Finch Lake is nestled within a dense pine forest in the southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. This shallow, lower-subalpine lake receives slightly less traffic than other Wild Basin Area destinations, making it a good choice during peak summer months. The trail continues past Finch Lake to Pear Lake, located in a remote corner of the Wild Basin Area. Once used as a reservoir, Pear Lake has been successfully restored to its natural state.

Copeland Lake, near the Finch Lake Trailhead

Views up the Wild Basin valley of Mount Copeland (13,176') and Ouzel Peak (12,716') along the first two miles

Native greenback cutthroat trout in the Wild Basin Area's lakes and streams

The trail skirts the east edge of Finch Lake (9,912')

Grassy aspen groves are a good place to find elk and bear from .8 - 1.5 miles

The trail enters a recovering burn area at 2.55 miles, which provides clear views across the valley

The heavy forest surrounding Finch Lake holds snow longer than exposed areas higher up the trail

Snow can remain on the trail late into summer, and even year-round at higher elevations

Cross country travel continues above Pear Lake to the Hutcheson Lakes and Cony Lake (11,512')

Aspen, fir, and ponderosa commingle in a wildlife-rich stretch from .8 miles - 2.0 miles

The Pear Lake outlet

Pear, Bluebird and Sandbeach lakes are at the headwaters of Colorado's Platte River system

Ouzel Peak (12,716') frames the NW corner of Pear Lake