Spirit Lake Lodge

Cascade Falls is fed by the North Inlet of Grand Lake. The North Inlet Trail is popular for backpacking, taking visitors to many sought-after destinations including Cascade Falls. Along this route, you'll pass several options for overnight backcountry camping for larger groups including the Summerland and Twinberry Group Sites. This area was burned in 2020 by the East Troublesome Fire. This route is not recommended as a winter hike, but is great as a shoulder season adventure. Even during...

The Shadow Mountain Fire Lookout Tower was built in the 1930s for park rangers to spot forest fires. You can still visit this historic structure today. The tower itself is closed, but you can still get incredible views of Shadow Mountain Lake, Grand Lake, and Lake Granby from the top of the peak. Weather conditions on this route can change to severe, storming, or wintery at any time (even in the middle of the summer). Afternoon thunderstorms arrive without warning. It is important to get an...

Lone Pine Lake sits above Grand Lake at over 9500 feet. This route along the East Inlet Trail takes you to the first in a string of lakes along the East Inlet itself. This route can be a great overnight trip, with several backcountry campsites along the way including East Meadow, Lower East Inlet, Cats Lair, Cats Lair #2, Gray Jay Group Site, and Slick Rock. Anytime you are adventuring in Rocky Mountain National park, its a good idea to download your map ahead of time since cell service can...

This route to Adams Falls is a perfect hike for families with kids. The East Inlet feeds Adams Falls as it cascades through a rocky cliff. Along this lollipop-style hike, you'll also find a short side trip that provides easy access to the East Inlet itself. You'll get a stellar view of the river as it meanders through a broad wetland area with mountains towering in the background. During the winter and shoulder seasons, this route can get very icy. It's a good idea to keep your eye on...

Lake Verna is one of the popular destinations along the East Inlet Trail. The trail itself continues several miles past Lake Verna to several lakes. For the entire East Inlet Trail, check out: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/east-inlet-trail-to-spirit-lake This route can be a great overnight trip, with several backcountry campsites along the way including East Meadow, Lower East Inlet, Cats Lair, Cats Lair #2, Gray Jay Group Site, Slick Rock, and Lake Verna. Anytime you are...