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Dave Spates

Dave Spates

Hiking. Adventure. Photography.

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You are here: Home / Lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado / Lake Irene – an Easy Hike off Trail Ridge Road

Lake Irene – an Easy Hike off Trail Ridge Road

Sunset at Lake Irene in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado USA
Lake Irene (10,600 ft) Calm reflections at sunset. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Just a short stroll from the parking lot off of Trail Ridge Road.
  • Date hiked: 10/10/2020
  • Hiked from: Lake Irene Picnic Area
  • Distance hiked: .2 Miles, maybe
  • Total elevation gain: 0
  • Maintained trail: Yes
  • Overall Difficulty: 1/10
  • Overall Views: 5/10 – I prefer mountain lakes located in cirques but that’s just my opinion. This is a beautiful alpine lake that’s surrounded by trees and can make a great spot for a picnic.

Lake Irene is ideal for sunrise and sunset compositions, as the loop trail in its entirety is 0.5 miles. It has an elevation of 10,600 feet above sea level. A popular picnic area adorns the far end of the parking lot. This evening we visited we were fortunate to witness a colorful sunset as a backdrop to the calm waters of Lake Irene. 

Lake Irene at Sunset Video

 

Located right off Trail Ridge Road, about 4.5 miles south of the Alpine Visitor Center, on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Due to it’s located and proximity to the parking area, this is a great destination to bring kids for a short hike. There are restrooms and picnic tables located at the parking lot. Lots of families may choose this spot for an afternoon picnic if it’s not too crowded.

The short hike around Lake Irene offers good chance to see some nice reflections on the lake. Continue on the trail past Lake Irene to an overlook of some meadows.

Smooth sunset reflections at Lake Irene
Smooth lake sunset reflections on Lake Irene
Reflections of green trees, clouds and blue skies on Lake Irene
Cloudy day before sunrise, calm lake reflections set the mood
South side of Lake Irenes grassy shore at sunset
A few downed logs on the grassy south shore of Lake Irene

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