The Best Hiking Trails in the Rocky mountains

The Rocky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places to explore! However, with hundreds of trails to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones to choose for your next outdoor adventure.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. From easy strolls to challenging summits, these trails offer something for everyone. So grab your hiking boots and prepare for an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America.

Things to Know Before You Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

Entrance Fees

The entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park is $30 per vehicle, which includes all passengers. If you plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park multiple times throughout the year, an annual pass can be purchased for $70. This pass allows unlimited entry into the park for one year from the date of purchase.

As an alternative, consider purchasing “America – the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass” which is the ideal solution for anyone who loves spending time in nature. With this pass, you’ll be able to visit any of the 2,000+ federal recreation sites with no additional entrance fees. You can also enjoy discounts on camping fees and other activities at select locations. “America – the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass” is available to everyone – including international visitors.

Are Pets Allowed In The Rocky Mountain National Park?

Pets are prohibited on all trails within The Rocky Mountain National Park. However, they are allowed in parking areas, along paved roads, campgrounds and in picnic areas – as long as they remain leashed at all times.

If you’re looking for a place to take your pup for a hike, there are plenty of dog friendly trails outside of the park.

• Estes Park is a great option for those looking for pet-friendly activities.
• The Lily Mountain Trail is just outside the park in the Roosevelt National Forest and offers stunning views of Longs Peak and Estes Valley.

For more pet-friendly hiking trails in the region, please visit the the Rocky Mountain National Park website.

Cell Service

Cell Service is often unreliable in the park, yet you can find some signal at Paradise and Sunrise.

Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

The best time to visit this majestic park is during the late spring and early fall months. During these times, the temperatures are moderate and the park is at its most beautiful.

The late spring (May through June) offers visitors a chance to escape the heat of summer without sacrificing the beautiful scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors can see lush forests and wildflowers in bloom throughout this time period. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and all other outdoor activities.

The early fall (September through October) continues to provide visitors with a pleasant climate while still delivering on spectacular views of the park. The leaves begin to change colors as they become vibrant hues of red, orange and yellow; plus, visitors can often spot wildlife like elk frolicking in the meadows or bald eagles soaring overhead. The average temperature during this time is about 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it great for sightseeing and experiencing nature’s beauty.

Weekends throughout summer and autumn tend to be busier, so if you’re looking for solitude, try visiting during weekdays or just before or after peak season.

No matter when you decide to go, be sure to check the park’s website for any closures or restrictions. You should also plan ahead by checking the forecast and packing appropriate clothing and gear for your activities.

Before you embark on your journey, check out the weather on the National Weather Service

Rocky Mountain Reservation System

Due to unprecedented demand, Rocky Mountain National Park has implemented a timed-entry system in order to manage the number of guests entering.

If you plan to visit the park between May 28 and October 11, a Timed Entry Ticket must be obtained and an entry fee must be paid. All regular passes are accepted as payment for this date range! From October 12 through May 27, however, these rules no longer apply — you can enter the park without a reservation at any time.

When you reserve your Timed Entry Ticket via the online system, two types of permits will be available for selection:

The option ‘Park Access with Bear Lake Road‘, grants you access to the renowned Bear Lake Road as well as the rest of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The option ‘Park Access, No Bear Lake Road‘, grants everything the park has to offer except for the Bear Lake Road corridor. If you would like further details on this system, please visit the National Park Service’s Timed Entry page.

The Best Hiking Trails in the Rocky Mountains National Park

Emerald Lake Trail

• Length: 3.5-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy

The Emerald Lake day hike is an easy hike yet rewarding experience that usually takes about three hours. Starting from the Bear Lake Trailhead on Bear Lake Road, you will cover 3.5 miles while gaining 650 feet in elevation. With breathtaking views of Estes Park throughout the trail, this adventure is perfect for all ages and skill levels looking for a peaceful adventure off-the-beaten path.

It’s important to keep in mind that while the overall hike may be quite effortless, Emerald Lake and Dream Lake have some rather steep inclines.

The Flattop Mountain Trail, also referred to as the Grand Trail or Big Trail, gets increasingly more challenging with every step closer to its peak. Nevertheless, you will have access to views few are privileged enough to experience! As your journey nears completion and you reach the peak of this majestic mountain range, a captivating viewpoint is revealed – Tyndall Glacier and Hallett Peak in all their glory!

Bear Lake Trailhead

• Length: 3.8 mile loop
• Difficulty: Moderate

Bear Lake is on the most rewarding hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll marvel at breathtaking views like the majestic Hallet Peak, stunning Longs Peak, and Half Mountain

Make sure to take a few moments away from gazing at the sky and look around you. You will be surrounded by towering trees such as Aspen, Pine, and Spruce. It must be noted that there are some steep climbs along certain sections which could prove difficult for those with limited mobility.

Flattop Mountain Trail

• Length: 8.5 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult

If you’re looking for an adventure in Colorado’s majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, the Flattop Mountain Trail is the perfect choice. Beginning at Bear Lake Trailhead and spanning 8.5 miles, this strenuous hike offers breathtaking views of Bierstadt Lake and Mills Creek Basin along its path.

Odessa Lake

• Length: 8.9 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

Beginning at Bear Lake trailhead, the 8.9 mile round trip offers a moderate hike with an elevation gain of 1900 feet through a picturesque landscape of pine forest and gorgeous views from the lake gorge.

If you are feeling adventurous, continue on to take in the stunning Fern Lake Falls and exit from the Fernlake Trailhead.

Glacier Gorge Trailhead

• Length: 6 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

This 6-mile out and back hike will require some effort, so be sure to wear shoes that offer excellent traction. Spikes should suffice for most of the trail but you may want snowshoes near the end. It’s also important to note that winds can get quite gusty on Glacier Gorge Trail, which can make it more blustery than expected; therefore, dress accordingly!

Although your total elevation gain is around 900 feet, you get some truly magnificent views. You can simply park up at the trailhead and set off for a memorable journey. By the time you reach Mills Lake, it will be evident that every step was worth taking as the tranquil beauty of nature cannot be compared to anything else!

Alberta Falls

• Length: 1.7-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy

Alberta Falls is renowned as one of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in the Rocky Mountains and its 30-foot drop can be reached with relative ease. This day hike spans only 1.7 miles for a roundtrip, meaning that kids can join you on this adventure!

On your journey to Alberta Falls, you will wander through the stunningly beautiful aspens of Chaos Creek and Glacier Creek Trail. When you reach the falls, make sure to take your time taking in all its beauty before deciding whether or not to backtrack down or venture further along towards Mills Lake!

Sky Pond

• Length: 8.5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Every bit of your journey to Sky Pond is breathtaking, yet, bear in mind that it can be quite slippery. This 8-mile hike falls under the moderate difficulty level and requires hiking boots for comfort and safety. There might still be snow or ice present well until June and July, so, packing up your trekking poles is recommended.

If you’re looking for a place to start your hike, both the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and Bear Lake are good choices. Just remember that these two spots can be quite busy and their parking lots tend to fill up quickly, so taking a shuttle to Sky Pond is highly recommended!

Chasm Lake

• Length: 8.2 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult

Chasm Lake is one of the most difficult hikes you will experience in Rocky Mountain National Park. Situated right beneath Longs Peak, which towers as the highest summit within this park, Chasm Lake’s elevation gain totals a whopping 2566 feet and its total distance comes out to 8.5 miles round-trip! If you are up for an invigorating adventure with stunning sights along the way, then make sure you’re fully prepared before embarking on your hike to Chasm Lake.

Gem Lake

• Length: 3 miles out and back
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Gem Lake Trail offers a spectacular 3-mile journey that is suitable for the whole family! Start your adventure at Lumpy Ridge Trailhead where plenty of parking spaces are available.

Be mindful, however, as there are some steep spots along the way so if you or anyone in your party has difficulty with balance, we suggest bringing hiking poles to make this experience even more enjoyable. To avoid crowds, plan on starting early around sunrise; otherwise, expect larger groups by midmorning.

Ute Trail

• Length: 6 miles out and back
• Difficulty: Easy

Situated at a staggering 11,000 feet above sea level, you’ll find the Ute Crossing Trailhead which was previously used by Native American tribes like the Utes for crossing through the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking for an easy and flat hike that is suitable for everyone, this one fits the bill. However, be aware of sever weather conditions – strong gusts of wind can blow as well as thunderstorms are not uncommon for this trail.

And don’t forget to keep your eyes open- ptarmigans are known to inhabit these areas!

Thunder Lake

• Length: 11.6 miles
• Difficulty: Difficult

For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure, the Thunder Lake hike is just what you need! Start your journey at Wild Basin Trailhead and be prepared for an 11-mile trek that is considered quite challenging.

Unlike other trails in Rocky Mountain National Park that become swamped during the summer months, this trail is less crowded.

Moraine Park Trail

• Length: 3.5-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy

If you’re looking for a gentle and family-friendly excursion in Rocky Mountain National Park, look no further than the Moraine Park Trail! This 3.5 mile loop has only a moderate 350-foot elevation gain, making it ideal for leisurely walks rather than strenuous hikes. You’ll be sure to appreciate this peaceful trail as much as your little ones do!

Ouzel Falls

• Length: 5.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

This 5.4 mile roundtrip hike is rated as moderate and offers 950 feet of elevation gain. The trail is well maintained and perfect for a half day outing. As you make your way up the path, you’ll pass through meadows filled with wildflowers and towering pine trees. You may even spot some elk or deer along the way!

Once you reach Ouzel Falls, you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in RMNP. It spills over a cliffside and enormous boulders, creating an awe-inspiring sight that’s sure to take your breath away. After taking in all its beauty, continue on to Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades for more breathtaking views before heading back down the trail.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, Ouzel Falls is a must-see destination in Rocky Mountain National Park that won’t disappoint.

Tips For Hiking The Rocky Mountain National Park

Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park is an amazing experience. With over 300 miles of trails, there are plenty of options for all levels of hikers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging climb, you’ll find something to suit your needs. Here are some tips to help you plan your hike and make the most of your time in the park.

• Choose Your Route: Before heading out on your hike, take some time to research the different trails available in Rocky Mountain National Park. Consider factors such as distance, elevation gain, difficulty level, and scenery when choosing which route to take.
• Pack Appropriately: Make sure you bring the right gear for your hike. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the day. Also be sure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the terrain you’ll be hiking on.
• Be Prepared: Always check the weather before heading out on a hike so that you can plan accordingly and dress appropriately for any conditions you may encounter during your trek. Additionally, it’s important to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return so that they can alert authorities if needed in case of an emergency.
• Stay On The Trail: It’s important to stay on designated trails while hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park in order to protect fragile ecosystems from damage caused by off-trail exploration or shortcuts taken by hikers who don’t know their way around the area very well yet.
• Respect Wildlife: Remember that this is their home too! Keep a respectful distance from any wildlife that you may encounter during your hike and never feed them or try to touch them as this can cause them harm or put them at risk of being injured or killed by predators or humans alike!
• No matter the season, don’t forget to slather on sunscreen before heading out for a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. The higher you climb, the more exposed you’ll be to the sun’s rays, so make sure to protect yourself by wearing sunglasses and a hat as well. With these precautions in place, you can enjoy your hike with peace of mind!
• There are NO pet-friendly areas within Rocky National Park and it is for your pet’s safety. There are however many places you can board your pet in nearby towns.