Within a right-angled bend of the Continental Divide lies a
glacier-watered, cliff-cradled valley which for sheer rocky wildness and
the glory of its flowers has few equals. At its head Taylor Peak lifts
itself precipitously 3,000 feet to a total height of more than 13,000
feet, and from its western foot rises Otis Peak, of nearly equal
loftiness, the two carrying between them broken perpendicular walls
carved by the ages into fantastic shapes. One dent encloses Andrews
Glacier and lets its waters find the Loch. On the eastern side another
giant, Thatchtop, sheltering the Taylor Glacier, walls in the upper end
of Loch Vale. It is easily reached by a trail that leaves the Bear Lake
Road, 10 miles from Estes Park, or 1 mile below Bear Lake.
In this wild embrace lies a valley 2 or 3 miles long ascending from the
richest of forests to the barren glacier. Through it tinkles Icy Brook,
stringing like jewels, three small lakes. Those who love to explore the
undeveloped and less frequented regions will enjoy the wild beauty and
impressive grandeur of Loch Vale. The Lake of Glass and Sky Pond, just
below Taylor Glacier, can be visited in a day's trip. Another wonderful
day can be spent in a trip to the foot of Andrews Glacier.