With a name suggesting it is worthy of a place in the stunning Scottish Highlands, this lake in the Rocky Mountains doesn’t disappoint.
Overlooked by impressive mountains and leafy woodland, The Loch is a picturesque water basin with clear water and stunning views. Make a 6-mile (10-kilometer) round-trip hike following Loch Vail Trail, on which you’ll pass various waterfalls and mountains. Arrive at the lake and set down a blanket on the rocky or grassy areas surrounding the lake.
Get started along Glacier Gorge Trail, noticing some of the beautiful natural highlights adorning it. Alberta Falls is one of the region’s top attractions, a waterfall dropping about 30 feet (9 meters) over a series of rocks. Hear about how the set of cascades took its name from an early settler and one of the first visitors to the national park, Alberta Sprague.
Choose the path on the right at North Longs Peak Trail and walk to Mills Junction. Continue along the trail at this point. The northern path heads to Lake Haiyaha and the southern leads to Black Lake and Mills Lake in this picturesque part of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Hike along Loch Vale Trail, turning corners and climbing higher. Admire the views of the impressive gorge and spot Icy Brook making its way ahead to The Loch and other lakes.
Note that loch is the Scottish name for a lake. The full title for this water basin is The Loch Vale. The shoreline has ample green space, where you can sit with your family to rest or have a picnic.
The Loch lies between East Glacier Knob and The Sharkstooth mountain in the southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. It connects with Lake of Glass and Sky Pond via Loch Vale Trail paralleling Icy Brook. From the nearby town of Estes Park, drive southwest for 12 miles (19 kilometers) to get to Glacier Gorge Trailhead in roughly half an hour. Consider taking the free shuttle within the park to avoid parking issues.
Explore the area to see other nearby landmarks, including Otis Peak, Hallett Peak and Storm Peak.
