60 Hikes within 60 miles: denver and boulder” by Kim Lipker
Lily Mountain is ideal for Estes Park visitors who don’t have the time or money to hike Rocky mountain national park. This is a classic alpine hike with reqarding views and a steady climb. Lily Mountain is often passed over for other hikes in the vicinity, such as the Twin Sisters, and the hike is often confused with the small walk around Lily Lake. In addition, it is usually kept secret and out of brochures, making this hike one of the least crowded around Estes Park.
Length: 1.96 miles, [One way]
Configuration: Out and Back
Exposure: Mostly shaded
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking Time: 2.5hours
8600-9600 feet
My Stats
Total Distance: 3.72 miles round trip
Time: 1:46:42 Hours
Elevation: 8,802 to 9,798 ft
Elevation Gain: 1,450 ft
This was the steepest, highest, and busiest hike of the season…and it was fantastic. There was a fun scramble to get to the top and great views at the peak.
As usual, directions to the trailhead sucked. There is a tiny little trail near mile marker 5 as described that might hook up with the trail, but the actual trailhead is between 6 and 7 miles from the turnoff.
