This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. The park has gotten so popular that in 2020 a timed entry system was put into effect. Nymph, Dream, & Emerald Lakes. I have done several of them, and agree with everything you have written about them. Looking back at the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. If this is your first day at RMNP, and one of your first days in Colorado, be prepared to take a few breaks. Best price and money back guarantee! This is a great hike for newbie hikers who want to summit a mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. Provided by Touchpoints That book is pure gold. Denver International Airport is the closest major airport. How to Get There:From Estes Park, take Highway 36 to Bear Lake Road until you reach the trailhead and parking lot. You also have the option to add on a fifth lake, Lake Haiyaha, making this hike a total of 6.2 miles. Start your trip off right, with a hike from the Bear Lake trailhead at the end of Bear Lake Road. Trail Ridge Road runs along the top of the ridge in the distance. It is located just outside of Estes Park, on the south side, an excellent location for driving into the park. It is the tallest waterfall in Rocky Mountain National Park. Stop at the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the USA. From the viewpoint, you are standing at 12,005 feet. Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary. On our most recent visit we stayed in The Residences at #402 and it was wonderful. You need to stay hydrated on the trail, and being prepared is a necessity. And you can also visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the USA. Not only are the photos amazing, but the trail descriptions are spot on and the way the book is organized makes it very easy to find a hike thats right for you. 1. Keep hiking until you reach Timberline Pass, at the two-mile mark. From here, at an elevation of 12,899 feet, the entire park stretches out before you. During my trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, our goal was to hike as much as possible and to experience the amazing scenery and wildlife that this place has to offer. The Best Easy Day Hikes series are handy, pocket-size guides for day hikers in America's most popular outdoor destinations. 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. It's well worth making the effort to get here, as the trail passes through some spectacular scenery, traversing a dense pine forest and passing by the lovely Ouzel Falls, before finally reaching Bluebird Lake. Begin at the Ute Crossing Trailhead, where the terrain is rocky and the flora and fauna of the tundra ecosystems are fragile. The official National Park Service website lists when the permits become available and has more information about the permits. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Each guidebook provides twenty of the best hikes in the area they represent . The Stanley Hotel. During the 15+ miles of hiking, you will ascend more that 5,000 feet. Chasm Lake sits at 11,760 feet and puts you right at the base of Longs Peak, RMNPs tallest mountain. I dont know of a travel agency to recommend. Mount Ida. Odessa Lake to Lake Helene Thru Hike. If you are looking for a short, easy hike, How to Hike the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge, How to Hike to Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lakes (+ Add on Bear Lake and Lake Haiyaha), panoramic views of Longs Peak and Estes Park, How to Hike the Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida. 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. All rights reserved. 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. The views from the summit are simply epic. Ive always wanted to go hiking , Love the adventure just didnt have the friends or resourcefulness to survive out there. If you want to avoid the crowds, begin in the early morning as early as sunrise to have the best experience and the best lighting. Once at the waterfall, you can explore the short trails along Glacier Creek to find your favorite view of the waterfall. evolving backdrop of beautiful pine forests into the aspen groves, so be aware that due to its popularity it can get crowded. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. How to get there:Highway 36 will take you directly into the park. You mention some hikes starting at the ranger station. 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. Best for: Historic cabins and quiet trails. I also purchased the National Geographic Rocky Mountain National Park hiking map. Park Access: This permit gives you access to everything in Rocky Mountain National Park except for Bear Lake Road. Finally, always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as ultraviolet light is very strong in the mountains. 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. The Bear Lake trail is handicap accessible and offers something for everyone. Keep hiking up to Black Lake, where youll encounter a meadow. During the remainder of the year it is closed due to snow. Through this post, I have come to know a lot more about these adventurous hiking trails in Rockey Mountain National Park. Features a wide variety of hikes, from family-and wheelchair-friendly to challenging and strenuous options for hardier trekkers. 3. Over the next half of a mile, snow and ice can remain on the trail well into June. Alberta Falls | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Glass Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Sky Pond | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Ultimate Sky Pond & Lake Haiyaha Loop. 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. Alternatively, the best way to access the trailhead is by using the shuttle to avoid crowds and creating traffic. Our website uses cookies. 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. The next morning we plan on taking a hike on Bear Lake and would need the Park Access+. The word gets overused but CO is awesome. Before you go, get updated trail conditions on the National Park Service website. Plus, this is a lesser known hike, so the trail gets a lower number of hikers than other hikes on this list. Are we only allowed to be on the trail ridge road until 3? As you get closer to the visitor center, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. This is a wonderful hike to add onto your drive along Trail Ridge Road, and from the trailhead, it is just a 15-minute drive to the Alpine Visitor Center. There will also be three amazing lakes. The wildlife here is abundant and commonly spotted, and there is a spectacular view around every corner. This gives you a wonderful view down into the gorge below as the Icy Brooks waterfalls tumble down the mountainside. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Its indeed the rocky mountain, I never been to hiking over mountains, usually in a forest but definitely it worth trying the experience, what would be your suggestion? The trailhead serves as a starting point for several different routes, including a short loop around the stunning Bear Lake. 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. Maybe you should say Longs Peak ranger station, or Longs Peak trailhead instead. Ida on day 3. The fairly easy trail is beautiful in the summer, fall or winter. Please note: From May 27-October 10, 2022, RMNP will require timed reservations to enter, which you can purchase here. Thanks for that feedback, Emily! It might be brief, but this short hike to Emerald Lake brings big rewards. Enjoy panoramic views of the park, as well as spectacular views from the overlooks of Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Pause here to layer on an insulated jacket or windbreaker before entering into the exposed tundra ahead. After one final short and strenuous climb you will be standing at Chasm Lake. 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. As you ascend higher, the trees disappear, as you enter the subalpine region. Looking for the best hiking trails in Estes Park? How to get there:Take Highway 34 into the park and turn right onto Trail Ridge Road to the trailhead parking lot. Here you'll pass more lakes, waterfalls, aspen groves and elk-inhabited meadows. Do a Hike Near Bear Lake. 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. Meanwhile, Kara and I hiked Bear, Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes. 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). There will be people. Its about nourishment and learning. Id recommend taking your time and putting your trekking poles away so you can use your hands. What a fantastic list of RMNP hikes! Each daily reservation costs $2 per vehicle, which is in addition to the $25 daily entrance fee or $35 weekly entrance fee per vehicle. 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. There is something here for everyone, ranging from easy, lakeside strolls to short hikes to waterfalls to challenging hikes up the tallest peaks. 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. Sign up for access to our free Member-only resources, packing lists, and itineraries. 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. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? Maligne Canyon Ice Walk . Let us know in the comment section below. Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. 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. Its best to hike in the morning and to be below the tree line by 1 pm. Take it slow and steady, because theres also a steep drop off on your left. I think it is better to drive Trail Ridge Road in the afternoon than visit Bear Lake. Elevation Gain: 1,062' Max Elevation: 10,210' Winter Skill Level: Beginner Why it rocks. Cheers, Julie. You will get occasional glimpses of Longs Peak early on during the hike, but for the most part, you will have to wait until you reach the summit for the best views. Views of Peacock Pond with the massive, rocky mountains that form the backdrop, waterfalls, and the chance to see wildlife, almost gave us a sense of dj vu, like we were back in Glacier National Park again. 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. 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. Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Round Trip Distance: 5.9 mi. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY: For more information about the camera gear we carry, check out our Travel Photography Gear Guide. After that date, it only runs during the weekends through October 20. This is a great hike for almost all ages and ability levels. If this sounds like a hike you would like to do, it will take some planning and patience. Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park. To get here, take Highway 7 south from Estes Park. View from Deer Mountain | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National 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. 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). The timed entry permit system covers ALL areas of the park, including outlying areas like Lily Lake, Longs Peak, Lumpy Ridge, and Wild Basin. 3. The official website for RMNP has up-to-date news on trail conditions, so take a look before you head out. Snow can linger on the trails as late as July, especially for the trails at higher elevations. What a great place to live! Ranking of the top 16 things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Essential Hiking Gear: What Should You Bring on a Day Hike? Bluebird Lake Hike: This lovely day hike is located in the lesser-visited Wild Basin area of the Rocky Mountain National Park. View from the Alpine Ridge Trail | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Loch, Rocky Mountain National Park Hike to the Loch Selecting that perfect Rocky Mountain National Park must see day hike can be challenging! 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 have more than a few days in RMNP and need some warm-up hikes, good options are Emerald Lake, Deer Mountain, and Twin Sisters. Wildland Trekking offers trips with the best of Rocky Mountain: waterfalls, mountains, views, wildlife, solitude, adventure and fascinating natural and cultural interpretation. Thanks for your comment. 11. For a big chunk of the year Trail Ridge Road is closed (from mid-autumn through late spring), making part of the park inaccessible, at least by car. 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. This challenging trail is a fantastic way to get panoramic park views without attempting something quite as hard as Longs Peak. If we plan on leaving Denver around 11 and traveling the Trail Ridge road would we only need the regular park pass? Travelers favorites include #1 Trail Ridge Road, #2 Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and more. 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. Always pack rain gear and be alert, even on a clear day. 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. Julie Last updated: February 23, 2023 United States 8 Comments. If you prefer to keep your hikes short and sweet, read our guide to the Best Short Hikes in the National Parks. Reservations are made online on the recreation.gov website. This is my favorite easy day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park and the one I often bring out-of-town friends on. Visit our. 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. Hi Deanna, thank you so much for pointing that out and for being here! During this time, you get to enjoy panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park. CALYPSO CASCADES. It can be very windy and cold here, and in true Rocky Mountain fashion, the weather can turn without much warning. This is also a great place to stop for lunch, and a popular one, too. Before our trip, I purchased The Essential Guide to Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park by Erik Stensland. Have you hiked this?. Trail Ridge Road winds high into the Rockies, taking visitors into the treeless tundra. If you have more than a few days in RMNP and need some warm-up hikes. The Shuttle arrives at Fern Lake every 30 minutes. The ever changing views and trail conditions really keep this hike interesting. 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. . The best path up the scramble is to follow the crushed and broken rocks, indicating a footpath worn in by previous hikers. Hallett Peak is a good warm-up hike for those who plan to summit Longs Peak. Nymph and Dream Lakes are beautiful, so you will have a wonderful hike if you choose to turn around at Dream Lake. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. At roughly three miles into the hike, you will reach Mills Lake. This is another great spot to take a break and appreciate the views before heading on just remember not to break trail to protect the alpine vegetation. Phone +1 970-586-1206. 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. A vacuum style bottle, like this one from Day 1 Fitness can keep your water icy cold for hours into your hike. Trail Type: Loop Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead Location Mt. 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. In July, we hiked through a snowstorm on the way back from Sky Pond. If you are not acclimated to the higher elevation, its normal to get out of breath very easily. From here, you can walk up the Alpine Ridge Trail. Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved through road, not only in Colorado, but also in the entire US national park system. 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. It starts on the east side of the park, on Highway 7 south of Estes Park. Hello Matt. 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. A well-graded trail circles around the lake. The view from Alpine Ridge Trail. The Aspire rooms are higher-end, modernly decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get. 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. 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. The Emerald Lake hike is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are three ways to hike to Fern Lake. There is no lodging inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Happy hiking! Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The entire hike is less than a mile in length, making it great for all ages and ability levels. Here, we found a nice place to sit below the outlet of Sky Pond to enjoy lunch with a view. Get updates on trail closures and park conditions on the National Park Service website. To get to Sky Pond, you will rock scramble up a waterfall, which can be refreshing when the weather is warm and downright cold in chilly conditions. To get a parking space here, plan on arriving no later than 6:30 am, but even earlier is better. Spend several days in the park, hiking the other trails, to acclimate yourself to the higher elevation. Note: if you plan to hike Sky Pond, it is better to park at the Glacier Gorge parking lot, which is also on Bear Lake Road. It also makes a nice acclimatization hike if you just arrived in Colorado and want to warm up your legs and cardio system, before tackling hikes like Chasm Lake, Flattop Mountain, or Mt. 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. On the hike to Mt. 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. Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. You'll climb up to the treeline and an alpine lake before dropping back down through fields of scree into a forested valley. Learn more about the shuttle here. Bear Lake is a beautiful lake that is tucked away in the Rocky Mountains. The park is much less crowded at this time, but Trail Ridge Road is not open and many, if not all, of the hiking trails can be snow covered. The trail starts at the Bear Lake trailhead, and heads left soon after. When is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park? From Bear Lake Road, turn left onto Highway 36 and continue on to Trail Ridge Road. Dont worry, its just a couple of moves and there are good handholds. Distance: 9.5 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 4 to 6 hours Location: Glacier Gorge Trailhead on Bear Lake Road. The hike to Deer Mountain is one of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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