With spring upon us, I daydream about all the hiking I will embark on this coming season. I feel my heart pounding, and this time it isn’t an anxiety attack. It’s the excitement of spending a lot more time in nature.
I gather my bucket list and contemplate where to go first. I crave the sound of flowing water; a small creek or a waterfall hike. My mind wanders to some of my previous adventures. Though not much for flowing, I recall my time at Echo Lake.
Echo Lake Park is part of the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation (DMPF), formed in 2004 to protect Denver’s Mountain Parks System. At 10,600 feet above sea level, Echo Lake Park is one of DMPF’s focuses.
The lake is 24 acres, formed by glacial lateral moraine. It sits at the base of the 12,216-foot Goliath Peak. To its eastern shore, is the 97-year-old log structure, home to a restaurant and gift shop, which will reopen sometime in 2025 after renovations are complete.
Also on the 616 acres are the two 100-year-old stone structures and a shelter/concession stand. Aside from biking, hiking, and camping, the park offers a stunning view of Mount Blue Sky and a variety of wildlife, including many birds.
It’s one of the nicest lakes to walk around, with an easy, short loop and plenty of opportunities to sit and enjoy the wilderness. During its peak season, May through September, it can be challenging to find a quiet moment, but they do exist.
The drive through the scenic Mestaa’Ehehe Mountain Pass, between Idaho Springs and Evergreen, is well worth the visit. I once saw a red fox running on the road with a mouth full of lunch meat. Yes, there is camping nearby. Yes, I took a photo of the fox.
It was near October when I was last at Echo Lake Park. I sat on a picnic bench, wondering what the birds were chirping about and snapping endless photos. If I had let it, one gray jay would have jumped in my camera bag.
A handful of families were there, but it was quiet enough to enjoy the sound of nature. I felt like I was inside one of those YouTube videos with beautiful scenery and relaxing music. I could have stayed there all my life, except without all the people.
No offense, but as I’ve mentioned before, I’m an introvert. I love alone time, especially with nature. However, some of my favorite places are filled with people and I love visiting them. If you’re curious about those places, check out The Mountain-Ear’s 2024 Visitors Guide, due in stands by Memorial Day.
Echo Lake Park is located next to 13264 Chicago Creek Road, Idaho Springs. To learn more, visit https://mountainparksfoundation.org/parks/echo-lake-park/.
