Hike to Sky Pond
Sky Pond in September
Sky Pond Hike: A Must-Do Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park
Sky Pond is one of the most talked-about hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)—and for good reason. I had been hearing about it forever and finally tackled the hike in late September 2024. It turned out to be one of those perfect hiking days: crisp, cool air, just warm enough to stay comfortable, barely any clouds, and golden sunlight illuminating the peaks.
Getting Started: The Trail to The Loch
We started early since it’s a long hike, and for the first part of the morning, we hardly saw anyone. The first major stop on the hike is The Loch, and I have to say, it might just be my new favorite spot in the entire park. This alpine lake is absolutely breathtaking, and unlike some of the more famous destinations in RMNP, it remains fairly quiet—perfect for taking in the scenery without the crowds. I’ve also seen moose here, so it’s a no brainer that I’ll be back.
The Famous Waterfall Scramble
As we got closer to Sky Pond, the trail became busier, but nothing overwhelming. The one thing I had been nervous about before doing this hike was The Waterfall—the section you have to climb to continue the trail. I had read about it on AllTrails, and to be honest, the idea of climbing up a wet, rocky waterfall didn’t sound appealing. I’m not the most confident on my way down steep sections, and the thought of navigating slippery rocks made me hesitant.
I told Ben I’d hike with him to the waterfall and decide from there if I felt comfortable enough to continue. Well, I’m here to tell you: this waterfall is NOT scary.
As long as you take it slow, wear proper hiking shoes, and don’t mind using your arms a little, you’ll be fine. This is coming from someone who hates scrambling—if I could do it, you can too! The biggest thing to keep in mind is that it’s a narrow section, so if the trail is crowded, passing people can be tricky. I’d recommend starting early to avoid congestion, allowing yourself plenty of time, and giving people time and space on this section.
Lake of Glass: The Hidden Gem
Once you climb the waterfall, you arrive at Lake of Glass, which honestly turned out to be my favorite part of the hike. The sense of accomplishment after conquering the waterfall combined with the incredible alpine scenery made it an unforgettable moment. Many people assume this is Sky Pond—it’s easy to see why, as it’s absolutely stunning. You’re further from the mountain peaks here, which makes the landscape feel even more expansive.
The Final Push to Sky Pond
But don’t stop here! I overheard quite a few hikers thinking they had made it to Sky Pond when they were actually at Lake of Glass. Some of them were not thrilled to find out they still had more hiking ahead. But trust me, you didn’t come all this way to stop short!
The final stretch to Sky Pond isn’t difficult, and the reward is worth it. The pond is surrounded by dramatic peaks, including Taylor Peak, Taylor Glacier, Thatchtop Mountain, and Sharkstooth. It’s an awe-inspiring destination and the perfect place to take a break, soak in the views, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment.
Final Thoughts
Sky Pond is a must-do hike for any RMNP adventurer. It has everything—alpine lakes, waterfalls, stunning mountain views, and just enough of a challenge to make you feel like you’ve truly earned the experience.
If you’ve done this hike, let me know—what was your favorite part? Did you love The Loch, Lake of Glass, or Sky Pond the most?
Safety & Gear Recommendations
This hike takes you above treeline, so always check the weather forecast before heading out. Conditions can change rapidly, and you don’t want to get caught in a storm, especially on such a long hike.
You can do this hike year round, but check AllTrails for the most recent trail conditions. There will still be snow in June - you might need spikes.
Recommended Gear:
Plenty of Water - I’d personally bring more than 32 oz, but I drink a lot of water :)
Hiking Poles - net necessary but I wish I had them on the way back as my legs were tired
First Aid Kit - Never hike without some sort of first aid kit!
Headlamp - incase you are starting out before the sun!
Snacks and a Packed Lunch - enjoy your journey, have a snack!
Glass Lake on a beautiful Fall Day
The Loch on a Fall Day. We lucked out with zero wind this day, which is pretty rare.
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