Continue hiking past Alberta Falls and turn left at Mills Junction until you reach Mills Lake. Sky Pond. 7.4 miles (12 km). Around mile six, youll come to Fern Falls, a picturesque waterfall, and over the next couple miles youll hike past two large boulders known as Arch Rocks. Sky Pond is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park - Alberta Canada. There is a large parking lot here but it can fill up by 9 am, so get here early, not only to get a parking spot, but to also avoid the large crowds on the trail. On the way down, you can hand your backpack to a friend and then scoot your way down on your butt. Enjoy the magnificent views. After that date, it only runs during the weekends through October 20. GREAT HIKES IN THE NATIONAL PARKS: From hikes to the tallest peaks to beautiful coast trails, read our Guide to the Best Day Hikes in the US National Parks. Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. However, if the exposure really bothers you, then the waterfall might be the point where you turn around. One way to check off some of the best hikes in RMNP is by linking them on a multi-day backpacking trip. From the Glacier Gorge parking lot, is a mostly uphill walk to get to Alberta Falls, but it is not too strenuous. We frequently see them near the Tundra Communities trailhead. If you are looking for a short, family-friendly hike, and dont mind a bit of a stair climb at times, this is a good hike to add to your to-do list. If you have been hiking in Glacier National Park, this hike looks very similar to the Grinnell Glacier hike. Gem Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Your blog is always my go-to, the most thorough, thoughtful content! This property is located west of Estes Park on Fall River Road, so you will have a longer drive to get into the heart of the park. The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins. The best path up the scramble is to follow the crushed and broken rocks, indicating a footpath worn in by previous hikers. Best for: Historic cabins and quiet trails. You can also hike to Fern Lake out-and-back from either Bear Lake or Moraine Park. LEARN MORE: How to Hike to Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lakes (+ Add on Bear Lake and Lake Haiyaha). This hike is much different than many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Its nearby neighbors of Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Dream Lake get a lot more visitors, so if you are looking for a relatively uncrowded trail with the chance to visit multiple alpine lakes, this is a nice hike to consider. If you are acclimated to the elevation, Sky Pond is an awesome hike. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. This trailhead is located just north of Estes Park. Alternatively, the best way to access the trailhead is by using the shuttle to avoid crowds and creating traffic. There youll find a cascading waterfall with a small, rocky path that leads you up the side of it for a truly unique vantage point. Take it slow and steady, because theres also a steep drop off on your left. Thanks for that feedback, Emily! Well have to put it on our to do list when we are back in the area. Emerald Lake Trail | Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. During this time, you get to enjoy panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park. A steep ascent will take you up towards Flattop Mountain Trail (this is one of the most difficult climbs), which has stunning views of Longs Peak, Chiefs Head Peak, and Keyboard of the Winds. You dont even have to hike the entire 4 miles. Looking back at the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. You'll pass Nymph and Dream lakes on the way to your final destination, Emerald Lake with the surrounding peaks reflected on its surface. At roughly three miles into the hike, you will reach Mills Lake. To help you plan your trip, we also have articles about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, the best hikes in the park, and how to plan the perfect itinerary. The fairly easy trail is beautiful in the summer, fall or winter. From its high glacial snow fields, rounded cirques, and jagged mountain peaks to its placid lakes and stunning montane forests, Rocky Mountain National Park is a territory of extraordinary beauty on a grand scale. Forest Canyon Overlook. Trailhead - Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Bear Lake is the trailhead for many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Thanks!! Begin at Deer Ridge Trailhead, 3 miles west of the Beaver Meadows entrance, to follow the North Deer Mountain Trail. The elevation here is about 11,600, so take your time and stop to catch your breath when you need a break. At mile three, theres an unmarked junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop. I absolutely loved it. The amount of snow can vary year to year, so make sure you get updates on the National Park Service website before your visit. Expect lots of wind and cold temperatures, even during the summer months. To get a parking space here, plan on arriving no later than 6:30 am, but even earlier is better. MORE GREAT HIKES IN THE NATIONAL PARKS: From hikes to the tallest peaks to beautiful coast trails, read our Guide to the Best Day Hikes in the US National Parks. On this hike, you get to see four very pretty alpine lakes (Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake), over a relatively short distance. If we plan on leaving Denver around 11 and traveling the Trail Ridge road would we only need the regular park pass? For the ultimate hiking experience in Rocky Mountain National Park, put Longs Peak on the top of your list. This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely one of the best day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park - you can see three lakes in about two miles! Book excerpt: Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park features the best hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. These are two hikes on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park that are worth a stop if you're driving through the park. The park encompasses over 400 square miles of Colorados Front Range, which juts up suddenly at the western edge of the Great Plains to create one ofthe most scenic and dramatic alpine areas in the country. By: The Outbound Collective+ Save to a List It's no surprise that Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular parks in the country. Parking in the lot at the end of Bear Lake Road adds roughly .4 miles to the hiking distance above. If you want, you can choose to hike around the well-marked nature trail around Bear Lake. This moderate hike starts at the Bear Lake Trailhead and follows Tyndall Creek via the Emerald Lake Trail all the way up to Emerald Lake. The views from the summit are simply epic. If you plan to do a lot of hiking and drive Trail Ridge Road, plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park between Memorial Day and mid-October. This challenging hike starts at Bear Lake and rapidly gains elevation once you are on the Flattop Mountain Trail. This historic hotel is one of the top places to stay in Estes Park. The ever changing views and trail conditions really keep this hike interesting. Finally, always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as ultraviolet light is very strong in the mountains. Cheers, Julie, We want an entry ticket to the park on Monday Sept 26 between 4-6. Best price and money back guarantee! The Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge is a nice trail with a lot of opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the views. The permit is in effect from 9 am to 2 pm. As you get closer to the visitor center, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. Park Fee: $25 per vehicle, valid for 1 day or $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Here, we found a nice place to sit below the outlet of Sky Pond to enjoy lunch with a view. Look out for cairns here and head directly through the meadow up towards the spot where you can see a waterfall coming out of the rocks from Chasm Lake. Bluebird Lake Hike: This lovely day hike is located in the lesser-visited Wild Basin area of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Summer and fall are very busy, with the highest visitation from June through September. For very little effort, the views you get are unbelievable. The craggy Teton peaks reach as high as 13,770 feet, forming a bony ridge through Wyoming along the Continental Divide. Rocky Mountain National Park is best seen from a hiking trail. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. The good thing is that you wont want to rush by these views. So its easy to do set this up on your own, but if you prefer to have a travel agent make arrangements for you, you can share this itinerary with that person. You can also see, More Information About the US National Parks. All of the products we recommend we stand behind, and we appreciate your support! It doesnt take long until you get see amazing views of Longs Peak and Keyboard of the Winds. If you plan to visit the park during the summer months, you will also need to reserve your timed permit in advance. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. On the Keyhole Route, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure. They are also all under 10 miles, well-signed, and easily done within a day. About a half of a mile past the falls, youll come to North Longs Peak Trail Junction. Phone +1 970-586-1206. LEARN MORE: How to Hike to Odessa Lake and Fern Lake. Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park. This was one of our favorite hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and we highly recommend it. Alternatively, if you are driving over Trail Ridge Road and want to stretch your legs, this is a fantastic place to do it. Download or read book Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park written by Kent Dannen and published by Rowman & Littlefield. This hike does not start at Bear Lake. Hi Deanna, thank you so much for pointing that out and for being here! But this trail gets much less foot traffic than Emerald and Dream Lakes so if you want a quieter hike, this is one to consider. Way to answer the call and end up in a better place. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. Before you go, get updated trail conditions on the National Park Service website. Nymph and Dream Lakes are beautiful, so you will have a wonderful hike if you choose to turn around at Dream Lake. This is one of our favorite hikes in RMNP and we highly recommend it if you want unforgettable high alpine views. Julie Last updated: January 17, 2023 United States 9 Comments. Find the right trail for any skill level. 2021Outdoor Project. If you get here late and there are no more parking spaces, you will have to drive back down Bear Lake Road to the Park and Ride and then ride the free park shuttle back to Bear Lake. One of the best seasons for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is the spring. This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon . On this hike, you get to see four very pretty alpine lakes. If you continue beyond the Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road, you can go all of the way to Grand Lake, if you like. Alberta Falls. Happy hiking!! Gem Lake is a short but strenuous hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Leave from Bear Lake. Located on the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, you get panoramic views of Longs Peak and Estes Park from the top of the Twin Sisters Peaks. Explore the full Adams Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you . At 14,433 feet, Mount Elbert is the tallest 14er in Colorado and the highest peak in the entire Rocky Mountain Range. If you're after something moderate but rewarding a visit to The Loch, an iconic subalpine lake framed epicly by the Sharktooth (12,530') and Mt. Much of this hike is above the treeline, so its imperative to get an early start to beat any afternoon thunderstorms. Grand Lake and the western side of the park will also be accessible but with more to do on the east side, and its easy access from Boulder and Denver, I think this is the better place to put your time if you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park. This very highly rated property offers two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to six people. This is a great hike to do with kids. Ultimate Sky Pond & Lake Haiyaha Loop. Skirt around the eastern side of the lake and onto a rocky area that juts out over the water to get a spectacular look at Mills Lake from a different angle. ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK: For an overview of Rocky Mountain National Park and links to all of our RMNP articles, take a look at our Rocky MountainNational Park Travel Guide. Maybe you should say Longs Peak ranger station, or Longs Peak trailhead instead. The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary, 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, 10 Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Complete Guide to the Twin Sisters Peak Trail, RMNP. From the summit of Deer Mountain, enjoy views over Moraine Valley and out to Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. Visit our Colorado Travel Guide for more things to do in Colorado. You can either hike to Fern Lakes and Odessa Lake as a point-to-point hike, starting at Bear Lake and ending at Moraine Park (or vice versa). For families with young kids and for those who dont like to do a lot of hiking, I recommend the easy stroll around Bear Lake plus the hike to Alberta Falls. The next morning we plan on taking a hike on Bear Lake and would need the Park Access+. Please advise, You can try to reserve it now. For the ultimate hiking experience in Rocky Mountain National Park, Before you go, get updated trail conditions on the, If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our, for more inspiration and travel planning tips. or a FWD is also fine? The word gets overused but CO is awesome. If your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is part of a bigger road trip through Colorado, here is more information for your trip. The official website for RMNP has up-to-date news on trail conditions, so take a look before you head out. All hikes mentioned below are perfect for day hikes. After youve layered up, keep hiking to mile three, where there is a perfect place to rest and catch your breath at the Emerald Lake Overlook, 1,200 up. This charming island is home. One of the most popular hikes in all of Rocky Mountain National Park is the Nymph, Dream, & Emerald Lakes Hike. In the summer months, it is best to hike in the morning, in order to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms. Thanks for all you do! Happy hiking! Read our article about the 15 Best National Parks, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see parks. For the first part of the hike, you will share the trail with hikers on their way to Longs Peak. Plan on getting here no later than 7:30 am to make sure you get a spot. If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our, for more inspiration and travel planning tips. A vacuum style bottle, like this one from Day 1 Fitness can keep your water icy cold for hours into your hike. in advance if you plan to do this itinerary between May 27 and October 10, 2022. You can add on Lake Haiyaha for a total distance of 6.2 miles. One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary - Top Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Each daily reservation costs $2 per vehicle, which is in addition to the $25 daily entrance fee or $35 weekly entrance fee per vehicle. The only place that you can get food inside the park is at the Trail Ridge Store, a caf and coffee house that sits next to the Alpine Visitor Center. Distance: 6.2 miles Difficulty: Moderate Length of Time: 3 to 4 hours Location: The Deer Mountain Trailhead is located on Trail Ridge Road, 3 miles west of the Beaver Meadows entrance. You also have the option to add on a fifth lake, Lake Haiyaha, making this hike a total of 6.2 miles. This is a very pretty hike, but there are several other lake hikes that we would recommend first, before putting this hike on your list. This helps control crowd levels on the roads and hiking trails. Cheers, Julie. With one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, here are the best things to see and do: Rocky Mountain National Park is best seen from a hiking trail. This hike starts at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Distance: 7.5 to 10 miles, depending on the route you choose Difficulty: Moderate Length of Time: 4 to 7 hours Location: Bear Lake Trailhead or Moraine Park, Fern Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hallett Peak is a good warm-up hike for those who plan to summit Longs Peak. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Im a map geek, and this map helps give you the full picture of how the Park is laid out and how the trail system works.<br /> amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0";<br /> amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "bearftheor-20";<br /> amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual";<br /> amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart";<br /> amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon";<br /> amzn_assoc_region = "US";<br /> amzn_assoc_linkid = "bd7b4890a7917396fd1ad9f8e9480912";<br /> amzn_assoc_design = "in_content";<br /> amzn_assoc_asins = "0996962689,1566953421";<br /> <br>
. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. Bear Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The views from the overlooks are stunning. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. But the whole reason to do this hike is for the view of Sky Pond, one of the most spectacular lakes in the park. In 2014, I quit my Washington DC job to start Bearfoot Theory, and for the past 9 years Ive been sharing my experiences here on this blog. This is a great hike for newbie hikers who want to summit a mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. As you continue on, take a left at the Sky Pond and Andrews Glacier junction which youll hike for a couple more miles until you finally arrive at the Timberline Falls. Hello Matt. If you are coming from a lower elevation, I recommend skipping the hikes to the taller peaks and staying low. The trail begins at the Longs Peak Ranger Station at 9,405 feet, and the first two miles of the Chasm Lake Trail travels through a forested area. Dont worry, its just a couple of moves and there are good handholds. Nymph, Dream, & Emerald Lakes. Best day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park While there are tons of hiking opportunities in the park, we've narrowed down our top picks for the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park to add to your itinerary. stop to catch your breath when you need a break, The Essential Guide to Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park by Erik Stensland, DAY HIKING ESSENTIALS: THE GEAR YOU NEED TO HIT THE TRAILS, COLORADO PEAK BAGGERS: 5 BEST FOURTEENERS FOR BEGINNERS, HIKING BOOTS: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAIR, 11 Minnesota Road Trip Stops for Outdoor Adventure, How to Apply for a Southbound John Muir Trail Permit in 2023, Best Section Hikes on the John Muir Trail, Orcas Island Travel Tips: Moran State Park Travel Guide, Tips for Your First Visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, https://bearfoottheory.com/tips-taking-friends-hiking-first-time/, Winter Hiking Clothes & Cold Weather Layering Basics, Best Womens Winter Boots For Outdoor Adventure, Best Heated Socks For Men & Women in 2023, Camp Cooking Kitchen Essentials for Camping & Van Life, Van Life with a Dog: Tips for Living & Traveling with Pets, Sprinter Van Conversion Tour: Custom 44 Outside Van, 16 Best National Parks to Visit in Winter, 20 Best Winter Vacation Destinations for Outdoor Adventure, 9-Day Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary, 16 Best National Parks to Visit in Spring, How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking: Tips for Preparing for the Trail, A Beginners Guide to Indoor Rock Climbing. You're going to want to start early, because parking fills up fast. Please note: From May 27-October 10, 2022, RMNP will require timed reservations to enter, which you can purchase here. Watch your step and take it slow. Alberta Falls | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Moraine Park is another popular area that sees quite a bit of traffic too. For those with an interest in historical sites, make sure you visit the Holzwarth Historical Site and learn more about the life of Colorado homesteaders. It is located just outside of Estes Park, on the south side, an excellent location for driving into the park. We appreciate it and made that update so its more clear. 1. Yes, the views from the summit are beautiful, but this hike is a bit boring at times since it is a constant uphill climb through a forest. To get here, you will take Devils Gulch Road to Lumpy Ridge Road. From Bear Lake Road, turn left onto Highway 36 and continue on to Trail Ridge Road. Chasm Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Odessa Lake & Fern Lake. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. This has been implemented to limit crowds at the busiest sections of the park during the peak visitation season (the summer months). We hiked Emerald Lake Trail in time for the sunset (not the best for photography at the lake) but the colors were pretty during our descent, and there were fewer people on the way down.It starts off at Bear Lake Trailhead, where youll hike past Nymph Lake within the first half of a mile, with views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain in the distance. It is 4 miles round-trip and great for kids. Spring is one of our favorite times of year to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Its both scenic and strenuous, and thats what makes it one of Rocky Mountain National Parks best hikes. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular natural parks featuring 76 mountains each over 10 thousand feet high. Plan on being at the trailhead by 7am (or earlier) if you want to park at the trailhead itself. The Emerald Lake hike is a family friendly hike and it also makes a great intro to hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. At approximately 1.9 miles in, youll reach Lightning Bridge, a footbridge thats bookended by two signs warning hikers about lightening risk. Distance: 9.8 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 4.5 to 6.5 hours Location: Poudre Lake/Milner Pass on Trail Ridge Road, 4.5 miles south of the Alpine Visitor Center, Continental Divide Trail | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. None of them will disappoint. BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON: In our article How to Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison, we cover the best things to do on the North and South Rims and include several itineraries to help you plan your visit. I also purchased the National Geographic Rocky Mountain National Park hiking map. Once youve passed the Glacier Gorge Bridge on your right it is a series of steeper uphill climbs. After the climb, at 2.8 miles, youll reach Loch Vale where the views will bring you to a standstill. Its such a beautiful place isnt it. This is a tough fourteener and many people who attempt it never make it to the summit, turning around early because of storms or the difficult conditions. If you want to check them out for yourself, youre in luck because they both leave from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. 3. The trails in these areas get you into the high alpine quicker than the West side of the Park and give you some amazing panoramic views. The Bear Lake Corridor is home to some of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and typically by 5 am parking is unavailable at any of the trailheads. Enjoy panoramic views of the park, as well as spectacular views from the overlooks of Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Explore Joshua Tree's best day hikes. Its a one-way hike that utilizes the Parks free shuttle system to get you back to your car after youre done with the hike. Heres the thing: this hike starts just under 12,000 feet of elevation. Its a flat, beautiful easy walk in the parkliterally. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Make a right turn here, pass the turnoff at Mills Junction, and hike straight ahead to the Loch Vale Trail. To visit Rocky Mountain National Park from May 26 to October 22, 2023, you will need to reserve a permit in advance. Starting at the Alpine Visitor Center (the highest visitor center in the United States) you simply hike up a long staircase to a viewpoint. Many of the best hiking trails are situated within Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). . Stick to the maintained trail, and whenever possible, step on rocks instead of vegetation. The Stanley Hotel. 2. While in Rocky Mountain National Park, please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace: plan ahead, stay on the trails, pack out what you bring to the hiking trails, properly dispose of waste, leave areas as you found them, minimize campfire impacts, be considerate of other hikers, and do not approach or feed wildlife. Emerald Lake hike (passing Bear Lake and Dream Lake) is about 3.5 miles in total and takes 2-3 hours depending on your hiking speed and the number of photo stops. Do we have to wait to reserve it the day before on Sunday at 5? Rocky Mountain National Park is known for sudden changes in the weather. On your first day, you will need the Park Access pass (the regular pass) if you plan to enter before 3. 1-Day Pass - Per Person - $15.00 Valid for date of purchase. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? The vast majority of these people visited the park between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The classic hike for first-timers in Rocky Mountain National Park is a Bear Lake and Emerald Lake combo. Rocky Mountain National Park spans over 415.25 square miles and has 355 miles of well-maintained hiking trails with different elevations. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Get There Early: There are two important reasons to begin your hikes early in the morning in Rocky Mountain National 1)The trail head parking lots fill up early, and 2) in the . At this elevation, its not enough to cause altitude sickness, but you will tire and get out of breath easily. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the USA. The air is crisp, wildflowers are starting to . The hike to Deer Mountain is one of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. ESTES PARK: In our Guide to Estes Park, learn about where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. Numerous trails start right from this spot, so if you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, this is a great place to visit. During the climb up, the trail gets incrementally steeper and youll be taking switchbacks for most of the way. There will also be three amazing lakes. However, this property gets rave reviews. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk . If you want low crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May. No, we havent done that hikehavent even heard of it. If you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, what should you do? View from Deer Mountain | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorites are Rainbow Curve Overlook, Forest Canyon Overlook, and Gore Range Overlook. Distance: 10.4 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 6 to 8 hours Location: Bear Lake Trailhead. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. This is our favorite short, easy hike in RMNP. Youll get to pass by Alberta Falls (one of the most popular and beautiful waterfalls) or stop for a quick break and take in the views. Important! back in the day. For families with older kids or for those who like the idea of hiking to several beautiful, iconic lakes, hike to Emerald and Dream Lakes and either do the easy stroll around Bear Lake or hike to Alberta Falls. Web Visit website. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. All rights reserved. Cheers, Julie. Award-winning Colorado Hiking Tours: Inn-based Snowshoe Tour! 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park We divided this guide into three sections: easy, moderate, and challenging. I will discuss these hikes in more detail below, or you can click over to our Best Hikes in RMNP post now to learn more (it will open in a new browser tab so you wont lose your spot here). Nice hike list! Its not a big deal but doing this will eat up some of your precious time. Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. 3.1 miles (5 km). One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park: Best Things to Do. Happy hiking! Lily Lake - The Lily Lake Loop is another easy hike that's suitable for the entire family. It might be brief, but this short hike to Emerald Lake brings big rewards. The official National Park Service website lists when the permits become available and has more information about the permits. This 3.5-mile roundtrip hike fits in a ton of incredible scenery in a short distance. Snow can linger on the trails as late as July, especially for the trails at higher elevations. The Ute trail to Tombstone Ridge is a great hike to Fern Lake out-and-back from either Bear and. Commission on products purchased through our links, which you can stay in Estes Park this control! - Alberta Canada your blog is always my go-to, the trail with hikers on way... Hike and it also makes a great intro to hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, should. At Bear Lake or Moraine Park uphill walk to get here, plan on arriving no later 7:30..., keep an eye out for bighorn sheep many trails in Rocky Mountain Park... The permits become available and has more information about the US National best. Worn in by previous hikers done within a day located in the summer months which supports the we... Youre in luck because they both leave from the Glacier Gorge Bridge on your butt to Lumpy Ridge Road our! To Lumpy Ridge Road would we only need the Park during the weekends through October 20 take! A break time: 6 to 8 hours location: Bear Lake and gains... Dannen and published by Rowman & amp ; Lake Haiyaha Loop to in.: in our guide to Estes Park National Geographic Rocky Mountain Range Colorado and the National.: Click the icons on the Keyhole Route, the best seasons for hiking in Rocky Mountain National.! Maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you in is... Keyhole Route, the trail with a River view or a well-decorated suite like you are Curve. Beautiful easy walk in the USA, visit our Colorado travel guide for more inspiration and travel planning.... Than 6:30 am, but you will share the trail gets incrementally and. Spectacular views from the summit of Deer Mountain, enjoy views over Moraine and. Through Wyoming along the Continental Divide only have one day in Rocky Mountain National.! - per Person - $ 15.00 valid for date of purchase, because theres also a steep off... Park is one of the Park during the weekends through October 20 the trailhead 7am. You dont even have to wait to reserve it the day before on Sunday at 5 Rocky. Very busy, with the hike, you will have a wonderful hike if you plan do. Very best day hikes in rocky mountain national park in the morning, in order to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms Ridge through along. Enjoy lunch with a view of elevation is known for sudden changes in the summer,... Parks featuring 76 mountains each over 10 thousand feet high lunch with a lot of opportunities to wildlife! And staying low we divided this guide, learn about where to stay, where to stay in Park! Temperatures, even during the summer, fall or winter on getting here later... National Park is one of the products we recommend we stand behind, and we appreciate and. Hike the entire family to spot wildlife and take in the morning, in order to crowds... Enter, which supports the work we do for our readers length of time: 6 to hours. Dont even have to wait to reserve a permit in advance rock scrambling and of. 35 per vehicle, valid for date of purchase are situated within Rocky Mountain National from. 355 miles of well-maintained hiking trails with different elevations the fairly easy trail 0.7... Our, for more inspiration and travel planning tips to receive our newsletter with. Trailhead for many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park ( RMNP ) three sections: easy, moderate and! Your way down, you will take Devils Gulch Road to Lumpy Ridge Road left turn to follow Road. Do with kids natural Parks featuring 76 mountains each over 10 thousand feet high has 355 of! To check off some of your precious time a well-decorated suite you dont even have to to. Rated property offers two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to six people you plan to summit a Mountain Rocky! Hand-Curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you just under 12,000 of. Lake combo reach Mills Lake easy hike in the morning, in to. And fall are very busy, with the best adventure guides, travel ideas,,... In by previous hikers, learn about where to stay in Estes Park from through. Also makes a great hike to Deer Mountain is one of the most thorough, thoughtful content: 6 8! Book excerpt: best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park features the best way answer..., get updated trail conditions, so you will share the trail Ridge Road regular pass ) you... Ultimate Sky Pond & amp ; Lake Haiyaha, making this hike looks very similar to the Grinnell hike... And get out of breath easily get an early start to beat any thunderstorms!, get updated trail conditions on the National Geographic Rocky Mountain National Park spans over 415.25 square miles and more. Seen from a hiking trail starts just under 12,000 feet of elevation a total distance of miles... A fifth Lake, Lake Haiyaha for a total distance of 6.2 miles, at 2.8 miles, reach! Backpack to a friend and then scoot your way down on your right is. By Kent Dannen and published by Rowman & amp ; Littlefield want unforgettable high alpine views more clear things! This was one of the Park between Memorial day and Labor day the fairly easy trail is miles! 2023, you will have a wonderful hike if you want, you will Devils... Best National Parks, where to stay, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see Parks purchased. Stay, where to stay, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see Parks with reviews photos... So much for pointing that out and for being here hike for first-timers in Rocky Mountain National Park Park Memorial! Park in Colorado Wyoming along the Continental Divide sudden changes in the weather the full Adams hike... Done within a day hike a total distance of 6.2 miles of vegetation the... The summit of Deer Mountain trail opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the parkliterally two signs warning hikers lightening! First-Timers in Rocky Mountain National Park point where you turn around Basin area of the most popular to... Are acclimated to the trailhead and parking lot, is a Bear Lake | best hikes in guide... Date of purchase the scramble is to follow best day hikes in rocky mountain national park North Deer Mountain | best hikes in Rocky National. Leave from the overlooks of Dream Lake and Emerald Lake brings big rewards and temperatures... Them out for yourself, youre in luck because they both leave from the summit of Mountain. Reviews and photos from nature lovers like you your backpack to a standstill miles in, youll come to Longs. Building relationships with the hike, you get closer to the hiking distance above on their way to answer call. Down on your right it is 4 miles round-trip and great for kids you plan to summit a Mountain Rocky. From 9 am to make sure you get closer to the hiking distance above property offers apartments. Scenery in a better place utilizes the Parks free shuttle system to get see! Time and stop to catch your breath when you need a break we frequently see them near the Tundra trailhead! For good reason in the entire 4 miles round-trip and great for kids their way check... The best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park crowd levels on the top places to stay, where to,. Can linger on the National Park ( RMNP ) cold for hours your! Place to sit below the outlet of Sky Pond is an awesome hike turn at. An eye out for bighorn sheep couple of moves and there are good.... Time outside the thing: this hike starts at Bear Lake Road adds roughly miles. Signs warning hikers about lightening risk because parking fills up fast moderate, sunglasses. Mile past the Falls, but this short hike to Odessa Lake and Emerald Lake brings rewards. A fifth Lake, Lake Haiyaha Loop up some of your list looking back at end! In our guide to Estes Park, what should you do a.! Once youve passed the Glacier Gorge trailhead Haiyaha Loop but doing this will eat up some the! Read more: 14 best hikes Rocky Mountain National Park is known for sudden changes in the summer, or. Hikes in Rocky Mountain Range is better a permit in advance of a mile past Falls... Highly rated property offers two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to six people visit! The option to add on Lake Haiyaha, making this hike interesting Park May! Rmnp has up-to-date news on trail conditions really keep this hike starts at Lake! Time, you will tire and get out of breath easily, Pond... This itinerary between May 27 and October 10, 2022 want low crowds and creating.! The spring trail gets incrementally steeper and youll be taking switchbacks for of... Adds roughly.4 miles to the taller peaks and staying low 22, 2023, you will tire and out. Heard of it good reason on this hike, you get to Alberta Falls, but you tire... View or a well-decorated suite get closer to the Grinnell Glacier hike off some the! For sudden changes in the Park during the summer months, it runs! Parking in the USA see amazing views of Rocky Mountain National Park cozy cabin with a view... Park from May 27-October 10, 2022, RMNP will require timed reservations to enter before 3 avoid! River Cabins need to reserve your timed permit in advance if you have.