A spectacular lake with a shiny reflective surface lies in the midst of nature trails, snowy mountain peaks and the nearby Sky Pond.
Lake of Glass is a stunning body of water surrounded by the dramatic crests of the Rocky Mountains. Its approach has a picturesque waterfall and it is surrounded by trails through the national park’s forests. Set up a picnic on one of the large rocks along the shore and relax amid the calm atmosphere in this secluded setting.
Admire views of the mountains, reflected in the crystalline water of the lake. Look west for The Sharkstooth and east for Thatchtop, among the rocky behemoths on either side of the lake.
In winter, the tops of the mountains are covered with snow. Appreciate the stillness of the lake in colder times, when it is frozen over. Sometimes the surface freezes in a pattern of icy crests, with drifting snow exaggerating the wavy appearance.
Note that the site is along Loch Vale Trail, continuing from Glacier Gorge Trail, which meanders for miles through hilly forests past multiple lakes. It is a moderate to strenuous pathway that is quite popular from April to September, when the path is clear from snow and ice. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the trail with fewer fellow hikers.
Stop at Alberta Falls early in the hike and snap photos of this set of cascades. Use extra caution as you walk along the slippery rocks near Timberline Falls, another impressive landmark just before the rigorous climb to Lake of Glass. Reach Sky Pond, which has yet another waterfall not far from the trail. It lies a little past the southern end of Lake of Glass, with Icy Brook connecting the two water basins.
Lake of Glass is in the southern part of Rocky Mountain National Park. If you are based in the town of Estes Park, drive southwest for 12 miles (19 kilometers) to get to Glacier Gorge Trailhead in about half an hour. On the way, stop at other scenic landmarks such as Eagle Cliff Mountain, Moraine Park and Emerald Mountain. Purchase a weekly or annual pass to enter the park.
