Thunder Lake is a high alpine lake- nearly above the treeline- that sits in a less frequently visited part of Rocky Mountain National Park. This trip is unique in that it’s a combo backpack and basecamp trip. We’ll hike in the Thunder Lake with full packs, lunching at Ouzel Falls, then setting up our roomy camp for the next 3 nights right alongside the lake. We’ll use only day-packs for the next 2 days, dropping pack weight and making this a great trip for new backpackers. Day 2 has us exploring Box and Eagle Lakes, which are stocked with trout- fish cookout anyone? A day-hike to the Lake of Many Winds is on tap for Day 3. There are peak summiting opportunities on both days for the ambitious hikers, plus all the meadows, wildflowers, wildlife, and freshwater streams that make up a classic Rocky adventure. Breaking camp on Day 4 takes us down a different path on the way back to the trailhead- enjoying waterfalls and lush green forests. Our Thunder Lake Pack and Camp trip is 4 days of everything that's great about the Rockies. A perfect trip for families, newer hikers and those looking for a slower pace
We will start our Rockies backpacking adventure by gathering at our hotel and double-checking guest gear, pack fit, and supplies. We'll enjoy the ride to the Wild Basin trailhead, and fuel ourselves up for a great hike. Climbing is the key today — an easy but consistent ascent. We'll hike through meadow and along a stream, stopping for lunch at Ouzel Falls. We'll arrive at Thunder Lake with plenty of time to set up camp, relax and enjoy a lakeside dinner.
We get to sleep in and relax a bit this morning, and enjoy a great breakfast on the beach of Thunder Lake. We ditch the big packs today and go light for a wonderful day-hike to Box and Eagle Lakes. A lunch beside the lake while marmots check out the high alpine visitors — there will be plenty of time to enjoy the views and relax. Keep an eye out for elk in this area, and wildflowers will start to pop around mid-summer. After some high mountain relaxation, we'll hike back down to Thunder Lake for a great camp dinner and a night under the stars.
We will try for a relatively early start today, but a morning breakfast and some coffee will get us going. Today brings off-trail conditions — mildly rocky terrain and high winds. The aptly named Lake of Many Winds greets us after a 3 mile hike. We'll be above the tree line and exposed to all the wonder and weather the Rockies bring. The go-getters in the group may choose to summit Boulder Grand Pass at 12,100' — some scrambling is required for this option, but there are other great hikes around the lake for those looking for less taxing trails. After we get out, we'll hike back to Thunder Lake for afternoon rest and a campside dinner.
Another slower paced morning is in store today — we'll have breakfast and enjoy our last morning in the wilderness. It's back to the big packs today, but we're heading downhill! We'll hike along streams and meadows, surrounded by wildflowers. Elk and moose are common in this area, so we'll keep our eyes peeled. We'll stop for pictures, relax, and enjoy waterfalls on the way down. Our driver awaits, and we'll head back to Estes Park to say our goodbyes — for now.
