Finch Lake

Finch Lake is located in one of the less trafficked areas of the Rocky Mountain National Park, the Wild Basin Area. One can get there either from the Finch Lake trailhead, which is located inside the park, or from the Allenspark trailhead, which is located outside the park.

In winter, it may be preferable to start from the Allenspark trailhead. Located right off a county road, it is more likely to be plowed and in better condition than the road to the Finch Lake trailhead inside the park. Beware: trailhead parking is off street with space for about seven to eight cars. In winter, the trail signs could be completely snowed over, so look carefully. Be aware and careful of the tracks created by backcountry and cross-country skiiers. These trails may lead away from your destination, and you could get lost.

Snow height varies wildly during the winter season and from year to year, and Rocky Mountain National Park tends to see most of its winter precipitation during late winter. Because Wild Basin gets fewer visitors than other parts of the park, expect snows to be heavier and trails to be more obscure. You may need snowshoes from start to finish.

The trail climbs steadily and straightforward without diversions. Close to 0.75 mile in, the trail from the Finch Lake trailhead joins the trail from Allenspark Trailhead on the right. The trail through the woods is very serene and calm. The last 0.25 mile before reaching Finch Lake descends close to 250 feet. At Finch Lake, stunning views of Mount Meeker and Long's Peak can be seen to your right. Snowshoers have the option to continue to Pear Lake 2 miles beyond Finch Lake.