Lost Lake

For those of us in Colorado who crave a true wilderness experience, where the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, Lost Lake near Estes Park offers an exceptional opportunity. This isn't a drive-up campground with bustling amenities; instead, Lost Lake represents a more authentic, backcountry camping experience, requiring effort and preparation but rewarding adventurers with profound solitude and breathtaking natural encounters.

Lost Lake, located in the northern region of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and adjacent wilderness areas, is a destination for backpackers seeking to immerse themselves deeply in Colorado's high country. While some might find the trail "rough" or the immediate lakeside area "not particularly scenic," the true value of Lost Lake lies in the journey to get there and the access it provides to even more spectacular landscapes further west. It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect, witness incredible wildlife like bighorn sheep and moose, and experience the Rockies in their raw, untamed glory.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to understanding what Lost Lake entails for Colorado locals. We'll detail its location and the challenging but rewarding accessibility, outline the limited but crucial services available, highlight its unique features and the unforgettable experiences it offers, and explain why this specific type of wilderness camping is so appealing and suitable for those of us who cherish Colorado's rugged beauty and the principles of Leave No Trace.

Lost Lake is located near Estes Park, CO 80517, USA, specifically situated in the northern end of the Mummy Range within the northern region of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). The journey to Lost Lake typically begins from the Dunraven trailhead (also known as North Fork), which follows the North Fork Big Thompson River. To reach this trailhead, you would drive from Bond Park in downtown Estes Park for approximately 7.5 miles on MacGregor Avenue/Devils Gulch Road to the Glen Haven Post Office, then continue for another 1.7 miles on Devils Gulch Road to Dunraven Glade Road, turning left and driving 2.2 miles to the trailhead.

It's crucial to understand that access to Lost Lake is primarily via a backpacking trail, and it is a designated wilderness campsite. The trail itself is described as "rough" and requires a significant hike, making it less suitable for casual day-trippers and more for prepared backpackers. One reviewer noted that the "trail to arrive is rough (if you’re from a much lower elevation state)," indicating that even for Coloradans, it can be a challenging ascent, with an approximate travel time of 8 to 10 hours and an elevation gain of 2,750 feet over 9.7 miles from the Dunraven Trailhead.

The trail to Lost Lake passes through the U.S. Forest Service Comanche Peak Wilderness for several miles before reaching the boundary of RMNP. This means that while some areas might be accessible to various vehicles, the final approach to the designated campsites around Lost Lake is strictly on foot. Parking areas at trailheads, especially for backcountry access points like Dunraven, can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends during peak seasons. As Lost Lake is within Rocky Mountain National Park's wilderness area, an entrance pass for RMNP is required, and for overnight stays, a Wilderness Permit is mandatory and must be obtained in advance from the park's Wilderness Office. These permits are limited to preserve the wilderness character of the area. This demanding but rewarding accessibility ensures that Lost Lake maintains its pristine, less-trafficked environment, truly offering an escape into the heart of the Rockies for those willing to earn it.

• Designated Wilderness Campsites: Lost Lake features 4 designated wilderness campsites. These sites are primitive, meaning they offer minimal amenities and are intended for self-sufficient backpackers. Each party is assigned one campsite for parties of 1 to 7 people.

• Privy (Outhouse): A basic privy (outhouse) is available at the campground. Reviewers have noted a "Great privy!", indicating it is well-maintained for a backcountry setting.

• Water Source: Water is available from the inlet or outlet streams of the lake. However, all water collected must be boiled or adequately treated before consumption to ensure safety, as is standard practice in wilderness areas.

• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: A commercial hard-sided carry-in/carry-out bear-resistant food storage canister is required from April 1 through October 31. These canisters must be placed 70 adult steps away from the campsite to protect both campers and wildlife. Canisters can often be rented from local sporting goods stores in Estes Park.

• No Campfires: Campfires are strictly prohibited at Lost Lake campsites to minimize impact on the wilderness. Backpackers must use portable stoves only for cooking.

• Permit Required: A Wilderness Permit is mandatory for any overnight camping trip at Lost Lake within Rocky Mountain National Park. Permits must be picked up in person at designated Wilderness Offices.

• Leave No Trace Principles: Visitors are expected to strictly adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash (even organic waste like food scraps), properly disposing of human waste (digging a 6-inch deep cathole 200 feet from water/camps/trails or packing out waste), and leaving what you find.

• True Wilderness Immersion: Lost Lake offers an authentic backcountry experience, requiring a strenuous hike to reach, which helps to preserve its pristine nature. This makes it ideal for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with the untamed Colorado wilderness.

• Abundant Wildlife Sightings: Campers frequently report incredible wildlife encounters. Reviews specifically mention seeing "big horn sheep and moose," providing unforgettable moments with Colorado's majestic fauna. This is a significant draw for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Excellent Privy: Despite its remote nature, the campground features a "Great privy!", a notable highlight for backcountry facilities. This attention to a basic but essential amenity enhances the comfort of a primitive camping experience.

• Challenging but Rewarding Trails: While the trail to Lost Lake is "rough" and challenging, especially for those less accustomed to high elevation hiking, the effort is well worth it. As one reviewer noted, if you hike "west past the site, up the hill - it makes every bit of the journey worth it," hinting at even more spectacular views and experiences beyond the immediate lake area.

• Serene and Secluded (West of Lake): While the immediate lake area and campsites may be small and "not scenic" according to some, the area "west of Lost Lake" is highly praised for its beauty and offers a more picturesque setting. This suggests that further exploration beyond the campsite can unlock truly stunning vistas.

• Absence of Bugs (Seasonally): A positive highlight mentioned by a past visitor was "zero issue with bugs" during an August visit, which can significantly improve the outdoor experience, though this can vary year to year.

• Wildflower Displays: The trails leading up to Lost Lake, particularly in mid-to-late summer, are known for "lots of wildflowers on the way up," adding vibrant color to the already beautiful landscape and making the hike itself incredibly scenic.

• Pacific Northwest Vibe: One reviewer noted the trail had a "very Pacific NW vibe," suggesting lush, verdant landscapes, which can be a unique and refreshing experience within the Colorado Rockies.

Lost Lake is a designated wilderness campsite within Rocky Mountain National Park. As such, direct phone contact for the specific campground is not available in the traditional sense. For all inquiries regarding wilderness permits, regulations, trail conditions, and general park information, please contact the Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office or Visitor Centers.

Address: Estes Park, CO 80517, USA (General location within Rocky Mountain National Park)

For Wilderness Permits and Park Information:

Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office: (970) 586-1242 (This is the general park information line, which can connect you to the Wilderness Office.)

Note: Wilderness Permits are required for overnight stays and must be picked up in person at the east side Headquarters Wilderness Office (adjacent to the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center on Highway 36 west of Estes Park, CO) or at the west side office located within the Kawuneeche Visitor Center (Highway 34, north of Grand Lake, CO). Online reservation for permits is typically done through Recreation.gov.

Lost Lake near Estes Park is uniquely suited for Colorado locals, particularly those who are seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and crave a challenging yet profoundly rewarding backpacking experience. This isn't a destination for the faint of heart or those seeking quick comfort; rather, it’s for Coloradans who truly understand and appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of our high country wilderness.

Firstly, the very nature of Lost Lake as a designated wilderness campsite within Rocky Mountain National Park aligns perfectly with the adventurous spirit often found in Colorado residents. We often seek out experiences that push our boundaries and connect us more deeply with nature. The "rough" trail and the requirement for a Wilderness Permit ensure that this area remains pristine and less crowded, preserving the solitude that many locals cherish. It offers an escape from the more populated front-country campgrounds, allowing for a true immersion in the backcountry where you can "disconnect from city lights and relax under the stars."

Secondly, the potential for incredible wildlife sightings—including "big horn sheep and moose" as noted by past visitors—is a huge draw for Coloradans. Our state is renowned for its diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, far from human interference, is an experience that truly resonates with those who live here and appreciate the wild. This makes the challenging hike even more worthwhile, transforming it into a wildlife viewing expedition.

Moreover, the emphasis on Leave No Trace principles and the requirement for bear-resistant food canisters align seamlessly with the responsible outdoor ethics prevalent in Colorado. Locals understand the importance of preserving our natural resources and minimizing human impact. Lost Lake serves as an excellent proving ground for these principles, ensuring that campers are not just visitors but stewards of the environment. The "Great privy!" is a bonus, demonstrating that even in primitive settings, a level of care can be maintained.

While the immediate lake area might not always be the most "scenic," the true reward lies in the expansive landscape and the opportunity for further exploration. The mention of hiking "west past the site, up the hill" for an even more rewarding view speaks to the adventurous mindset of locals who are always looking to go a bit further for a bigger payoff. This campground isn't about luxury; it's about authentic connection with nature, challenging oneself, and experiencing the untouched beauty of Colorado's alpine wilderness. For any Colorado local ready for a true backpacking adventure, Lost Lake offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Rockies.

Lost Lake

Estes Park, CO 80517, USA