Dream Lake

Dream Lake
Dream Lake
Dream Lake
Dream Lake
Dream Lake


Dramatic peaks rise like wallpaper around this scenic lake, which is among the highlights from a flurry of water features along Bear Lake Trail.

Dream Lake is a stunning alpine lake. Its shimmering surface reflects the surrounding steep mountainous forest, creating beautiful opportunities for photos or memories. Leading to the water basin are myriad nature trails that provide spectacular views of Rocky Mountain National Park. Stand on the eastern shore and gaze up at the imposing Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain that rise high above the water.

Start walking along Bear Lake Trail and listen to the birdcalls coming from the surrounding forest. Sneak views of pond lilies gracing the surface of enchanting Nymph Lake. Wildflowers beautify the shores of this serene spot.

Continue along the path and pass picturesque Lake Haiyaha, which is surrounded by a large jumble of boulders. Look for The Sharkstooth peak rising up behind the lake.

After Lake Haiyaha, Dream Lake is not much farther along Bear Lake Trail. Arrive and enjoy a picnic with your family on a large, flat boulder. Admire the views of the Tyndall Gorge between the mountains. Watch fishers hard at work in the clear waters. If you look closely, you may see trout swimming over the pebbled bottom. Wander through the adjacent forest and spot chipmunks and other wildlife.

Arrive early in the morning, when this popular lake is least busy. If you have time, consider visiting nearby Emerald Lake, a little farther along the same trail. Note that the path is considered fairly easy to walk, making it accessible for everyone in the family.

Dream Lake is located at the end of Bear Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is at the foot of Hallett Peak. From Estes Park, drive southwest for 13 miles (21 kilometers) to reach the lake in about half an hour. You can also ride the free shuttle bus to the trailhead.

Explore the surroundings for other gems such as East Glacier Knob, Saint Catherine’s Chapel on the Rock and McHenrys Peak.

Popular places to visit


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YMCA of The Rockies Estes Park

YMCA of The Rockies Estes Park

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Swiftcurrent Lodge and Cottages by the River

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Deering Crest -- Ev #3249 3 Bedroom Condo by RedAwning

Deering Crest -- Ev #3249 3 Bedroom Condo by RedAwning

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Hearthstone Luxury Vacation Rental At Windcliff 5 Bedroom Home

Hearthstone Luxury Vacation Rental At Windcliff 5 Bedroom Home

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Dao House

Dao House

3 out of 5
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Aspen Leaf Luxury Vacation Home At Windcliff 5 Bedroom Home by RedAwning

Aspen Leaf Luxury Vacation Home At Windcliff 5 Bedroom Home by RedAwning

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Riversong Inn Retreat

Riversong Inn Retreat

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Dream Lake

At Dream Lake in Estes Park, Colorado, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking, wildlife watching, and guided tours. The area features lush gardens perfect for leisurely strolls, alongside recreational facilities such as a basketball court, a play area for children, and a jogging track for fitness enthusiasts. This picturesque location offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and serene relaxation, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Shopping

Eagle Plume's, located 11.3km from Dream Lake, offers unique local gifts. Red Rose Rock Shop and Dick's Rock Museum, 12.9km away, features stunning rock specimens. If you're up for a drive, Stanley Village, 14.5km away, boasts diverse shops and vibrant entertainment for the whole family.

Recreation

At Estes Park Golf Course, enjoy a rejuvenating round of golf amidst stunning mountain scenery, just nine miles from Dream Lake. For relaxation, Stanley Park offers serene walking paths and picnic spots, while Shadow Mountain National Recreation Area provides tranquil trails for meditation and connection with nature, ten miles away.

Adventure

Embark on the Bear Lake Trailhead for a scenic hike, taking in the stunning landscapes 1.3km from Dream Lake. For a family adventure, ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, located 12.9km away, or explore the outdoor beauty of Cub Lake Trail, located 8.0km from Dream Lake.

Nightlife

In Dream Lake, the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre offers a charming cultural experience with its romantic performances, while Reel Mountain Theatre and Historic Park Theatre provide exciting cinematic entertainment, both fostering a delightful atmosphere for couples and families alike, all within a short drive of the lake.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Dream Lake

Dream Lake, nestled in Estes Park, Colorado, offers a delightful array of attractions, including picturesque lakes, stunning national and state parks, and informative visitor centres. Ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, or a romantic escape, the area invites travellers to immerse themselves in nature's beauty and explore the enchanting surroundings. A visit here promises memorable experiences that cater to diverse interests.

  • Rocky Mountain National Park: A stunning expanse of natural beauty, this national park offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, from hiking to wildlife viewing. With breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes, it is a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, located 4.8km from Dream Lake.
  • Emerald Lake: Nestled half 1.6km away from Dream Lake, this enchanting lake is perfect for romantic strolls and scenic picnics. Its serene waters and picturesque surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and photography.
  • Alberta Falls: A mile from Dream Lake, this captivating waterfall offers an exhilarating outdoor experience. The sound of rushing water and the lush greenery surrounding the falls create a romantic and adventurous vibe, making it a must-visit destination.

Best time to go to Dream Lake

The best time to visit Dream Lake is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January19.0°F (-7.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February18.7°F (-7.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April32.5°F (0.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
May42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
October38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
November27.7°F (-2.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December19.0°F (-7.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dream Lake

To save money on your trip to Dream Lake, consider visiting in January, April, or November when accommodation prices dip. Booking your hotel around a month in advance can yield better rates, and Monday is typically the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find exclusive deals, sort by price, and explore eco-friendly hotel options. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Lastly, keep an eye out for last-minute deals for spontaneous trips, as they can offer significant discounts.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dream Lake are January, April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Dream Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dream Lake is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Dream Lake is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred destination, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your Dream Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.