Trail Description

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Deep in the East Inlet Valley lies Spirit Lake, a remote sub-alpine delight accessible by 1.1 miles of unimproved trail east of Lake Verna. Whether done as a long day hike or an overnight trip, visitors will enjoy miles of exceptional scenery en route to this uniquely tranquil lake.

Broad meadows, deep valleys, countless streams and waterfalls, infinite fishing locales, towering peaks and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities make this one of the most complete trails in all of Rocky Mountain National Park. Eight backcountry campsites along the way provide many overnight options for those seeking to extend their time in this beautiful section of the park.

The trail begins smooth and flat as it passes through a mixed pine and aspen forest. The trail follows a rushing stream for the first several hundred yards, passes Adams Falls (.3 miles), then veers off to the north edge of a vast, marshy meadow. Dramatic views up valley frame the broad, picturesque stream that oxbows through the meadow.

The trail travels inside the forest's edge on a negligible grade until reaching the Lower East Inlet backcountry campsite (2.3 mile mark). From here the trail begins a more moderate - and at times moderately steep - climb up the East Inlet Valley's south facing wall. The rise in elevation offers a good perspective on the meadow from which you just came. Tall pine trees, a healthy aspen population and audible streams lend to the overall aesthetic.

The trail remains challenging until easing out in a scenic, stream filled plateau near the Cat's Lair backcountry campsite (4 mile mark). From here the trail parallels a heavy flowing stream as it climbs on a steady but manageable grade for the next 1.5 miles to Lone Pine Lake. Tributaries seemingly spring from every direction for the remainder of the hike.

The trail swings around the south side of Lone Pine Lake; be patient with your camera, as the trail quickly climbs above the lake and offers very good views back down at it. From here the trail passes by, over and through countless streams as it climbs steadily into pristine sub-alpine terrain. The trail maintains a moderately steep grade until flattening out near the Solitaire backcountry campsite (6.2 mile mark).

The remaining .7 miles of the maintained trail run relatively flat along Lake Verna's outlet stream. A sign on the lake's western edge indicates where the maintained trail ends and the unimproved trail leading to Spirit Lake begins.

Lake Verna is a massive lake framed by towering peaks to the south and east - Mt Craig, Isolation Peak, Boulder Grand Pass and Mt Alice to name a few. The lake's west edge is an excellent spot to take in the scenery before tackling the last 1.1 miles of unimproved trail.

From Lake Verna the trail climbs only 90 more feet up to Spirit Lake, however trail finding and navigability may pose somewhat of a challenge, especially with snow or excessive debris coverage.

The unimproved trail travels closely along Lake Verna's north shore, but may be difficult to identify right away. Many informal routes have been carved out over the years, but staying on the footpath closest to the shore will ensure that you remain on the right track once past the lake. Trail conditions improve slightly beyond Lake Verna, climbing gently up valley with only minor obscurations up to Spirit Lake.

Spirit Lake is also very large, but positioned better in the valley than Lake Verna to capture the true size and scale of surrounding peaks. For those with time, the trail continues around the lake's north shore towards 4th Lake (10,360 ft, .5 miles) and 5th Lake (10,840 ft, 1.5 miles).

Worth Noting

• There are some minor but notable distance discrepancies among map sources for the section of unimproved trail between Lake Verna and Spirit, 4th and 5th lakes. Err your preparation - especially if attempting these as a day hike - on the side of the longer distance.



• Despite its long distance, this is not a difficult dayhike for those in good condition. Weather, however, may be the biggest factor. Early fall, when weather patterns tend to stabilize, is perhaps the best time to attempt this as a dayhike.



• The East Inlet Valley is especially rich in wildlife. Look for moose grazing in marshy meadows in the early morning hours and, as temperatures rise, in tall, dark timber later in the afternoon.



• Spirit Lake is 1.1 miles on an unimproved from the west edge of Lake Verna. The trail may be difficult to follow, especially with lingering snow.



• The trail will likely be wet in places throughout the summer and into early fall.



• The East Inlet Trail hosts 8 backcountry campsites. Advance reservations are necessary.



• Contact the ranger station for fishing rules and regulations. A Colorado fishing license is required. Rules are strictly enforced.

Directions to Trailhead

The East Inlet Trailhead is on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park within the town of Grand Lake. Follow Highway 34 (Trail Ridge Road) to the turnoff for Grand Lake on Highway 278. Turn east toward Grand Lake, then bypass the main road through Grand Lake, following West Portal Road and signs toward the boat launch area. The trailhead is located about 2.7 miles from U.S. 34 along the eastern shore of Grand Lake, opposite the boat launch.

Contact Information

Visitor Information:
970-586-1206

Backcountry:
970-586-1242

Campground Reservations:
800-365-2267