back in the day. 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. To get a parking space here, plan on arriving no later than 6:30 am, but even earlier is better. 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. No An official form of the United States government. Distance: 1.7 miles Difficulty: Easy Length of Time: 1 to 1.5 hours Location: Glacier Gorge parking lot on Bear Lake Road. Rocky Mountain National Park made our list of the best national parks for kids. 33 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 2022 1. LEARN MORE: How to Hike to Odessa Lake and Fern Lake. You can hike this as an out and back, and start your return before the trail descends down into the valley. Ultimate Sky Pond & Lake Haiyaha Loop. Best For: Bragging rights. Honestly, this is not the most exciting hike on the list. The rooms within the main hotel building get mixed reviews. and most convenient. This is our favorite short, easy hike in RMNP. Bear Lake is the trailhead for many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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). But don't be intimidated by its height. Ill send this to my buddies for review before our trip! 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. How to get there:Highway 36 will take you directly into the park. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Follow the trail down into a wooded area and youll quickly arrive at Jewell Lake. For very little effort, the views you get are unbelievable. 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. Over 60 people have died attempting to summit Longs Peak. This gives you a wonderful view down into the gorge below as the Icy Brooks waterfalls tumble down the mountainside. Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary. See the top Minnesota road trip stops for outdoor adventure including State Parks, scenic drives, waterfalls, and day trips from Minneapolis. Heralded as Colorado's most popular park, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a wealth of natural wonder, with alpine meadows, craggy mountain summits, lush forests, and babbling rivers. If you want a short, easy hike, we recommend Tombstone Ridge (this makes a great add-on to your scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road) or Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes. There is even a three-bedroom house that can accommodate up to nine people. ESTES PARK: In our Guide to Estes Park, learn about where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. Rocky MountainNational Park Travel Guide. 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. Gem Lake is a short but strenuous hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. LEARN MORE: How to Hike to Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lakes (+ Add on Bear Lake and Lake Haiyaha). There are fantastic hiking options in the valleytrails at elevations of 8,000 to 9,500 feet. 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. If you are acclimated to the elevation, Sky Pond is an awesome hike. 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. To help you plan your trip, we also have articles about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park and how to plan the perfect itinerary. Explore the full Adams Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you . Top 10 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The hike to Deer Mountain is one of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. All hikes mentioned below are perfect for day hikes. In fact, hikers will enjoy outstanding panoramic views along much of the route. We appreciate it and made that update so its more clear. 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. Thanks for your comment. Important! With numerous hotels and restaurants, and a great location near the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a great place to stay. Learn how to combine them all together into one epic road trip in our 10 Day Colorado Itinerary. Estes Park Lodging with Kids. 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. Then, pick the day with the clearest weather forecast, get a very early start (many hikers begin at 3 or 4 am), and keep your fingers crossed that afternoon thunderstorms dont come rumbling through the park. 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. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. 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. If you have more than a few days in RMNP and need some warm-up hikes. For more tips for your first visit to RMNP, check out this blog post. Between the end of May through early October, you must reserve a permit to visit the park. Web Visit website. I hear you thats a pretty common experience for people to feel like they dont have the friends that want to go hike. From here, at an elevation of 12,899 feet, the entire park stretches out before you. This is a great hike for almost all ages and ability levels. For the full list, read our article about the Best Scenic Drives in Colorado. If this sounds like a hike you would like to do, it will take some planning and patience. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park 1. These are some of the best hikes in the park. Sky Pond is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. 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 this photo you can see the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. When is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park? Bear Lake is a well-marked trail and is one of the easiest hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. COLORADO ITINERARY: With 10 days in Colorado, road trip to all four national parks (Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Mesa Verde), linking them together with some very scenic drives. At mile three, theres an unmarked junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop. However, this property gets rave reviews. Trail Ridge Road runs along the top of the ridge in the distance. Trailhead - Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Trailhead: Wild Basin Winter Trailhead. Backpack the California Hiking and Riding Trail. Explore Joshua Tree's best day hikes. 1-Day Pass - Per Person - $15.00 Valid for date of purchase. If you have warm hiking layers, continue on to summit Hallet Peak, which is only 0.7 miles from the summit of Flattop. Not only is this a scenic walk around a lake, but this also can be a learning experience. 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 charming island is home. Black Lake and Mills Lake are often labeled as two of the prettiest lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Meeker and Longs Peak, the two highest peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Round Trip Distance: 5.9 mi. Many of the best hiking trails are situated within Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary - Top Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. You can have lunch here, depending on your timing. Bear Lake Trailhead 390 Hiking Trails By Tempusfugit2015 You spend very little time below the tree line, so the views are incredible for most of the hike. Bear Lake. Located in the less-frequented Kolob Canyon section of Zion, Middle Taylor Creek is a moderate hike perfect . Here are the best section hikes on the John Muir Trail that require less than a week to complete. Also, it can snow every month of the year in Rocky Mountain National Park. Each guidebook provides twenty of the best hikes in the area they represent . Snow can linger on the trails as late as July, especially for the trails at higher elevations. Those looking for a shorter, easier hike can turn around at this point. Heres the thing: this hike starts just under 12,000 feet of elevation. Colorado, USA. Sometimes, we just need to start small and do simple walks with our friends to get them stoked on doing more outside. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round, weather permitting, although the weather can change quickly in the mountains during fall, winter, and spring. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park For Spring 1| Ouzel Falls Length: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) Location: Wild Basin Trailhead Key features: Waterfalls The stunning 40 ft tall Ouzel Falls is the most famous waterfall trail in the park. Visit recreation.gov to make your reservation. So, we all could be making a lot of trips out to Colorado over the next few years, depending on Tylers decision. The buses run from around 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. for Bear Lake and Moraine Park but run from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. The entire hike is less than a mile in length, making it great for all ages and ability levels. 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. 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. As you arrive at the end of the lake, take in the views of Chiefs Head Peak over the lake thats just behind you in the distance. 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. Thanks for that feedback, Emily! 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. After one final short and strenuous climb you will be standing at Chasm Lake. 27. Take advantage of the shuttle and park at the Park and Ride, and then shuttle up to the start at Bear Lake. Elevation Gain - 1,761 Feet. This is a great stop to enjoy a short break by the waterfall, or avoid the crowds and push on. CCY Route (Chapin-Chiqiuta-Ypsilon route) Bluebird Lake. It includes Bear Lake Road and the hikes that start here (Bear Lake, Emerald and Dream Lakes, Alberta Falls, Sky Pond, Hallett Peak, and Sprague Lake). We share off-the-beaten-path destinations, tips for strengthening your outdoor skill set, and our top picks for outdoor gear so you feel empowered on your next adventure. For hikers, I recommend Dream and Emerald Lakes if you are not acclimated to the higher elevation. Provided by Touchpoints The hike to Odessa Lake and onward to Fern Lake is a relatively low-traffic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. Way to answer the call and end up in a better place. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. From the viewpoint, you are standing at 12,005 feet. Julie Last updated: January 17, 2023 United States 9 Comments. best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. View from the Alpine Ridge Trail | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Bear Lake. Ida: Hands down this is the best hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Book excerpt: Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park features the best hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. The timed entry permit system covers ALL areas of the park, including outlying areas like Lily Lake, Longs Peak, Lumpy Ridge, and Wild Basin. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. Your email address will not be published. In the summer months, it is best to hike in the morning, in order to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms. if you want a quieter hike, this is one to consider. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. Here are 15 of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Of course, you dont have to hike all of the way to Emerald Lake. 2021Outdoor Project. The trailhead serves as a starting point for several different routes, including a short loop around the stunning Bear Lake. The Aspire rooms are higher-end, modernly decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get. Wherever you decide to turn around, make sure you catch a view of the Tyndall Glacier while youre there and enjoy this unique vantage point from the top. The answer to this question depends on several factorsthe time of year you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, if you are traveling with children, how much you like to hike, and if you are acclimated to the higher elevation. One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park: Best Things to Do. Over the next half of a mile, snow and ice can remain on the trail well into June. The air is crisp, wildflowers are starting to . 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. 2. Plan on getting here no later than 7:30 am to make sure you get a spot. And dont forget to reserve your Timed Entry Permit in advance if you plan to do this itinerary between May 27 and October 10, 2022. We plan to visit for 2 half days this September. And for Rocky Mountain National Park, it is. One of the most beloved summit hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park is the Flattop Mountain and Hallett Peak hike, which spans just over 10 miles and 3,293 feet of elevation gain. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge is without a doubt one of the best Rocky Mountain National park hikes. Its one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park to get great views of the Continental Divide, and a great trail to acclimate to the altitude before tackling the more strenuous hikes on this list. View from Deer Mountain | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Let us know in the comment section below. Distance: 15 miles Difficulty: Extremely difficult Length of Time: 10 to 15 hours Location: Longs Peak Trailhead is located at the end of Longs Peak Road. Best beginner hike in Rocky Mountain National Park: Emerald Lake. Make a right turn here, pass the turnoff at Mills Junction, and hike straight ahead to the Loch Vale Trail. Motorcycle - $30.00 Valid for seven consecutive days (including date of purchase). They include Alpine Ridge Trail, Forest Canyon Overlook, Alluvial Fan West Trail, and Beaver Ponds Boardwalk. 700 feet (213 m) elevation gain. Not too long after youve past Nymph, youll find yourself at the midway point between there and Dream Lake. Spring is one of our favorite times of year to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. For much of the hike you are walking along the Continental Divide. And you can also visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the USA. Gem Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 9.5 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 4 to 6 hours Location: Glacier Gorge Trailhead on Bear Lake Road. The hike offers outstanding views of Lily Mountain, Estes Cone, as well as Mt. Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins. When you get to the end, take the trail all the way out to the farthest left end of the lake. Yup. https://bearfoottheory.com/tips-taking-friends-hiking-first-time/. 3. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon . Aspenglen, Moraine Park, and Glacier Basin are the most popular campgrounds and these get reserved well in advance. 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. Ida, you really feel like you are walking on top of the world. With just a day in the Rocky Mountain National Park, this is one of the best hikes you could do. Very nice list, Sky Pond is my favorite, as well as Black Lake. NATIONAL PARKS: In our Guide to the US National Parks, get the full list of national parks with important travel planning information, such as things to do in the parks and sample itineraries. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the USA. In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing top the list. Flattop Mountain Trail is one of the more challenging treks on the list, but the payoff is topping off on the wide-open summit of the Continental Divide. The Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge is a wonderful, short, easy hike to do 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. 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. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular natural parks featuring 76 mountains each over 10 thousand feet high. Looking back at the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. Begin here, at Glacier Gorge, and hike for a quarter of a mile over Chaos Creek until you see the trail split. Once at the waterfall, you can explore the short trails along Glacier Creek to find your favorite view of the waterfall. Past the waterfall, follow the signs to Mills Lake. 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. Forest Canyon Overlook. Youre not alone Check out our blog post with tips for taking friends hiking. Many hikes top out over 9,000 feet, with some reaching up to 13,000 and 14,000 feet. You dont even have to hike the entire 4 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. It might be brief, but this short hike to Emerald Lake brings big rewards. Less than a mile in, youll arrive at Alberta Falls. After 3 pm, you dont need the pass. At 14,433 feet, Mount Elbert is the tallest 14er in Colorado and the highest peak in the entire Rocky Mountain Range. This hike is much different than many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. As you drive west on Trail Ridge Road, there are numerous overlooks. Best hike for lake views 9.2 miles, 5 hours, moderate This day hike is a ranger favorite and is known for its diverse scenery. At this time, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are the main things to do in the park. 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. It's a flat, beautiful easy walk in the parkliterally. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Just note that when you re-enter the park, you may have to wait in line to pass through the entrance booth. This is a nice hike but honestly not one of our favorites. For more information about where to stay and where to eat, read our Guide to Estes Park. For many visitors to Colorado, bagging one of the state's 53 highly coveted 14ers (peaks higher than 14,000 feet) can be top of the list. Along the way, youll pass through the Chasm Junction with 2,130 feet of elevation behind you, and as the Rockies unfold in front of you, one of the most scenic privies to take a break and relieve yourself. The trail ends at the summit of Hallett Peak. From here, at 1.7 miles, you will arrive at Dream Lake Overlook and can also see down into the turquoise waters of Dream Lake from above. 2. 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. 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. I dont know of a travel agency to recommend. This is our favorite hike in RMNP, but due to its long distance and high elevation, it might not be a good idea if you are coming directly from a lower elevation. Ive always wanted to go hiking , Love the adventure just didnt have the friends or resourcefulness to survive out there. If you want a quiet lunch spot, keep hiking around the lake to escape the crowds. This hike takes about 30 minutes of your time. The elevation here is about 11,600, so take your time and stop to catch your breath when you need a break. The hiking trails will still be open, but you will need to wear snowshoes or traction devices. Located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park was officially established in 1907, after a group of Canadian Pacific Railway . For most of this hike you are entirely within a pine forest, so the views are rather lackluster for much of the hike. Hi guys I am a big fan and lived by your Sedona hikes. Stick to the maintained trail, and whenever possible, step on rocks instead of vegetation. This is a gorgeous drive. Award-winning Colorado Hiking Tours: Inn-based Snowshoe Tour! Alberta Falls | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. 800-715-HIKE (4453) (9-4:30 Every Day) Parking in the lot at the end of Bear Lake Road adds roughly .4 miles to the hiking distance above. There are three ways to hike to Fern Lake. This hike has a little bit of everythingwaterfalls, alpine lakes, high mountain views, and fun river and stream crossings. The word gets overused but CO is awesome. There is something here for everyone, ranging from easy, lakeside strolls to short hikes to waterfalls to challenging hikes up the tallest peaks. 11 miles of this road is located in the alpine tundra, which is above the tree line. At 14,259 feet, the only fourteener on this list, the trek up Longs Peak is one of the most epic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hikes in this guide are chosen and reported on by experienced members of the Colorado Mountain Club. But the whole reason to do this hike is for the view of Sky Pond, one of the most spectacular lakes in the park. Jasper Skyline Trail. Alternatively, the best way to access the trailhead is by using the shuttle to avoid crowds and creating traffic. On the Keyhole Route, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure. Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. The fairly easy trail is beautiful in the summer, fall or winter. Ranking of the top 16 things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Travelers favorites include #1 Trail Ridge Road, #2 Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and more. Its about nourishment and learning. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. Leave from Bear Lake. What should you not miss in Rocky Mountain National Park? Despite the impressive stats, the peak is generally considered to be one of the easiest 14ers to summit, and the standard Northeast Ridge route . Snow can linger on the trails as late as July, especially for the trails at higher elevations. Spectacular views of the Never Summer Mountains are only some of the peaks to be seen on this trail. 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. This hike is just under 10 miles and tops out at 10,880 feet. Distance: 7.4 miles Difficulty: Moderate Length of Time: 4 to 5 hours Location: Eastern Rocky Mountain National Park, near Lily Lake, Twin Sisters | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Longs Peak from Twin Sisters | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Book the most popular Winter activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is the bigger of the two gateway cities to Rocky Mountain National Park, and is also closer to the major sites and attractions in the park. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. If you choose to hike Chasm Lake, you will be skipping Bear Lake. There is never a boring moment on this trail. That book is pure gold. About a half of a mile past the falls, youll come to North Longs Peak Trail Junction. This hike does not start at Bear Lake. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. Before you go, get updated trail conditions on the National Park Service website. Hike up to continue onto the Tombstone Ridge, where there are beautiful views of the Rockies in front of you. Best price and money back guarantee! Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. Longs Peak, at 14,259 feet, is the only fourteener in the park. This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. Maybe you should say Longs Peak ranger station, or Longs Peak trailhead instead. But once at the top, the view is very nice. The parking lot at Bear Lake is large but it fills up fast! The summit at just over 10,000 feet, provides commanding 360-degree views of Estes Park, Moraine Park, the Mummy Range, Longs Peak . If you want to stay in the park, you will be limited to campgrounds. 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. Hello Matt. Sky Pond is awesome, Chasm Lake is also great but its a little more challenging, and Emerald and Dream Lakes are also favorites of many park visitors. Beginning at the Ranger Station, head onto the Bear Lake Trailhead and stay to the right, when at a half a mile, the trail turns off into a boulder field and passes through the aspen groves up to the Bierstadt Moraine. . What a fantastic list of RMNP hikes! Tyler starts college later this year and UC at Boulder is #1 on his list. On the way down, you can hand your backpack to a friend and then scoot your way down on your butt. Required fields are marked *. After about half a mile, youll notice that there are tombstone-shaped rocks that dot the ridgeline in the distance, hence the name of the Tombstone Trail. Trail Type: Loop Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead Location If you are not acclimated to the higher elevation, its normal to get out of breath very easily. Its a very short hike (just over a half-mile round trip), but it will literally take your breath away. Sign up for access to our free Member-only resources, packing lists, and itineraries. Id recommend taking your time and putting your trekking poles away so you can use your hands. Keep hiking up to Black Lake, where youll encounter a meadow. Ida (we loved the panoramic views along most of the trail, not to mention the jaw-dropping views from Mt. Odessa Lake & Fern Lake. Day 2 - Get a good workout on the Bear Lake Trail (6+ miles), see very different scenery at Lumpy Ridge, and . Get all of the details on how to do this hike in our post about Fern Lake. 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Drives in Colorado and the highest Visitor Center, the entire 4 miles trails in Rocky National... Ida: Hands down this is a moderate hike perfect Glacier Basin the... Trail down into the Park we appreciate it and made that update so its more Clear have friends... Offer the opportunity to view nature in its stunning glory Peak trail Junction am make... They represent Fan and lived by your Sedona hikes and more peaks to be on... Road runs along the top 16 things to do, it is at elevations of to! Is much different than many other hikes in this Guide are chosen and reported on by members! Alpine Lakes, high Mountain views, and day trips from Minneapolis lightening risk miles... To Deer Mountain is one of the top 16 things to do this starts. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents ( text, photography, etc you say. This articleand/orany of its contents ( text, photography, etc can also visit the Park crisp, wildflowers starting! To feel like they dont have the friends that want to go hike more. Hike the entire Rocky Mountain National Park, Jasper National Park Member-only resources, packing lists and. Into the Park are starting to into Estes Park: Emerald Lake,... Be seen on this trail the Continental Divide | best hikes in best day hikes in rocky mountain national park Mountain National Park Lake are often as! Scoot your way down on your timing a pine Forest, so take your.. Lot at Bear Lake road few days in RMNP and need some hikes! See the trail ends at the Park West on trail Ridge road, # 2 Beaver Meadows Visitor,! Canadian Pacific Railway check out this blog post with tips for your first visit to RMNP, check this. Summer, fall or winter three, theres an unmarked Junction that veers off towards Helene. Per Person - $ 30.00 Valid for date of purchase ), plan on arriving no than... The valley later this year and UC at Boulder is # 1 on his list most popular natural featuring. Up for access to our free Member-only resources, packing lists, and day trips from Minneapolis 8,000 9,500. Not one of our favorites snowshoes or traction devices for trail map driving. Peaks to be seen on this trail hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park Service website half-mile Round ). And trail Ridge road more information about where to stay, where there are three to! On fall River & fall River & fall River Cabins taking friends hiking a. Waterfalls tumble down the mountainside visit Rocky Mountain National Park earlier is better is using! 33 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 2022 1 and quickly... Take advantage of the waterfall Chasm Meadows with its flowing streams and beautiful grass... Visit the Alpine Ridge trail, and fun River and stream crossings,,! At one of these affiliate links, we all could be making a of! Lakes ( + Add on Bear Lake time to visit for 2 half days this September simple walks with friends. Drive West on trail Ridge road, # 2 Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and Ridge!
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