Photo: Andre
Photo: Kat Adams
Photo: Renee Schlenz
Lily Lake
★4.8(1,302 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Perfect for all ages, including infants in carriers and strollers. Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5) especially love the short distance and wildlife spotting, while older kids (6+) can bring cameras or binoculars to enhance the experience. The accessible trail makes it ideal for families with varied ages and abilities.🧡 Saved by 300+ families
About
Lily Lake offers one of the most kid-friendly hikes in Estes Park with a flat, easy 0.9-mile paved loop that's perfect for little legs and strollers. The pristine mountain lake provides stunning Rocky Mountain views, frequent wildlife sightings including ducks and occasional elk, and plenty of spots to stop for snacks while kids explore nature safely.
Highlights
- ✓Completely flat, paved loop trail perfect for strollers, bikes, and beginner hikers
- ✓Abundant wildlife including ducks, geese, chipmunks, and frequent elk sightings
- ✓Stunning photo opportunities with mountain reflections in the crystal-clear lake
- ✓Multiple benches and picnic spots for snack breaks along the trail
- ✓Wildflowers bloom throughout spring and summer months
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (before 9am) for the best chance of seeing elk and deer, plus easier parking during peak summer months
- 2.The trail is fully paved and stroller-friendly, but bring a baby carrier as backup for rockier overlook areas
- 3.Pack duck-friendly food alternatives like oats or birdseed,kids love feeding the waterfowl, but bread isn't healthy for them
- 4.Bring layers and jackets even in summer; the 8,900-foot elevation means temperatures can drop quickly and winds pick up in afternoons
- 5.The west side of the loop offers the best photo opportunities with Longs Peak reflecting in the lake
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (7-9am) offers the calmest conditions, best wildlife viewing, and fewer crowds. Visit mid-week during summer to avoid weekend congestion. Spring through fall (May-October) provides the most comfortable weather, though each season offers unique beauty.
What to Know
The trail is completely free with a small parking lot that fills quickly on summer weekends (consider parking along the highway if full). No food services are available on-site, so pack snacks and water. Restrooms are vault toilets in the parking area.
Seasonal Notes
Accessible year-round, though winter visits require checking road conditions as Highway 7 can be icy. Spring (May-June) brings wildflowers and baby wildlife. Summer offers warmest weather but biggest crowds. Fall (September-October) features gorgeous golden aspens and elk rutting season. Winter transforms the lake into a snowy wonderland, though trails may be snow-covered.
Nearby Eats
Head into nearby Estes Park (10 minutes away) for family favorites like Ed's Cantina & Grill for kid-friendly Mexican food, or Poppy's Pizza & Grill which offers classic comfort food and outdoor seating perfect after a hike.
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