Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its high elevation, with Longs Peak standing tall at over 14,000 feet along a beautiful ridge. When moisture comes from the west, it rains more on the west side of the mountains, leaving the east side drier.
This creates lush forests on the west, rocky landscapes and alpine meadows at the top, and drier forests on the east. There’s so much to explore, from hiking to sparkling lakes to walking through the windy high country. Each area offers a different adventure!
Day Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly hike or a challenging adventure, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of day hikes suited for all levels. These trails showcase the park’s diverse landscapes, from serene lakes to majestic waterfalls. Below are some of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park that you should consider for your next adventure.
1. Hike to the Loch
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Alpine lake, forested trail, wildlife
The Loch is a stunning alpine lake nestled amidst towering peaks and is considered one of the most scenic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. This 5.4-mile round trip hike is moderate, making it perfect for those who want a rewarding experience without being too strenuous. As you trek through pine forests, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of cascading streams and waterfalls before reaching the crystal-clear waters of The Loch.
2. Hike Long’s Peak
- Trail Length: 14.5 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Summit views, high elevation, alpine terrain
The hike to Long’s Peak is an epic day hike for the adventurous. Standing at 14,259 feet, Long’s Peak is the highest summit in Rocky Mountain National Park. This challenging hike spans 14.5 miles round trip and is not for the faint-hearted, but those who reach the summit are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire park.
3. Hike to Ouzel Falls via Wild Basin Trail
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Waterfalls, wildlife, wildflowers
If you’re searching for a beautiful waterfall hike, the trail to Ouzel Falls via the Wild Basin Trail is a must-do. This 5.4-mile hike takes you through lush meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. The trail is relatively easy and perfect for families or anyone looking for a serene walk through nature.
4. Bear Lake Area Loop and Alberta Falls
- Trail Length: 3.1 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Waterfalls, family-friendly, scenic views
The Bear Lake Area is one of the most popular spots in Rocky Mountain National Park, and for good reason. This easy 3.1-mile loop trail leads to Alberta Falls, one of the park’s most picturesque waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and ideal for families and beginners.
5. Hike the Continental Divide and camp at Thunder Lake
- Trail Length: 12 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Backcountry camping, alpine views, wildlife
For those looking for a multi-day adventure, the hike to Thunder Lake along the Continental Divide is a fantastic choice. This moderately strenuous trail covers 12 miles round trip and offers opportunities for backcountry camping. The journey to Thunder Lake takes you through alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic mountain vistas.
6. Backcountry Epic: Hiking North Inlet
- Trail Length: 16.2 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Backcountry experience, alpine views, wildlife
The North Inlet Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike that spans 16.2 miles and offers the ultimate backcountry experience. This trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including meadows, rivers, and alpine tundra. It’s an excellent option for seasoned hikers seeking solitude and stunning views.
Best Hikes for Families
1. Bear Lake Nature Trail
Bear Lake Nature Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. This trail is only 0.7 miles long and takes about 20 minutes to walk. It goes around the beautiful Bear Lake and gives you awesome views of the lake and nearby mountains. Since it’s flat, short, and has amazing scenery, it’s a perfect hike for families!
2. Sprague Lake Loop
The Sprague Lake Loop is another great trail for families. This easy path goes around the beautiful Sprague Lake and is flat, so strollers and wheelchairs can use it too. There are plenty of benches if you need to take a break. As you walk, you’ll see amazing views of the lake and the mountains of the Continental Divide. You might even spot some wildlife, so keep a lookout!
3. Alberta Falls Trail
Alberta Falls Trail is a 1.2-mile hike that’s very popular because of the stunning Alberta Falls. You can watch the water tumble down the falls and over big rocks below. Be sure to bring a camera because there are lots of great spots to take pictures on this exciting hike!
FAQs
1. What is the most beautiful trail in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Many consider the hike to Emerald Lake one of the most beautiful trails in the park. The 3.6-mile round trip hike offers stunning views of Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, and Dream Lake before reaching the serene waters of Emerald Lake, nestled beneath towering mountain peaks.
2. What is the best day of the week to go to Rocky Mountain National Park?
Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, are the best days to visit the park if you want to avoid crowds. Weekends tend to be busier, especially during the summer and fall.
3. When is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?
The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warm, and most of the trails are snow-free. However, fall offers beautiful foliage, and winter is perfect for snowshoeing and seeing the park in a different light.
4. How many days should I plan for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park?
A minimum of three days is ideal for exploring a variety of trails. This gives you enough time to experience some of the shorter, scenic hikes, as well as more challenging ones like Long’s Peak or Thunder Lake.
5. Where is the best backcountry camping in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Thunder Lake and the North Inlet Trail offer some of the best backcountry camping experiences. These areas provide stunning views and a more remote, tranquil setting away from the crowds.
