking, crystal-clear alpine lake that is a hiking destination inside Rocky Mountain National Park. The lake is nestled amidst rugged peaks, including the towering Taylor Peak (13,153 feet) and Thatchtop Mountain. Fed by glacial runoff, the Loch is a serene highlight about ~2.7 miles along the trail from Glacier Gorge Trailhead. If you choose to venture beyond the Loch, the next lakes are 'The Lake of Glass' and 'Sky Pond'.

Framed by dramatic granite cliffs and vibrant wildflowers, a photo of The Loch would look perfect framed on a postcard.

Trail Details: I hiked to The Loch on June 18, 2025, via the most direct route from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead (9,180 feet). The trail is 2.7 miles one-way (5.4 miles round trip) with approximately 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Starting at the trailhead, you’ll pass the scenic Alberta Falls just 0.8 miles in, then ascend through fragrant pine forests and rocky switchbacks. The trail is definitely challenging, with uneven terrain and some steeper climbs including narrow switch-backs, but it’s manageable for hikers with reasonable fitness.

In mid-June, you can expect mostly clear trails, although there may still be some patches of snow and ice. I recommend bringing microspikes and trekking poles for enhanced stability, especially on the icy sections.

The tranquil waters of the Loch left me in awe, perfectly reflecting the jagged peaks and vibrant sky above. The serene beauty of this hidden lake made the journey feel worthwhile. In my opinion, the Loch is definitely a hike worth taking in Rocky Mountain...

This is one of my favorite lakes in RMNP. At 0.8 miles up from the junction it is a bit of a hike up. There are a few switch backs, but nothing too rough. The trail runs along a creek, so you have some nice spots to stop along the way. Definitely appreciated the beautiful view once you got a little farther into the lake area. It's shaped like a hook or question mark, so the most picturesque park of the lake is once you get past the end. There are places to take pictures of you go left or right around the lake. I went left to the side the gets you right in front of the water and...