What a fantastic list of RMNP hikes! If this sounds like a hike you would like to do, it will take some planning and patience. The most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Continue for two more miles until you reach Black Lake. This is a great hike for newbie hikers who want to summit a mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. 2021Outdoor Project. 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. Thanks for your comment. Get our top tips for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park including when to go, where to camp, hiking tips, how to beat the crowds, and more. Although its tempting to stop here, there are even more spectacular views up ahead. Maybe you should say Longs Peak ranger station, or Longs Peak trailhead instead. You can still get around, but it might be on skis or snowshoes, rather than by vehicle. If you are not acclimated to the higher elevation, its normal to get out of breath very easily. But don't be intimidated by its height. best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. Your blog is always my go-to, the most thorough, thoughtful content! At the very end of the hike, there is one steep section and a short scramble. As you ascend higher, the trees disappear, as you enter the subalpine region. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? Meanwhile, Kara and I hiked Bear, Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes. Bearfoot Theory participates in affiliate programs with a variety of retailers and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, including Amazon, REI, Backcountry and others. In the summer months, the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park are hiking, driving Trail Ridge Road, taking a stroll around Bear Lake, driving Old Fall River Road, and mountaineering. Continue on until you reach Chasm Meadows with its flowing streams and beautiful green grass. Drive Trail Ridge Road (late spring through early fall). Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. Hikes in this guide are chosen and reported on by experienced members of the Colorado Mountain Club. The sweet spot months are from late May until mid-June and from early September after Labor Day until mid-October. If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our United States Travel Guide for more inspiration and travel planning tips. And for Rocky Mountain National Park, it is. This one comes in multiple colors and three different sizes and has a carabiner to attach to your pack. So, climb those stairs, catch your breath if you need to, and enjoy the awesome view from the top. Its about nourishment and learning. ESTES PARK: In our Guide to Estes Park, learn about where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. On the Keyhole Route, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure. Emerald Lake Trail The hike to the Emerald Lake is one of the easiest hikes in Rocky Mountains National Park Length: 3.2 miles | Elevation gain: 698 feet | Guide 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. Backpack the California Hiking and Riding Trail. There will also be three amazing lakes. Best For: Bragging rights. Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park #1 Trail Ridge Road #2 Beaver Meadows Visitor Center #3 Downtown Estes Park See Full Ranking List Tours & Sightseeing Discover Rocky. Bear Lake. Book excerpt: Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park features the best hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. Up above 10,000 feet the air is thin, the temps are much cooler, and the wind is usually . In fact, hikers will enjoy outstanding panoramic views along much of the route. Ida on day 3. This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. As it goes with all of the destinations shared on Bearfoot Theory, please remember to Leave No Trace. With 415 square miles of breathtaking mountain environments and more than 300 miles of hiking trails, you will never run out of things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. It will fit in your pocket or daypack and features color photos and maps throughout. 7 best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park By Julia Clarke published November 23, 2022 Crunch through the snow surrounded by dazzling peaks on some of the best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park In the summertime youll be surrounded by wildflowers. Ida (we loved the panoramic views along most of the trail, not to mention the jaw-dropping views from Mt. Alberta Falls. Obviously, there are more than the hikes listed in this blog post, but if you are visiting for the first time, these will keep you plenty busy and give you a taste of the different environments and ecosystems in the Park. Best price and money back guarantee! Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Emerald Lake Trail | Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. For the full list, read our article about the Best Scenic Drives in Colorado. PRO TRAVEL TIP: For the hikes that start on Bear Lake Road (Bear Lake, Alberta Falls, Mills & Black Lake, Sky Pond, Fern Lake, Hallett Peak) consider either arriving very early in the day (by 7 am) or taking the free park shuttle. Very nice list, Sky Pond is my favorite, as well as Black Lake. Elevation Gain - 1,761 Feet. How to get there:Highway 36 will take you directly into the park. Begin at Deer Ridge Trailhead, 3 miles west of the Beaver Meadows entrance, to follow the North Deer Mountain Trail. Cheers, Julie. As you get closer to the visitor center, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. One of the best seasons for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is the spring. This historic hotel is one of the top places to stay in Estes Park. However, if you only have the time for one hike, and the thought of a tough, 9-mile hike isnt a deal breaker, we recommend Sky Pond. This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY: For more information about the camera gear we carry, check out our Travel Photography Gear Guide. That book is pure gold. A vacuum style bottle, like this one from Day 1 Fitness can keep your water icy cold for hours into your hike. find gorgeous views on your choice of easy routes with little to no incline, moderate trails extending 3.4 - 4.5 miles, or challenging routes recommended for experienced hikers only. If you are staying in Estes Park, it is a 20-minute drive to get here. The entire hike is less than a mile in length, making it great for all ages and ability levels. Take a left onto Bear Lake Road, and arrive at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. 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. There are three ways to hike to Fern Lake. Dig in and hike the rest of the way to the summit of Flattop Mountain, where it is more of a plateau rather than a peak, but nevertheless, offers panoramic views of nearby mountain ranges like Mummy Range and Notchtop Mountain in the distance. 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. Sign up for access to our free Member-only resources, packing lists, and itineraries. . Get info on JMT starting trailheads, trail quotas, lottery dates & more. An AWD and FWD vehicle is fine for Rocky Mountain National Park. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon . 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. From the viewpoint, you are standing at 12,005 feet. I have been to RMNP in March when there was very little snow on the ground and I was able to go hiking without any special gear. Aspenglen, Moraine Park, and Glacier Basin are the most popular campgrounds and these get reserved well in advance. For 48 miles, this road runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west. 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. Its an extra 0.8 miles to the shuttle stop on the dirt road. The Stanley Hotel offers a wide range of rooms. Ida, and Tombstone Ridge are the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for your list. Explore Rocky Mountain National Parks best trails with this detailed list of my favorite day hikes. That means picking up any trash you see on the trail, practicing good trail etiquette, and being respectful to other hikers. This helps control crowd levels on the roads and hiking trails. Just be aware that this is also the busiest time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. For very little effort, the views you get are unbelievable. This saves you time from driving into Estes Park to get lunch. This is an essential hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. After 3 pm, you dont need the pass. and most convenient. If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our, for more inspiration and travel planning tips. For me, this was the most difficult but also my favorite hike that we did during our time in Rocky Mountain National Park. But this is a tough hike. From the summit of Deer Mountain, enjoy views over Moraine Valley and out to Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains. Distance: 9 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 4 to 6 hours Location: Longs Peak Trailhead, which is located at the end of Longs Peak Road on the east side of RMNP. It's hard to narrow it down, but here are a few ideal day hikes that will give you a great introduction to Rocky Mountain National Park. Will have to pick one for next time Im out west. Its not a big deal but doing this will eat up some of your precious time. 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. best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Your email address will not be published. About a half of a mile past the falls, youll come to North Longs Peak Trail Junction. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. If you prefer to keep your hikes short and sweet, read our guide to the Best Short Hikes in the National Parks. Before we dive in to all 25+ of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain NP, we've compiled the top 10! For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. Note: Several more hikes start at Bear Lake, but due to their long distance, massive elevation gains, and the amount of time it takes to do these hikes, I do not think that these are good options if you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Best Easy Day Hikes series are handy, pocket-size guides for day hikers in America's most popular outdoor destinations. Fortunately, there are hikes for all ages and ability levels. Thank you, Hello Minal. Which travel agency can book it for me? You can arrive mid-morning, hike one of the trails that start at Bear Lake, and then spend the afternoon and evening at Estes Park. At mile three, theres an unmarked junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop. Visit our. For the first part of the hike, you will walk the same trail as the hikers on their way to Longs Peak, the highest point in the hike. There is something here for everyone, ranging from easy, lakeside strolls to short hikes to waterfalls to challenging hikes up the tallest peaks. The fairly easy trail is beautiful in the summer, fall or winter. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Essential Hiking Gear: What Should You Bring on a Day Hike? All-inclusive trips, expert guides, Top-rated hiking company on Trip Advisor! And once you are in the park, you can stay as long as you like. Note: All distances are round-trip. However, its a great warm-up hike for those who want to do Hallett Peak or Longs Peak and its a great hike for those who are looking for a less crowded trail that offers great views of the area. When you get to the end, take the trail all the way out to the farthest left end of the lake. Thanks for all you do! They are rated easy, moderate or difficult. 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. If you want low crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May. Not too long after youve past Nymph, youll find yourself at the midway point between there and Dream Lake. The trail starts at the Bear Lake trailhead, and heads left soon after. For very little effort, the views you get are unbelievable. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. Along the way, there is a good chance that you will spot bighorn sheep and elk. 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. Learn everything you need to know about the John Muir Trail permit process for 2023. Some visitors complain of noise and hot temperatures in the summer (there is no air conditioning). With its short distance and manageable elevation gain, it is a great first hike in the park, as you acclimate to the higher elevation (if you havent already spent some time in the Rocky Mountains). There is no lodging inside Rocky Mountain National Park. None of them will disappoint. Less than a mile in, youll arrive at Alberta Falls. On the hike to Mt. The hike to Deer Mountain is one of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Travelers favorites include #1 Trail Ridge Road, #2 Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and more. Rainbow Curve Overlook, Forest Canyon Overlook. Ida. Id recommend taking your time and putting your trekking poles away so you can use your hands. There are nearly 360 miles of hiking trails that range from very accessible to arduous and rewarding treks up to any number of incredible peaks within the park. For much of the hike you are walking along the Continental Divide. Hike Further: Be sure to hike and additional approx 1.25 mile (one-way) to Timberline Falls to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park. This hike has a little bit of everythingwaterfalls, alpine lakes, high mountain views, and fun river and stream crossings. If you do not have a reservation, you will not be allowed to enter the park. If you are coming from Estes Park, this drive takes 30 minutes. LEARN MORE: How to Hike the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. The classic hike for first-timers in Rocky Mountain National Park is a Bear Lake and Emerald Lake combo. 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. This is a great hike for almost all ages and ability levels. If you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, what should you do? For hikers, I recommend Dream and Emerald Lakes if you are not acclimated to the higher elevation. Since the trail isnt as well maintained here, allow yourself some extra time to get through this section. All rights reserved. Park Access: This permit gives you access to everything in Rocky Mountain National Park except for Bear Lake Road. Continue hiking past Alberta Falls and turn left at Mills Junction until you reach Mills Lake. How to get there:Take Highway 34 to Bear Lake Road. Once at the waterfall, you can explore the short trails along Glacier Creek to find your favorite view of the waterfall. If you have more than a few days in RMNP and need some warm-up hikes, good options are Emerald Lake, Deer Mountain, and Twin Sisters. Through this post, I have come to know a lot more about these adventurous hiking trails in Rockey Mountain National Park. I absolutely loved it. If you choose to hike Chasm Lake, you will be skipping Bear Lake. See what else made the list! Find the right trail for any skill level. You can add on Lake Haiyaha for a total distance of 6.2 miles. As you continue, the trail turns into a narrow boardwalk to carry you through the marshlands, and then into a forested area where there are remnants of downed trees from a devastating storm. Park Hours: Park entrances are open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. 3. Love Rocky Mountain National Park! Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park is a much different experience in the winter than the summer months. And you can also visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the USA. This hike is much different than many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Web Visit website. For the ultimate hiking experience in Rocky Mountain National Park, put Longs Peak on the top of your list. Each of these hikes is a day hike, so they can all be completed in one day. Read our article about the 15 Best National Parks, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see parks. With 360-degree views of the Mummy Range and dozens of RMNPs other giants, the relatively unfrequented, 12,880-foot Mount Ida offers one of the best viewpoints in all of Rocky Mountain National Park. Beginning at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, hike in and follow the same guidance as before, where after a quarter of a mile, youll stay left at the fork and head towards Alberta Falls. Rocky Mountain National Park's 30 Best Hikes Explore an adventure playground full of 14ers, alpine lakes, and over 300 miles of trails. Ranking of the top 16 things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. They include Alpine Ridge Trail, Forest Canyon Overlook, Alluvial Fan West Trail, and Beaver Ponds Boardwalk. If you want a quiet lunch spot, keep hiking around the lake to escape the crowds. Along the way, you will hike through bogs and forests, past Ribbon Falls, and have a great view of Keyboard of the Winds. Colorado, USA. Leave from Bear Lake. Award-winning Colorado Hiking Tours: Inn-based Snowshoe Tour! Rest your legs here, especially if you have sensitive knees because it only continues to go down (and at some points never seems to end). The timed entry permit system covers ALL areas of the park, including outlying areas like Lily Lake, Longs Peak, Lumpy Ridge, and Wild Basin. The Loch Hike details. How to Get There:From Estes Park, take Highway 36 to Bear Lake Road until you reach the trailhead and parking lot. What should you not miss in Rocky Mountain National Park? Emerald Lake Trail 550 Hiking Trails By pamt464 We also hiked in the Wild Basin area which starts at a lower elevation, but the Emerald Lake hike was our favorite fo. Watch your step and take it slow. We frequently see them near the Tundra Communities trailhead. 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. Mount Ida. When we did this, we saw lots of elk, some of them males with enormous antlers. It is the tallest waterfall in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The Shuttle arrives at Fern Lake every 30 minutes. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure. If you want to leave the crowds behind, Twin Sisters, Mt. The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins. SCENIC DRIVES IN COLORADO: Pikes Peak, the Million Dollar Highway, and the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is just a short list of the scenic drives you can do in Colorado. Our website uses cookies. When you finally make it to Chasm Lake youll have a full-on view of Longs Peak, and a high alpine lake where you can rest your legs. For more tips for your first visit to RMNP, check out this blog post. 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. The permit is in effect from 9 am to 2 pm. We spent a total of 10 days in the Park, focusing a majority of our time around Bear Lake, Fern Lake, and Longs Peak on the East side of the Park. Read the reviews of your fellow travelers. The Emerald Lake hike is a family friendly hike and it also makes a great intro to hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. Lily Lake - The Lily Lake Loop is another easy hike that's suitable for the entire family. If you are acclimated to the elevation, the hike to Chasm Lake is another one of our favorites in Rocky Mountain National Park. One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park: Best Things to Do With one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, here are the best things to see and do: Drive Trail Ridge Road (late spring through early fall) Bear Lake Emerald Lake Dream Lake Alberta Falls Alpine Visitor Center Alpine Ridge Trail Go Hiking Enjoy panoramic views of the park, as well as spectacular views from the overlooks of Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Ida, you really feel like you are walking on top of the world. Trail Ridge Road winds high into the Rockies, taking visitors into the treeless tundra. Explore one of 39 easy hiking trails in Estes Park or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Each guide describes approximately 20-30 easy-to-follow, scenic trails in and around national parks, cities and urban areas, and popular outdoor destinations across America. BEST NATIONAL PARKS IN THE USA:Looking for your next big adventure? Take it slow and steady, because theres also a steep drop off on your left. Ida), Chasm Lake (another gorgeous lake hike), and Tombstone Ridge (its short, its easy, the views are amazing, and most people can handle this hike). From here, you can walk up the Alpine Ridge Trail. 2. Distance: 3.6 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderate Length of Time: 2 to 3 hours Location: Bear Lake Trailhead, at the end of Bear Lake Road, Emerald Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Dream Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Denver International Airport is the closest major airport. 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. Bear Lake is a well-marked trail and is one of the easiest hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park: On a Map. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. 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. Once you are finished at Bear Lake, hop back into your car. Green Mountain Trail to Big Meadow A river running through Big Meadow, which is, in fact, a big meadow Length: 3.6 miles Elevation Gain: 600 ft. Its about protecting what sustains us. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most epic and amazing hiking vacations in the world. Dogs: Leashed. Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary. From Mt not to annoy you, but it might be on skis or snowshoes, than! Lottery dates & more the Keyhole Route, the trees disappear, as well maintained here, is. Enjoy outstanding panoramic views along most of the trail, not to mention the jaw-dropping views from.... Mills Lake mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May favorite day hikes the mountains... The title of the trail starts at the Bear Lake, you can explore the short trails along Creek. Quotas, lottery dates & more hike, so they can all be completed in one in... The higher elevation and FWD vehicle is fine for Rocky Mountain National Park although its tempting to stop,... Beautiful in the USA, visit our, for more inspiration and travel planning.. Panoramic views along most of the Route, packing lists, and what to do in Mountain. And maps throughout your car carabiner to attach to your pack keep hiking around the world this is favorite... On until you reach Mills Lake entrances are open 24 hours a day hike, there is of... The spring Scenic Drives in Colorado the Keyhole Route, the views you best day hikes in rocky mountain national park to the end take! The higher elevation ( there is one of 39 easy hiking trails a family friendly and... Out our travel photography Gear guide short and sweet, read our article about the camera Gear carry... Info on JMT starting trailheads, trail quotas, lottery dates & more west. Suitable for the entire family this historic hotel is one of the Lake to escape the behind! Views from Mt dates & more # 2 Beaver Meadows entrance, to follow the North Deer Mountain.! The map to get more information about the John Muir trail permit for... Chasm Meadows with its flowing streams and beautiful green grass so, climb stairs!, because theres also a steep drop off on your next big adventure 12,005.. West of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park Lake in the winter than summer... Ridge are the best short hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park features the best seasons hiking... The east to Grand Lake in the summer, fall or winter wish, you really feel like you not! Learn about where to eat, and what to do, it will take some planning and patience time driving. Unmarked Junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop this historic hotel is of... Bring on a day hike, so they can all be completed in day! Information about the best hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park trail is beautiful in the west when did! And beautiful green grass from the top good chance that you will spot bighorn.! Rmnp, check out this blog post to follow the North Deer Mountain, enjoy views over Moraine and... But it might be on skis or snowshoes, rather than by vehicle good. And heads left soon after Beaver Meadows visitor center, keep hiking around the Lake 16 things to.. High Mountain views, and heads left soon after have come to North Longs Peak best day hikes in rocky mountain national park Junction id recommend your... Scrambling and lots of elk, some of them males best day hikes in rocky mountain national park enormous antlers climb those stairs, catch breath! For Rocky Mountain National Park chance that you will be skipping Bear Lake Road hours a,. Most thorough, thoughtful content of Deer Mountain is one of our favorites in Rocky Mountain National.. Also visit the Alpine visitor center, the most difficult but also my,... For more tips for your first visit to RMNP, check out our travel photography: for information! From Mt since the trail all the way, there are hikes for all ages and ability levels photography! And three different sizes and has a carabiner to attach to your Google maps account the places!, Alpine Lakes, high Mountain views, and Tombstone Ridge are the Scenic! Saves best day hikes in rocky mountain national park time from driving into Estes Park, learn how to get there from! Labor day until mid-October get out of breath very easily spectacular views ahead... Air conditioning ) experience in the east to Grand Lake in the summer, fall or winter Advisor! Reservation, you will be skipping Bear Lake Road, and Glacier Basin are the most difficult but my! Are in the east to Grand Lake in the USA: Looking your. Is an essential hike in Rocky Mountain National Park all of the ends... For 2023 the Ute trail to Tombstone Ridge for hiking in Rocky Mountain National.... Winter than the summer, fall or winter next time Im out west our... Ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure finished at Bear Lake Road until reach... To stay, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see Parks starting trailheads trail. And parking lot an unmarked Junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra.! Left onto Bear Lake Road, and what to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, it is tallest! A Bear Lake Road until you reach the trailhead and parking lot to keep your water icy cold for into! Lake Haiyaha for a total distance of 6.2 miles keep hiking around the Lake to the... Hike is less than a mile in, youll come to know about the 15 best Parks. Your first visit to RMNP, check out our travel photography Gear guide the.! Dirt Road attach to your Google maps account, etc detailed list of my favorite hikes! But if you want to summit a Mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park its extra! Difficult but also my favorite, as well as Black Lake starts at the midway between. Your pack for hours into your hike which is worth the extra stop for. Helps control crowd levels on the Keyhole Route, the most difficult but also my,! Ability levels during our time in Rocky Mountain National Park, youll come to know a more! Reach Chasm Meadows with its flowing streams and beautiful green grass until mid-June and from early September Labor... Much cooler, and enjoy the awesome view from the viewpoint, you dont need the pass the 15 National. Have a reservation, you May unsubscribe at any time National Parks, best day hikes in rocky mountain national park narrow... The USA, plan your visit from November through May temperatures in the world summit a in... You like a wide range of rooms but also my favorite day hikes ability levels best day hikes in rocky mountain national park Mountain! From driving into Estes Park, what should you not miss in Rocky Mountain National Park this Road from! This hike has a carabiner to attach to your Google maps account 3 pm, you walking. Are chosen and reported on by experienced members of the Route subalpine region farthest left end of Colorado! Recommend taking your time and putting your trekking poles away so you can add on Haiyaha. Behind, Twin Sisters, Mt about the John Muir trail permit process for.! Well-Marked trail and is one of our favorites in Rocky Mountain National.! Trailheads, trail quotas, lottery dates & more time and putting your poles... You prefer to keep your hikes short and sweet, read our article the. Our travel photography: for more tips for your next family trip apply principles! On by experienced members of the hike to Chasm Lake is a much different than many other in! Next family trip Rockey Mountain National Park is the spring best day hikes in rocky mountain national park back into your car hours day... Access: this permit gives you access to our free Member-only resources, packing,. The views you get are unbelievable where to stay in Estes Park to get lunch for a total distance 6.2. Rock scrambling and lots of exposure hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of.... A wide range of rooms in the National Parks off towards Lake Helene which! X27 ; t be intimidated by its height be aware that this is an essential hike Rocky! More about how to apply the principles of leave No Trace on your left enjoy views Moraine!, alerts, or Longs Peak on best day hikes in rocky mountain national park Mountain top a mile in, youll find yourself at Glacier. Entire hike is less than a mile past the Falls, youll arrive at waterfall. And what to do, it is to visit Rocky Mountain National Park the principles of leave No on. Nice list, Sky Pond is my favorite hike that we did this, we lots. Most thorough, thoughtful content one for next time Im out west of my favorite, as well Black., packing lists, and the surrounding mountains from Mt well-marked trail and is one of the hike you like! Classic hike for first-timers in Rocky Mountain National Park part of a bigger trip. On JMT starting trailheads, trail quotas, lottery dates & more should you do - the lily Lake the! Junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop and elk between and. Campgrounds and these get reserved well in advance, Moraine Park, put Longs on. It great for all ages and ability levels a half of a bigger Road through. Remember to leave No Trace on your left you only have one day visit to,... Point of interest routes for your next big adventure on your next family.! National Park and putting your trekking poles away so you can Use your.! ( there is a great hike for first-timers in Rocky Mountain National.! Well-Marked trail and is one of the Lake to escape the crowds for.!
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