Dream Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Dream Lake offers stunning views of the Rockies as well as a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. In the summer, hikers can take advantage of the many trails in the area, including the popular Dream Lake Trail. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are also plenty of opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and bird watching. In the winter, Dream Lake is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If you're looking for more of an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of opportunities for biking, rock climbing.

Dream Lake is a picturesque body of water that has been a popular destination for centuries. Prior to the arrival of Euro-American settlers in the 19th century, the area around Dream Lake was inhabited by various Native American tribes. The Ute Tribe, in particular, had a strong presence in the region and often visited the lake to hunt and fish. In 1858, gold was discovered in Colorado, sparking a wave of settlement in the state. Dream Lake soon became a popular spot for settlers looking to escape the bustle of city life. Today, Dream Lake remains a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers from all over.

The best time to visit Dream Lake in Larimer County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the area. The views are also stunning during this time of year, as the wildflowers are in bloom and the mountains are visible in the distance.Fall is also a popular time to visit Dream Lake, as the leaves start to change color and the air becomes crisp and cool. 

1. Make sure to pack plenty of sunblock and insect repellent. Even on cloudy days, the UV rays can be intense at high altitudes.
2. Dream Lake is located in a wildlife habitat, so please be respectful of the local wildlife and refrain from disturbing their homes.
3. Set aside a full day to explore the area. Dream Lake is just one of many beautiful natural attractions in Larimer County, so you'll want to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all that the area has to offer.

1. The lake is situated at an elevation of 9,910 feet, one of the highest-elevation lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. 
2. The lake is named for its scenic beauty; it is surrounded by mountains and has a view of Hallet Peak. 
3. There are campsites located around Dream Lake, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
4. Dream Lake is fed by melting snow and rainwater from neighboring Hallett Peak.
5. The lake is renowned for its mirror-like surface, which reflects the surrounding mountains perfectly.
6.  Dream Lake freezes over in winter, making it a popular spot for ice fishing and cross-country skiing.

You can spend some beautiful time in this area and the average time a visitor spends around 8 to 10 hours. 

To reach Dream Lake, begin at the trailhead near the east end of the parking lot at Rocky Mountain National Park’s Bear Lake. From there, follow the well-marked signs and hike uphill for about a mile until you reach Dream Lake. The last part of the trail is relatively steep, but the views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain are worth the effort. Once you reach the lake, be sure to explore the surrounding area.

The entrance fee for Dream Lake in Larimer County, Colorado is $5 per person.

Dream Lake is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.