Rocky Mountain National Park: Ypsilon Lake Loop
On this 8.4-miler, you'll climb well-marked trails to the tentacle-like flanks of Ypsilon Mountain and its namesake lake, then return off-trail by following a mountain stream past unnamed waterfalls.
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Hike Ypsilon Lake Loop
INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm
PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season). nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcntry_guide.htm
CONTACT Rocky Mountain National Park, (970) 586-1206; nps.gov/romo
Trail Facts
- Distance: 13.5
Waypoints
YLT001
Location: 40.407383, -105.626213
Lawn Lake trailhead; trail climbs quickly with overlooks to Horseshoe River and Hidden Valley
YLT002
Location: 40.417667, -105.633469
Roaring River cuts a deep path into valley
YLT003
Location: 40.420017, -105.634987
L @ Y onto Ypsilon Lake Trail; cross river
YLT004
Location: 40.42585, -105.645515
Trail remains in woods but levels out
YLT005
Location: 40.439034, -105.662201
Take a breather @ Chipmunk Lake; main trail leads NW; avoid spur paths
YLT006
Location: 40.443813, -105.662277
Peer across Ypsilon Lake @ broad headwall; good spot for nap or yoga
YLT007
Location: 40.443218, -105.661751
Begin off-trail hike; walk on the R side of the stream
YLT008
Location: 40.443184, -105.660797
Splendid waterfall into gorge; continue following animal paths downstream
YLT009
Location: 40.441849, -105.653648
Cross gurgling mountain brook
YLT010
Location: 40.4352, -105.64267
Caution: Dropoffs ahead; veer away from river on descent
YLT011
Location: 40.43195, -105.640335
Merge with the Roaring River; skip across river
YLT012
Location: 40.431149, -105.639801
Turn R onto Lawn Lake Trail; hike 2 mi. back to trailhead
