Ascending Hikes – Estes Cone via Lily Lake TH

For more information on the CMC Ascending Hikes Section: Ascending Hikes Section — The Colorado Mountain Club (cmc.org)

We'll be hiking from the Lily Lake trailhead in RMNP, first taking a loop around Lily Lake along the Lily Ridge and Lily Lake trails. We'll then turn SW along the Storm Pass Trail. Once we cross Aspen Brook, it will be a steady climb to Storm Pass where we meet the Estes Cone spur trail, with a steep climb to the rounded summit crag. This modest mountain is strategically positioned to showcase panoramic views of the Estes Park Valley and the east side of RMNP. We'll find a spot at or near the summit to stop for lunch/snack while we take in the views. Our pace will be determined by the strength, stamina, and endurance of the group. We'll make our way down off the summit and return to the cars by the same route with the exception that we'll complete the Lily Lake loop we experienced on our way up. (Lily Lake to Estes Cone - CalTopo)

The Colorado Mountain Club's Ascending Hike Section (AHS) provides an opportunity to make new friends and explore new places in Colorado's backcountry, while increasing your personal hiking speed, strength, and stamina. The section is administered by CMC volunteers.  There is no cost, fee, or scheduling commitment.  There are no dues or elections.  Open to all CMC members.  To join the section, contact the CMC office.

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at Estes Park Visitor Center parking lot at 7:30am, for no later than 7:45am departure (Estes Park Visitor's Center - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to Lily Lake Parking Lot (Lily Lake - Google Maps)