Top 12 Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes

Rocky Mountain National Park, with its sprawling peaks, lush meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, is a hiker’s paradise. Located in Colorado, this national park boasts over 300 miles of trails, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top 12 day hikes that showcase the breathtaking beauty and diversity of Rocky Mountain National Park.

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Interested in visiting the park in winter, check out our post on Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter.

Avoiding the Crowds

Rocky Mountain National Park came in at No.2 on a list of America’s five most popular national parks for hiking in 2023 according to Condé Nast Traveler. I’ve mixed into our list hidden gems and tips for avoiding the crowds. I recommend visiting during off-peak times, such as late spring or early fall, to avoid the crowds. Exploring the park early in the morning or later in the day provides easier parking and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

In general, the hikes on the Bear Lake Corridor are some of the most crowded. Take advantage of the hikers shuttles when visiting these areas. The trails on the west side of the Park are less crowded than those on the east side. Another great option to avoid crowds is to visit those trails that start outside of the Park entrances.

Our Top 12 Hikes:

• Bear Lake Loop
• Alberta Falls
• Adams Falls (+ East Inlet Trail)
• Emerald Lake Trail
• Loch
• Deer Mountain
• Mills Lake
• Gem Lake
• Cascade Falls Trail
• Ouzel Falls
• Sky Pond
• Chasm Lake

Easy Hikes

1. Bear Lake Loop

• Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) loop
• Elevation Gain: 49 ft (15 m)
• Average Time: 15 min
• Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead

Perfect for families and those looking for a gentle introduction to the park’s beauty, the Bear Lake Loop offers stunning views of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide, all while circling the serene Bear Lake. This is one of a handful of handicap accessible trails within the Park. Many people combine this with hikes to Dream, Nymph, and Emerald Lakes.

This is one of the more crowded trails in the Park. Plan an early morning visit to avoid crowds during peak season.

2. Alberta Falls

• Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 200 ft (61 m)
• Average Time: 42 min
• Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead

This popular trail leads to one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls. The hike is relatively easy, making it doable for most visitors. The trail offers a rewarding view of the 30 foot cascading Alberta Falls. Most people start the hike from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. If you choose to start from the Bear Creek Trailhead, this adds 0.2 miles. This is a beautiful fall hike, given the large number of Aspen trees.

As with Bear Lake, this is one of the more crowded trails in the Park. Your best bet to arrive early or go in the shoulder or off seasons.

3. Adams Falls (+ East Inlet Trail)

• Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km) round trip (to Adams Falls)
• Elevation Gain: 79 ft (24 m) (to Adams Falls)
• Average Time: 30 min (to Adams Falls)
• Trailhead: East Inlet Trailhead in Grand Lake

Located near Grand Lake, outside of the park entrance, this trail offers an easy 0.3 mile hike (1 km) to Adams Falls and can be extended to explore the East Inlet Trail. The trail offers stunning views of meadows, lakes, and mountains. Just past the Falls, there is a fairly steep drop-off down to the river. The trail is easy to navigate, though I’d suggest holding the hands of little kids. You don’t have to go this way, you can always retrace your steps, avoiding this drop-off. Visitors frequently spot moose here and along the East Inlet Trail.

The East Inlet Trail extends for 9 miles beyond Adams Falls (18 miles roundtrip). The trail runs along scenic meadows and the East Inlet, passing also a series of lakes including Lake Verna and Spirit Lake. It is relatively flat for the first portion making for a pleasant hike. It becomes challenging, but you can turn around before then in preferred.

Moderate Hikes

4. Emerald Lake Trail

• Distance: 3.2 miles (5.1 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 702 ft (214 m)
• Average time: 1 hr 40 min
• Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead

Emerald Lake Trail starts at the Bear Lake Trailhead. You can add the Bear Lake loop (0.6 miles) to this hike at the start or finish. Passing by Nymph Lake and Dream Lake, this trail ends at the stunning Emerald Lake, which is framed by towering peaks. It’s one of the park’s most picturesque hikes, offering postcard-worthy views at every turn.

If you find the hike to Emerald Lake too much, you can turn around at Nymph Lake (making the hike a 1.2 mile roundtrip) or Dream Lake (making this a 2.2 mile roundtrip). About 0.2 miles past Nymph Lake, there is an overlook looking out over Long’s Peak and Nymph Lake, which is a wonderful spot for photos. In the right conditions, Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain are reflected in Emerald lake, making for stunning photos.

This hike can get very crowded in summer and fall. To visit without the crowds, plan to get here early. Bring a thermos of coffee and a picnic breakfast. Watching a sunrise from Dream Lake or Emerald Lake is a great way to start your day.

5. Loch

• Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,062 ft (324 m)
• Average time: 2 hrs 4 min
• Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead

The Loch trail offers breathtaking views of alpine lakes and rugged mountain terrain, culminating at the Loch, one of the park’s most beautiful mountain lakes. The Loch Trail starts at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and passes by Alberta Falls. There are a decent number of people on the trail before Alberta Falls, though relatively few after that point. The Loch is a beautiful and tranquil spot to relax. You can also opt to add a side trip to Mills Lake. This results in a 6.6 mile (10.6 km) total hike.

6. Deer Mountain

• Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,394 ft (425 m)
• Average Time: 3 hrs 11 min
• Trailhead: Deer Mountain Trailhead

Offering panoramic views of the park, the hike to the summit of Deer Mountain is both rewarding and achievable for hikers with moderate experience. It’s a great option for those looking to gain elevation without a technical climb. Deer Mountain is 10,013 ft at its summit, providing spectacular views over Long’s Peak, Moraine Park and Estes Park.

Plan to do your Deer Mountain hike in the morning. This allows you to be down by noon. Thunderstorms and lightning strikes are frequent. The additional advantage of arriving early is that you can more easily find parking at Deer Ridge Junction.

7. Mills Lake

• Distance: 5.2 miles (8.4 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 750 ft (229 m)
• Average time: 2 hrs 20 min
• Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead

Mills Lake is considered one of the gems of the park, offering striking views of Thatchtop Mountain, Pagoda Mountain, Chiefs Head Peak, and Keyboard of the Winds. The trail is beautifully scenic, starting at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and passing by Alberta Falls. There are a decent number of people on the trail until you reach Alberta Falls, but relatively few after that point. The trail weaves through dense and fragrant pine forests. Mills Lake offers a peaceful setting for a picnic. If you continue just past Mills Lake, you’ll reach Jewel Lake. If you are feeling inspired, you can continue on to Blue Lake, which is an 11 mile (17.7 km) roundtrip from the trailhead.

8. Gem Lake

• Distance: 3.2 miles (5.1 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 987 ft (301 m)
• Average Time: 2 hrs 14 min
• Trailhead: Lumpy Ridge Trailhead

Gem Lake is known for its stunning views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park along the trail. The lake itself is a shallow lake and smaller than many of the others mentioned here. This trail starts at the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, which is outside the park entrance. The Lumpy Ridge Trailhead tends to have fewer crowds.

9. Cascade Falls Trail

• Distance: 6.8 miles (10.9 km) roundtrip
• Elevation gain/loss: 633 ft (193 m)
• Average Time: 2.5-3 hrs
• Trailhead: North Inlet Trailhead

Starting from the North Inlet Trailhead in Grand Lake, this moderate hike leads to beautiful Cascade Falls. Note that this trail starts outside of the west park entrance and tends to be less crowded than many on this list. The 3.4 mile trail (each way) is known for its lush surroundings and serene atmosphere. It starts as a wide dirt trail, continuing along the creek for the first portions of the trail. There are fishing opportunities along the way (requiring a Colorado fishing license).

After about 3 miles of hiking, look for a sign for Cascade Falls on the right side of the trail, and finally, a series of stairs heading up to the falls. The meadows, just passed the falls, are a great spot for sighting moose. This is a great option in Summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom, or during autumn with the spectacular fall foliage.

10. Ouzel Falls

• Distance: 5.3 miles (8.5 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 984 ft (300 m)
• Average Time: 2.5-3 hrs
• Trailhead: Wild Basin Trailhead

Ouzel Falls is near Allenspark (south of Estes Park) and starts from the Wild Basin Trailhead. This is a great hike to do as a day trip from Boulder, and tends to be less crowded than those in the Estes Park area. You’ll pass Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades before reaching Ouzel Falls, making this a great choice for waterfall lovers. If you’d like to extend your hike, Ouzel Lake, Bluebird Lake, and Thunder Lake are all beautiful destinations.

Challenging Hikes

11. Sky Pond

• Distance: 8.6 miles (13.8 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,771 ft (540 m)
• Average time: 6+ hours
• Trailhead: Glacier Gorge Trailhead

For those seeking a challenge, the hike to Sky Pond does not disappoint. This trail takes you past Alberta Falls, The Loch, and Timberline Falls before reaching the majestic Sky Pond, surrounded by sharp peaks and rocky spires. You will see a decent number of people until you reach Alberta Falls. Fewer people continue on to the Loch, and even fewer beyond this point. Keep in mind that there is a challenging scramble near Lake of Glass.

12. Chasm Lake

• Distance: 8.0 miles (12.9 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,295 ft (395 m)
• Average Time: 3-4 hours
• Trailhead: Longs Peak Trailhead

Chasm Lake is a very challenging hike that reaches a beautiful mountain lake with views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Meeker and Long’s Peak. While the trail starts in a pine forest, it becomes alpine tundra above the tree line. There is a bit of a scramble at the end of the trail to the lake. Due to the starting elevation, be aware of possible altitude sickness (see travel tips below).

Plan to do this hike early, either getting down by noon or at least below treeline to avoid storms and lightning. In winter, some people bring skates up to skate on the lake.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s dream, offering trails for day hikes that lead through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America. If you are planning your Colorado vacation, you may also enjoy:

• A Perfect Grand Lake Day Trip
• Plan Your Perfect Grand County Summer Getaway
• How to Spend 24 Hours in Boulder, Colorado

Travel Tips

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park offers an unforgettable experience, blending awe-inspiring natural beauty with adventure. To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to plan ahead.

Park Entry Fees	Day pass $25 per vehicle, 7-day pass $35 per vehicle, $80 for an annual pass
Timed Entry System	Don’t forget to purchase a timed entry permit if visiting between May and October
Park Entrances	Beaver Meadows, Fall River, Wild Basin, and Grand Lake
2024 Free Entry Days	Monday, January 15—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Saturday, April 20—First Day of National Park Week Wednesday, June 19—Juneteenth Sunday, August 4—The Great American Outdoors Act Saturday, September 28—National Public Lands Day Monday, November 11—Veterans Day
Visitors Centers	Alpine Visitor Center, Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, Fall River Visitor Center, Kawuneeche Visitor Center, Sheep Lakes Information Station, Moraine Park Discovery Center, Holzwarth Historic Site

Where to Stay

There are 5 campgrounds in the park. 4 of these are reservable on the government recreation site. The Long’s Peak campground is the only first come first serve campground in the park. Moraine Park is known to be the most scenic campground. Be sure to book these spots early as they fill up quickly.

Estes Park Lodging

• Rams Horn Village Resort: this resort offers 2-3 bedroom holiday homes in Estes Park. There is a pool, hot tub, and fitness center onsite.
• Stanley Hotel: recently renovated, this classic hotel was the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining.”
• YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park: just outside of the Park, the YMCA offers a classic camp feel. Stay in lodge rooms, cabins, yurts, or even reunion cabins. Camping and a large variety of activities are available.

Grand Lake Lodging

• Grand Lake Lodge. this lodge provides a century-old national park type ambience. It has mountainside bungalows to half-cabins and more. If you are looking for a classic, camp feel with close access to the park and gorgeous views of the lake, this is a great choice.
• Winding River Resort: right next to the park, this resort has camping and cabins, trail rides in summer, and sleigh rides in winter.

Essential Hiking Tips

• Sunscreen: The suns rays are much more intense at higher elevations. Wearing sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection is essential.
• Mountain weather: Always check the forecast before heading out. Keep in mind that mountain weather changes rapidly. When you see bad weather coming, get below timberline as quickly as possible.
• Dress in layers. Dress in layers, and always carry a raincoat. Wear wool socks and sturdy hiking boots for support and traction. My favorites are Salomon hiking boots and trail shoes. Osprey’s Sportlite 25L is our favorite daypack to carry our extra clothes, food and water, and first aid kit. For short hikes, we bring along an Osprey Trail Running pack.
• Trekking poles: Many people enjoy having trekking poles, which can reduce the strain on your ankles and knees, and can help with balance on uneven terrain.
• Hydration and Fuel: Bring more water for your day hikes than you think you’ll need. Consider adding electrolytes to help you stay hydrated, such as Nuun and LiquidIV. Don’t drink water from streams and ponds, unless you are using a LifeStraw or similar. Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars.
• Leave no Trace: Preserve the natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals and know what to do in an encounter with local animals.
• Navigation: If you are using a map on your phone, make sure that it is downloaded. Cell service can be unreliable in the wilderness areas. Inform someone of your hiking plan and expected return time.
• First Aid: Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries. This should include, at minimum, Band-Aids, antiseptic, aspirin, mirror, matches, and a jack-knife, a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool.

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