Colorado · Hiking · Near Estes Park

Thunder Lake Trail

8.9 mi
round trip
909 ft
climb
10,665 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Jun, Sep
best months

Is Thunder Lake Trail open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Rocky Mountain National Park. It doesn't name Thunder Lake Trail, so check the source for the area it covers.

  • Prescribed Fire Operations are Underway near Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

    Park closure covering Rocky Mountain National Park · NPS · Rocky Mountain National Park

As of · Source: NPS · Rocky Mountain National Park. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Thunder Lake Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado. The trail offers hikers the opportunity to experience Colorado's natural landscape on a moderate-length route suitable for various skill levels. The out-and-back format means hikers will travel to a destination point and return via the same route, covering a total distance of 4.5 miles round trip. This trail structure provides flexibility for hikers to adjust their experience by turning back at any point along the way. The trail is situated in Colorado's scenic terrain, making it accessible for day hikes. The out-and-back design eliminates navigation concerns about finding alternate routes, allowing hikers to focus on enjoying the natural surroundings and their pace. Thunder Lake Trail is ideal for those seeking a straightforward hiking experience in Colorado without the complexity of loop trails or multiple route options. The moderate distance makes it manageable for most hikers looking to spend a few hours on the trail.

Around this trail

Add any of these when you start a trip
  • Sleep close

    Thunder Lake Stock Campsite

    Campground

    Campground · < 0.1 mi from the trail
  • Eat after

    Rock Creek Tavern and Pizzeria

    Restaurant

    Open after 6

Places © OpenStreetMap contributors · Photos: Matt Golon, CC BY-SA 3.0 (commons)

More in Estes Park

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.

Map and trail data © OpenStreetMap contributors