On the easy side of moderate, with only 600 ft elevation gain over 3.2 miles, this trail is accessible to most visitors of Rocky Mountain National Park. While the views on this trail are breathtaking at any time of the year, there is something special about experiencing the stark wintry conditions as you pass through several iconic landscapes.
Although some of the most striking scenery that I’ve seen before on these trails was not fully visible on this hike due to snowy conditions, the hike retained its charm as a beautiful winter hike. It was made all the better with great company – the Boulder Hiker Chicks!
Nearly every new hike we go on in Rocky feels like we’ve discovered a special place, but Thunder Lake in particular was one of the most beautiful alpine lakes we’ve seen so far in RMNP, and in Colorado. This 13-mile hike is not one to miss.
Although the hike to the summit of Flattop Mountain is strenuous, when you get there, the 360 views of the Rocky Mountains on both sides of the Continental Divide are amazing. The Emerald Lake Overlook on the way is itself also a great hiking destination.
The hike to Sky Pond is one of the most famous and best rated hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The varied views, including of several alpine lakes, and the vistas you see on this trail showcase some of the best that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer.
Ypsilon Lake is the least trafficked lake in Rocky Mountain National Park that we have visited so far, and such a serene and beautiful location. Here, you can enjoy the solitude of an alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park without the crowds.
Ouzel Falls is a refreshing and popular Rocky Mountain National Park destination to hike to in the summer months. Although the powerful and beautiful Ouzel Falls is the trek destination, Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades are also great waterfalls to see along the way.
If you live in Colorado and want to spend some time by the beach, hiking up to Sandbeach Lake and relaxing by it’s crystal clear waters with Mt. Meeker in the background is a great option. The hike provides a good amount of exercise and you can enjoy the peaceful and interesting scenery.
At 6.3 miles with 1,849 ft elevation gain, of approximately 800 ft is in the last half mile to the summit, the hike to Estes Cone is somewhat challenging. However, the views of the Rocky Mountains, especially the Mummy Range, were beautiful and well worth the effort to trek and climb the rock scramble to the top.
Trail Ridge Road stretches 48 miles from Estes Park on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park to Grand Lake on the west side. Built in 1932, this scenic byway climbs over 4,000 feet up from Estes Park quickly and winds through amazing mountain landscapes. It is a great destination to visit.
