Finch Lake
This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and a real easy day hike, unless there is snow (read on). The hike is 9 miles round trip, and requires some significant elevation gain on the return trip, as the last 0.5 miles to the lake is downhill. The trail climbs steeply at first up the face of a hill, then makes a 180 degree turn towards the lake. From the switchback, continue following the trail through the flat valley to a great overlook to Long's Peak. The south side of the peak dominates the view and with snow still on the Homestretch, it is breathtaking. Make a 90 degree left turn and follow the trail through a stretch of blown down trees. From here it climbs more noticeably to the top of a ridge. Begin decending for the last half mile to the wooded shore. Campsites are available about 0.2 miles before the lake on the right. As far as the snow goes, well, right after the stretch of blowndown trees, the trail was still snow covered. It got to be about 3 feet deep in some spots and made for an interesting hike. The downhill part was like a bobsled run, nice and icy. Some more advice? Wait until late June or early July!
Along with me on the hike: Nobody
Total Round Trip Time: 4.5 hours