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| Loch Vale |
This was a banner year for snow pack in the Colorado Rockies, which was evidenced by high drifts of snow and streams and falls running fuller and faster than I have seen in my 20+ years of living and hiking in the area. Water falls were particularly spectacular especially at Alberta Falls and also at the Alluvial Fan region near Horseshoe Park.
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| Alberta Falls |
The highlight of the trip was a hike to Loch Vale, a crystal clear lake nestled at the base of a rugged mountain peak and set against the baby blue Colorado sky. In a word, "spectacular", but that doesn't even come close to doing it justice. It is about a 3-mile (one way) hike from the Bear Lake parking lot, and it has close to 1000' of elevation gain. The trail also passes the stunning Alberta Falls, which this year was roaring full of water due to the heavy snow melt. It is rated as a moderately difficult trail, and it sees very heavy use. I recommend getting there very early to avoid the crowds.
We were lucky to see a wide variety of wildlife in and around Moraine Park including a red-tailed hawk soaring above the meadow, elk herds roaming across overflowing streams, a fox slyly searching for its next meal, and a speckled fawn with its mother climbing to safety up a slope of fresh green summer growth.
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| Moraine Park Campground |
We stayed at the Moraine Park Campground, which is one of RMNP's biggest with 245 sites. Although it is often full on the weekends, it didn't feel crowded since the sites were well-spaced over a large area, and many of them, especially on the campground's perimeter, had exceptional views of Rocky Mountain scenery. Cost for an RV site was $20/night plus a separate park entrance fee. There is no electricity nor water hook ups, but some of the restrooms have flush toilets and there are water spigots located throughout the campground. Hot showers, groceries, and restaurants can be found just minutes away in Estes Park. Check the visitor's center in Estes Park for more information.
We were lucky to see a wide variety of wildlife in and around Moraine Park including a red-tailed hawk soaring above the meadow, elk herds roaming across overflowing streams, a fox slyly searching for its next meal, and a speckled fawn with its mother climbing to safety up a slope of fresh green summer growth. 
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