Storm Pass Trail

Overview

Storm Pass Trail is a quiet, forested connector that links Lily Lake on Highway 7 to the Bear Lake Road corridor, topping out at Storm Pass (10,250 feet) on the shoulder of Estes Cone. Expect long stretches of lodgepole and spruce-fir forest, meadows, creek crossings, and intermittent views toward Longs Peak.

Distance, Elevation, and Time

The full out-and-back is about 14.5 miles total with roughly 3,261 feet of elevation gain, taking many hikers around 7.5 hours. As a point‑to‑point with a car shuttle, plan on roughly half the distance (about 7–7.5 miles) one way with rolling elevation. A popular add‑on is the spur to Estes Cone (11,006 feet); from the Storm Pass junction it climbs steeply—nearly 800 feet in about two‑thirds of a mile—and feels much harder than the mileage suggests.

What You’ll See and Feel

From Lily Lake, the path begins on an old service road before narrowing to singletrack. Early on you’ll catch sporadic peeks at Longs Peak, then settle into dense forest with a stout climb for the first couple of miles. At about 3.1 miles from Lily Lake you’ll hit the Estes Cone junction—continue straight for the pass, or turn right for the summit. Past the pass, the trail trends west then north, passing through Moore Park and toward the Glacier Creek/Sprague Lake area near Bear Lake Road. Scenery highlights include shaded forest, small meadows, creek sounds, and big-mountain vistas if you take the Estes Cone spur.

Trail Character and Crowd Level

This is a demanding, long hike—more about a peaceful traverse than nonstop vistas. The tread can be rocky, and horses use sections, so expect manure here and there. Signage is average; carry a map or GPS and pay attention at junctions. Crowds are moderate compared to the Bear Lake hotspots, especially on the Lily Lake side.

Best Time to Hike

June through September is the reliable window. Start early to beat summer afternoon thunderstorms and to enjoy cooler temps and better light through the forest. Outside this window, snow and ice linger and the full route is not recommended; adjacent lower loops may still be doable with proper traction and winter travel experience.

Logistics and Access

• East start: Park at Lily Lake along Highway 7; the Storm Pass Trail departs from the south end of the lot. Overflow parking may be available across the highway at the old visitor center area.
• West finish: The trail meets the Glacier Creek/Bear Lake Road network near Sprague Lake—use a car shuttle or pickup if going point‑to‑point.
• Timed entry and fees: Park entry fees apply. In peak season (roughly late May to mid‑October), a timed‑entry reservation system is typically in effect; choose the correct corridor (Bear Lake Road vs. the rest of the park) based on your itinerary.

Variations Worth Considering

• Estes Cone add‑on: Short, very steep spur from Storm Pass with cairned route‑finding and hands‑on moves near the top—huge views if weather cooperates.
• Granite Pass big loop: A strenuous challenge tying Storm Pass to Granite Pass from the Sprague Lake side for more alpine feel and bigger vistas.
• Shorter sampler: A loop from East Portal via Wind River and Glacier Basin touches the Storm Pass segment for a lower‑commitment day.

Tips and Cautions

• Weather: Thunderstorms are common on summer afternoons—be below open meadows and high points early.
• Altitude: Acclimate; most of the day is above 9,000 feet and the pass sits over 10,000.
• Footing: Sturdy footwear recommended; trekking poles help on steep or loose sections, especially on the Estes Cone spur.
• Regulations: No pets on trails. Backcountry camping is by designated site with a wilderness permit.

Bottom line: If you want a quieter, woodsy traverse with the option to “earn” a summit view via Estes Cone, this is an underrated day. If you’re chasing constant alpine panoramas without the extra effort, there are more immediately scenic options in the park—though they’ll be busier.