Finch Lake via Allenspark Trail

This is an out-and-back from Allenspark Trailhead to Finch Lake via Allenspark Trail and the Finch Lake–Pear Lake trail. Use 7.3 miles round trip and allow 3½–4½ hours for the GPS-mapped route; the stored path is about 3.6 miles each way. A park trail sign lists Finch Lake at 4.0 miles from this entry, so its rounded distance and the mapped line do not match exactly. The Finch Lake and Wild Basin trailheads are separate starting points with their own distances.

The route climbs under timberline through dense forest, with some steep sections. A granite outcrop opens a view toward Longs Peak and Mount Meeker; it is the best place to pause for the view. At the junction, turn left toward Finch Lake. The climb reaches above 10,000 feet, so the altitude adds to the effort.

Finch Lake is a shallow, high-elevation lake in thick lodgepole pine forest. Backcountry campsites sit on its north side. The trail continues toward Pear Lake; the park sign lists that destination at 6 miles from Allenspark, making it a separate, much longer outing. Turn around at Finch Lake for the route described here.

Allenspark Trailhead is off Meadow Mountain Drive at the edge of a residential area. No dedicated public lot was confirmed, and limited roadside parking plus no-parking and private-property signs have been reported. Confirm legal parking before setting out, and do not block driveways or use signed private spaces. Pets are prohibited on all Rocky Mountain National Park trails.