At a Glance
- Distance: 9.6 miles RT
- Elevation Gain: ~2,060 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Lake Elevation: ~11,060 ft
Timber Lake Trail Overview
The Timber Lake Trail begins near the Timber Creek Campground inside Rocky Mountain National Park and climbs steadily through forest and subalpine terrain to Timber Lake at approximately 11,060 feet. The trail covers 9.6 miles round trip with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain — a full-day commitment for most hikers.
Timber Lake sits in a cirque below steep peaks and is one of the more remote day hike destinations accessible from the RMNP west entrance. The trail passes through three distinct vegetation zones — montane forest, subalpine meadow, and alpine tundra.
Planning the Hike
Start early — Timber Lake's full-day length means you want to be at the lake by midday and back at the trailhead by mid-afternoon to avoid afternoon thunderstorms on the exposed upper sections. Bring 3+ liters of water (the lake is not suitable for drinking without filtration), high-energy food, and layers for the exposed summit sections.
The trailhead shares parking with the Colorado River Trail near the Timber Creek area. Arrive before 8 AM on summer weekends for reliable parking.
Access from Grand Lake Cabins
The Timber Lake Trailhead is approximately 5 minutes from Grand Lake Cabins properties — enter RMNP through the west entrance and follow signs to the Timber Creek/Colorado River area. A park entry fee or America the Beautiful pass is required.
This hike is best for experienced hikers comfortable with long distances and significant elevation gain at high altitude. Altitude adjustment is important if you are arriving from low elevations.
Distance and Access
The Timber Lake Trailhead sits at around 9,000 feet, roughly 9.5 miles north of the park entrance on Highway 34. Published figures give about 4.8 miles one way, with round-trip listings closer to 10.2 miles, rated moderate to challenging.
It is a full-day hike, and the trailhead drive up the Kawuneeche Valley adds meaningfully to the round trip. Best season is broadly summer into early autumn.
A Lake Above the Trees
The trail climbs steadily to an alpine lake set below the ridgeline, and the last stretch opens out of timber into high country. It is a popular objective for backpacking and fishing as well as day hiking.
The elevation at the top is significant enough that weather can differ sharply from the valley floor. Afternoon storms build quickly in summer, which is the main argument for an early start rather than a leisurely one.
Making the Day Work
Groups doing this from the cabins are looking at a dawn departure to be comfortable. The five-minute drive to the park entrance helps; the valley drive beyond it does not, so allow for both.
Every property has a full kitchen for packing lunches the night before, and a private hot tub for afterwards. At this elevation, hydration through the day matters more than most visitors expect.
Distances, elevation gain and difficulty above are drawn from published trail listings and are given as a guide. Published figures vary between sources, and trail conditions, closures and access change through the season. Check current conditions with the National Park Service at nps.gov/romo before setting out.