Lake of Many Winds Trail

Lake of Many Winds is a strenuous 15.3-mile out-and-back from Wild Basin Trailhead, climbing through the Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls corridor, past Thunder Lake, then into a high basin below Boulder-Grand Pass. Plan roughly 10–12 hours: that is a practical estimate for the distance, high elevation, substantial climbing and rough upper approach. Published lake-only totals range from 15 to 16.5 miles; this route follows the mapped lake approach and turns at the lake. It does not climb Boulder-Grand Pass.

The established lower approach climbs through forest along a creek and passes several waterfalls before reaching Thunder Lake. Thunder Lake is about 6.8 miles one way from Wild Basin, with 2,074 feet of gain; Lake of Many Winds adds the steep upper leg. The route's payoff is an alpine lake beneath the pass, reached after the waterfall-and-lake approach.

From Thunder Lake, follow the north shore, cross its inlet stream and climb a narrow, unmaintained path above treeline to Lake of Many Winds. This last section is informal and requires map reading and backcountry navigation. Treat the lake as the turnaround; continuing toward the pass is a separate, longer and much harder outing. The lake sits at about 11,620 feet. Published gain estimates differ, from roughly 3,120 to 3,800 feet, so expect a sustained climb rather than relying on one precise figure. From shore, the water and steep pass walls make the defining view.

From Estes Park, take Colorado 7 south toward Allenspark, turn at the Wild Basin Ranger Station sign and follow the dirt road about two miles to the trailhead. In winter a gate can leave the regular trailhead about a mile farther up the road and add walking to the listed route; check park access before setting out. Restrooms are available at the Wild Basin Visitor Center. Pets are not allowed on Rocky Mountain National Park trails.