Lily Lake Trail
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
You're sitting at about 8,900 feet — visitors arriving straight from sea level may feel winded even on flat ground. Take it slow if you just drove up from Denver.
Afternoon lightning storms roll in fast during summer months, typically between June and August. If clouds start stacking over the peaks by early afternoon, head back to your car.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
The parking lot fills by 9 AM on summer weekends — arrive before 8 or after 4 PM, or park at the Twin Sisters trailhead just up the road and walk the short connector over.
Walk the loop counterclockwise to get the money shot of Longs Peak reflected in the lake early in your walk, when morning light hits the peaks and the water is still glassy.
Bring a fishing rod — Lily Lake is stocked with greenback cutthroat trout and you can cast right from the shore or the observation pier with a valid Colorado fishing license.
Photos
NPS
