Quick Info
Options: 300+ miles of trails from flat lakeside walks to 14,000-foot summit climbs. Most popular: Bear Lake area for variety and accessibility. Key tip: Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and parking chaos.
Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding area offer hiking for every skill level and ambition. From wheelchair-accessible boardwalks to the technical Keyhole Route on Longs Peak, you'll find trails that match your abilities and time. The elevation is real—most trailheads start above 8,000 feet—so give yourself time to acclimate if you're coming from lower altitudes.
The Bear Lake corridor is the most popular hiking area, with multiple trails departing from a single trailhead. Alberta Falls, Emerald Lake, and Dream Lake all start here, making it the best bang for your parking buck. But popularity means crowds; the parking lot fills before 7 AM on summer weekends. The park shuttle system from the Park & Ride helps, but early starts remain your friend.
Easy Hikes (1-3 miles)
Sprague Lake (0.9 miles) is a flat, wheelchair-accessible loop around a scenic mountain lake. Morning light reflects the peaks in the water—perfect for photography. Fishing is allowed with a Colorado license. No elevation gain makes this ideal for families and those adjusting to altitude.
Bear Lake Loop (0.6 miles) circles one of the park's most iconic lakes with Continental Divide views. The paved trail is accessible and provides a gentle introduction to the Bear Lake area before attempting longer hikes.
Alberta Falls (1.6 miles round trip) is the park's most popular short hike, and for good reason. The waterfall is photogenic, the trail is well-maintained, and the distance is manageable for most visitors. Go early or late to avoid the crowds.
Cub Lake (4.6 miles round trip) starts from a different trailhead and sees fewer crowds. The trail passes through meadows with wildflowers and lily pads on the lake. Good for wildlife viewing, especially moose in the early morning.
Moderate Hikes (4-8 miles)
Emerald Lake (3.6 miles round trip) passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake en route to Emerald Lake beneath Hallett Peak. Each lake is worth a stop, but Emerald Lake's cirque setting is the payoff. Moderate elevation gain (650 feet) but starts at 9,475 feet, so pace yourself.
Dream Lake (2.2 miles round trip) is the midpoint of the Emerald Lake hike but worth mentioning separately. Many hikers consider this the most scenic lake in the park, with Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain framing the view.
Lake Haiyaha (4.2 miles round trip) branches off the Dream Lake trail and sees fewer hikers. The lake sits in a boulder field with mountain views—different character from the other Bear Lake area lakes.
Gem Lake (3.2 miles round trip) starts from the Lumpy Ridge trailhead outside the park entrance, so no timed entry reservation required. The lake sits in a granite bowl with Estes Park views below. Good option when the main park is too crowded.
Strenuous Hikes (8+ miles)
Sky Pond (9 miles round trip) is one of the park's most rewarding full-day hikes. You'll pass Alberta Falls, The Loch, and climb through Timberline Falls to reach the alpine lake beneath Taylor Peak and the Sharkstooth. Be prepared for the scramble at Timberline Falls.
Flattop Mountain (8.8 miles round trip) climbs above treeline to the Continental Divide. The summit isn't a peak but a broad alpine plateau with 360-degree views. Experienced hikers continue to Hallett Peak (add 1 mile round trip).
Chasm Lake (8.4 miles round trip) sits dramatically below Longs Peak's Diamond face. The trail climbs steeply through forest and alpine terrain to one of the park's most impressive settings. Not for the faint of heart or lungs.
Longs Peak (15 miles round trip) is the only fourteener in the park and requires serious preparation. Most parties start by 3 AM to summit before afternoon storms. The Keyhole Route involves Class 3 scrambling and exposure. This is a mountaineering objective, not a casual hike.
Hiking Tips
Start early. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are predictable, and lightning above treeline is deadly. Plan to be below 12,000 feet by noon. Early starts also mean better parking and fewer crowds.
Respect the altitude. Trailheads start between 8,000-10,000 feet. If you're from sea level, you'll feel it. Drink extra water, slow your pace, and don't be surprised if you get winded easily.
Bring layers. Mountain weather changes rapidly. A sunny start can become cold and windy within an hour. Pack a jacket even on warm days.
Know the reservation system. Rocky Mountain National Park requires timed entry reservations during peak season. Without one, you'll need to enter before 9 AM or after 3 PM when restrictions lift.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best hike for beginners?
Sprague Lake (flat, scenic, accessible) or Alberta Falls (short with a waterfall payoff). Both are manageable for most fitness levels and provide a taste of the park's beauty.
Do I need hiking boots?
For easy trails like Sprague Lake, athletic shoes are fine. For moderate and strenuous hikes, hiking boots with ankle support are recommended, especially on rocky terrain.
Are dogs allowed on trails?
Dogs are NOT allowed on trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. They are permitted on paved roads and in developed areas but must be kept on a leash. Leave pets at home or in town.
When do trails open?
Lower elevation trails are accessible year-round. Higher trails and the Bear Lake Road may be snow-covered into June. Check current conditions at the park website or visitor center.