Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park are a must-see for many people. The relaxed climate and beautiful mountainous views make it a fantastic destination.
I have been to RMNP several times and it never ceases to take my breath away (literally and figuratively- the air is VERY thin up there).
The town of Estes Park is a great jumping off point for RMNP. Being about an hour and a half from Denver and several outlying communities, the drive is moderate in length. Once into the foothills the views are scenic and most turns open up to wide valleys, cliffs or bare rock.
The elevation change is over 2,000 feet, so expect your ears to pop during the drive!
The Estes Park entrance to RMNP sits just on the west side of the town, so you’ll have a chance to check out the small touristy shops and see views of the Stanley hotel as you drive through town.
Speaking from experience, get to the park early! I’m talking before 8am) I have made the mistake of arriving late on several occasions and parking is difficult (if not impossible) to find.
Due to COVID they are taking reservations to get into the park. For more information follow this link.
Leave plenty of time to get to the trailhead before you plan to begin your hike. On the map it looks like a quick trip, but in reality due to the the hairpin curves, slow moving tourists, and/or weather (wind, snow or ice in the winter) it may take longer than anticipated.
Once in the park there are dozens of great jumping-off points and tons of trails, or combinations of trails to choose from. A few that I would suggest include:
Bear Lake Trailhead:
Bierstadt Lake- 3.2 mile loop (I did this one in the winter snowshoeing!) It is a fairly steep trail. There are several areas with incredible views of the mountains. Once at the top, there wasn’t much to see in the winter but I have heard it’s beautiful in the summer!
Emerald Lake- 3.2 miles out and back. (Did this in the winter with Yaktrax) The trail goes around Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. So many good views! In the winter you can run and slide across the ice.
Glacier Gorge Trailhead (and trail):
Mills Lake- 5.4 miles out and back. The trail winds in and out of the forestry, there are a few bridges that cross a small creek. Along the way the path goes next to Alberta Falls, so beautiful!
The Loch- 5.4 miles out and back. This is another great spot off of Glacier Gorge Trail. At the end of the trail a short peninsula juts out to provide incredible views from all angles.
These are only a few of the great spots in eastern Rocky Mountain National Park but the opportunities for different experiences are endless!
Make sure you bring LOTS of water and hydrate beforehand! The climate is incredibly dry and with exertion it is easy to get dehydrated.
If you’re wondering what to pack see my post:
What to Pack for your Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
If you aren’t one for hiking, RMNP also offers a scenic byway through the park where you can stay in your car and still get all the sights! I have heard that in the winter there have been up to 9 foot drifts along the road which may obstruct your view.
Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely a bucket-list item. Enjoy!
