I went to Rocky Mountain National Park on a long solo road trip through Colorado in the summer of 2018 and had an absolute blast. The Rockies have been a destination for me for a long time and to finally be able to cruise through them was quite amazing! I checked out a lot of places throughout the park and although it was a rainy day I made the best of it that I could.
One of the places I explored was a little pull out on the main road that goes through the National Park and it was called Lake Irene. Its a short little hike that meanders through the trees, and next to some water ways, small creeks and a small lake.
The trail headed to the lake is mostly dirt, but level and an easy walk. It will take only 5-10 minutes together to get back to the lake views.
Coming from Arizona landscapes where it is mostly a dry desert, granted we do have plenty of forested and green areas, nothing in Arizona is quite like this place. The greenery was welcoming to my eyes and the rain conditions make the green pop even more.
As you continue on the walk there are a few small creek crossings that you cross over small little bridges.
As you get closer to the lake you can see glimpses of it through the trees, and forest surrounding you.
If you continue on the path near the lake, you can make it to another beautiful outlook on a valley below. The trail is pretty maintained the whole way, and there are some spots to sit and snack, or take a break and enjoy the beauty surrounding you.
At the end of the trail you can see the overlook to the green valley in the distance. From here you can turn around and go back to the parking area the way you came, or you can take the off shoot trail and go around the other side of the lake to see it from a different view.
After taking some photos, and a break to look around, I headed back to the car, the rain was off and on and just a slight drizzle for most of my hike.
If you are ever traveling through Rocky Mountain National Park, be sure to take the time to stop and walk this short trail to see the beautiful Lake Irene. It is totally worth it, rain or shine. Have fun and enjoy!
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein
Love the pic of the wildflowers with the lake and mountain in the background! What type of lens did you use?
Thank you and I am limited to my go pro and iPhone for photos, never have bought a fancy camera yet! Haha