Cub Lake
2012_08_26 with Maya
Cub Lake is a 3-4 season destination highlighted by the Big Thompson River, large elk herds of Moraine Park, and vibrant autumn colors. A beautiful lake with mountainous backdrop. Lots of lilly pads on the lake's borders. We observed elk, snakes, ducks, squirrels, chipmunks and birds.
Every fall large elk herds congregate in these food-rich meadows for their annual rut, a spectacular ritual where dominant bulls battle for mating rights. Mule deer gather in smaller numbers and are a common sight throughout the year.
The trail reaches an unmarked split for South Lateral Moraine Trail and bends decisively west up valley (.55 miles : 8,095'). Small-medium sized ponds and thick grass beds dot the valley floor, ideal habitat for seeing elk. Well-spaced ponderosa, spruce, aspen and fir create good wildlife viewing lanes across the lower valley.
The trail moves quickly on a mild grade that steepens past 1.75 miles (8,285') and enters a thick aspen grove. Enjoy this colorful section from the trail, as the stream-laced forest floor is covered in ivy.
The winding trail relaxes on the edge of a marsh at the Cub Creek Backcountry Campsite spur (2.2 miles : 8,603'), and continues west to the northeast corner of Cub Lake (2.3 miles : 8,624').
Round-Trip Length:4.6 miles
Start-End Elevation: 8,121' - 8,624' (8,643' max elevation)
Elevation Change: +503' net elevation gain (+643' total roundtrip elevation gain)
Skill Level: Easy-Moderate
Trail Map: http://www.protrails.com/trails/map/27/rocky_mountain_national_park/cub_lake
More Info: http://www.protrails.com/trails/view/27
Read MoreCub Lake is a 3-4 season destination highlighted by the Big Thompson River, large elk herds of Moraine Park, and vibrant autumn colors. A beautiful lake with mountainous backdrop. Lots of lilly pads on the lake's borders. We observed elk, snakes, ducks, squirrels, chipmunks and birds.
Every fall large elk herds congregate in these food-rich meadows for their annual rut, a spectacular ritual where dominant bulls battle for mating rights. Mule deer gather in smaller numbers and are a common sight throughout the year.
The trail reaches an unmarked split for South Lateral Moraine Trail and bends decisively west up valley (.55 miles : 8,095'). Small-medium sized ponds and thick grass beds dot the valley floor, ideal habitat for seeing elk. Well-spaced ponderosa, spruce, aspen and fir create good wildlife viewing lanes across the lower valley.
The trail moves quickly on a mild grade that steepens past 1.75 miles (8,285') and enters a thick aspen grove. Enjoy this colorful section from the trail, as the stream-laced forest floor is covered in ivy.
The winding trail relaxes on the edge of a marsh at the Cub Creek Backcountry Campsite spur (2.2 miles : 8,603'), and continues west to the northeast corner of Cub Lake (2.3 miles : 8,624').
Round-Trip Length:4.6 miles
Start-End Elevation: 8,121' - 8,624' (8,643' max elevation)
Elevation Change: +503' net elevation gain (+643' total roundtrip elevation gain)
Skill Level: Easy-Moderate
Trail Map: http://www.protrails.com/trails/map/27/rocky_mountain_national_park/cub_lake
More Info: http://www.protrails.com/trails/view/27
