Lily Lake
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.
More Activities Near Estes Park
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road offers families an unforgettable alpine adventure, climbing to over 12,000 feet with stunning panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. This scenic byway provides easy access to the tundra ecosystem with multiple pull-offs and overlooks where kids can spot elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep while experiencing one of America's highest paved roads.
Black Canyon Trail
Black Canyon Trail offers families a rewarding riverside hiking experience in the heart of Estes Park with moderate terrain that's achievable for active kids. The trail follows a scenic waterway where children can spot wildlife, listen to rushing water, and experience Colorado's stunning mountain landscapes without the extreme difficulty of higher-elevation hikes.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park offers families an unforgettable outdoor experience with over 1,000 square miles of majestic peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park features numerous easy, kid-friendly trails like Bear Lake and Sprague Lake loops, plus the scenic Trail Ridge Road that climbs above treeline where even little ones can spot elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep from the car. With free admission and activities for every fitness level, it's an ideal destination for creating lasting family memories in nature.
Nymph Lake
Nymph Lake offers one of Rocky Mountain National Park's most rewarding short hikes for families, with just 0.7 miles each way delivering stunning alpine scenery. Kids stay motivated by the cascading waterfalls along the way and the crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by lily pads at the destination, making this moderate trail feel like a true mountain adventure without overwhelming young hikers.