Hiking in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two of the most popular hiking destinations in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The parks offer a variety of scenic trails that range from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, you will find the perfect trail to suit your needs.

Estes Park, Colorado, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, offering miles of scenic trails and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from short, easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of hikes available in Estes Park and highlight some of the must-see views and trails.

Short Hikes

For those looking for a quick and easy outdoor adventure, Estes Park offers several short hikes that are perfect for families and beginners. These hikes are usually less than two miles in length and offer great views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the best short hikes in Estes Park include:

1. Sprague Lake: Sprague Lake is a popular destination for families and beginners, offering a scenic and easy walk around the lake. The trail is approximately one mile in length and is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for those with mobility issues.
2. Alberta Falls: Alberta Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail to the falls is only a quarter of a mile in length and is relatively easy, making it a great option for families and beginners.
3. Gem Lake: Gem Lake is a small and scenic lake located near the town of Estes Park. The trail to the lake is only a little over one mile in length and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.

Intermediate Hikes

For those looking for a more challenging hike, Estes Park offers a variety of intermediate trails that are perfect for experienced hikers and families. These hikes are usually between two and five miles in length and offer great views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the best intermediate hikes in Estes Park include:

1. Twin Sisters Trail: Twin Sisters Trail is a popular destination for intermediate hikers, offering great views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is approximately five miles in length and offers a moderate challenge for experienced hikers.
2. Bear Lake: Bear Lake is a popular destination for intermediate hikers, offering great views of the surrounding landscape. The trail to the lake is approximately two miles in length and offers a moderate challenge for experienced hikers.
3. The Pool and The Roaring River: The Pool and The Roaring River is a popular destination for intermediate hikers, offering great views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is approximately four miles in length and offers a moderate challenge for experienced hikers.

Long Hikes

For those looking for a challenging and rewarding hike, Estes Park offers several long trails that are perfect for experienced hikers and backcountry enthusiasts. These hikes are usually more than five miles in length and offer great views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the best long hikes in Estes Park include:

1. Longs Peak: Longs Peak is the highest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park and offers a challenging hike for experienced hikers. The trail to the summit is approximately 14 miles in length and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Sky Pond: Sky Pond is a beautiful and serene pond located near the summit of Longs Peak. The trail to the pond is approximately 8.5 miles in length and offers a challenging hike for experienced hikers.
3. The Keyhole Route: The Keyhole Route is a popular destination for experienced hikers, offering great views of the surrounding landscape. The trail to the summit of Longs Peak is approximately 15 miles in length and offers a challenging hike for experienced hikers.

Pet-Friendly Hikes

Check out the complete list of dog-friendly hikes here

Estes Park Hikes

Estes Park is a charming mountain town located at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and towering peaks, making it a perfect starting point for your hiking adventures. Some of the most popular trails in Estes Park include:

1. The Lily Mountain Trail: This 3.5-mile hike offers stunning views of Estes Park and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great choice for families with children or beginner hikers.
2. The Albert Mountain Trail: This challenging hike takes you to the top of Albert Mountain, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the park. The trail is 5.5 miles round trip and requires a strenuous ascent.
3. The Twin Sisters Trail: This 7-mile hike takes you to the top of Twin Sisters Mountain, where you will enjoy stunning views of Longs Peak and the surrounding valleys. The trail is moderate in difficulty and well-marked.

Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes

Rocky Mountain National Park is a wilderness area that covers over 400 square miles of rugged mountain terrain. The park is home to a variety of trails, ranging from short walks to multi-day backcountry treks. Some of the most popular trails in Rocky Mountain National Park include:

1. The Bear Lake Loop Trail: This easy, 0.7-mile trail circles Bear Lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This is a popular trail for families with children or those who want a quick and easy hike.
2. The Keyhole Route: This strenuous hike takes you to the top of Longs Peak, the park’s tallest mountain. The trail is 14 miles round trip and requires a full day of hiking. However, the views from the top are worth the effort.
3. The Sky Pond Trail: This 8.5-mile hike takes you to Sky Pond, a high-altitude lake surrounded by majestic peaks. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty and is a popular choice for those looking for a challenging hike.

Hiking Safety Tips

When hiking in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, it is important to take safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Some tips to keep in mind include:

1. Plan ahead: Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you go and pack accordingly. Make sure you have enough food, water, and clothing to last the entire hike.
2. Wear appropriate footwear: Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are recommended for most trails. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops, as they can be slippery and provide insufficient support for your feet.
3. Stay on the trail: Wandering off-trail can lead to getting lost or damaging the environment. Always stay on designated trails and follow the marked path.
4. Bring a map and compass: A map and compass are essential tools for navigating in the backcountry. Make sure you know how to use them before you go.
5. Let someone know your plans: Let a trusted friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect to return. This can be especially important in case of an emergency.

Estes Park Hiking Clubs

Backcountry hikes
Can’t miss/bucket list spots
Lake hikes
Romantic hikes