The Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

The Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

With over 300 miles of amazing hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for those who love hiking. You’ll find flat strolls and steep mountains so there really is something for everyone to discover. These hikes can be done by families with kids to the most skilled hikers – just make sure that you know your limits.

If you’re planning a trip to this National Park, you just might find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed at the options of what to hike and when. The good news is that you can do a lot of trails during a short visit if you make a plan to do so before arriving.

If you’re wanting easy meadow walks with views of lakes or trails that will have you tackling the Colorado fourteener, these are some of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National park to add to your hiking bucket list.

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Places To Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Make sure to always check out how difficult the hiking paths are going to be before going! These are The Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park! Find out where you need to hike while visiting the great state of Colorado. If in doubt, check out these activities offered in the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Emerald Lake

This is one of the most popular trails in Rocky Mountain National Park and for good reasons. It’s a fairly easy hike that gives access to almost everyone, but the scenery that you’ll be witnessing every step of the way is the best.

You’ll be hiking past three alpine lakes (Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake) that will give you a ton of excuses to stop and rest, take pictures, and just take it all in.

Even though the lakes are stunning, you can make a choice to walk an extra mile to see another lake: Lake Hayiaha. This does add more steps and length to your hike, but it’s well worth it to see this view.

Bridal Veil Falls

While there are stunning views for everyone in the state of Colorado, there does tend to be a lack of waterfalls in the area.

However, there is one exception to that thought! Bridal Veil Falls is a 20-foot waterful that is a totally unusual sight in the state. The hike to get to it is long – at 6.1 miles – and will take you about 3 hours or so to complete.

The difficulty level is moderate but the trail does follow the Cow Creek which gives you a ton of chances to see wildlife and meadows that will help you pass the time and miles.

Sky Pond

If you’re looking for a little bit tougher hike than the Emerald Lake Hike, give Sky Pond a try. This hike will put your legs to work as it’s 8 miles in length. It’s a tough hike but the amazing views of the valleys, and of Sharkstooth and Taylor Peaks will have you loving your choice. You’ll also see lakes that are stunning, too.

Long’s Peak via the Keyhole Route

If you’re ready for a true hiking challenge, Longs Peak has your number. This is the highest point in Rocky Mountain National Park and just might give you the best view, ever. There are several hiking routes that you can take, but the Keyhole Route is going to be the one that puts your hiking skills to the test.

This route is 14.5 miles (there and back) and it’s EXTREMELY challenging to do. The elevation is 4,991 feet and you’ll be faced with vertical rock faces, rock that is loos, and several cliffs that are steep. You’ll also have to scramble to get to the top and this can actually be challenging even for the best hikers.

It’s important to know that this hike is a serious one – not one to take lightly. You’re going to want to have previous experience and a hiking helmet is a must. You also will want to check the weather conditions before starting.

Bear Lake

This is going to be the most manageable hike to do but that doesn’t mean that you’re going to be short on amazing views. The hiking trail is short (not quite a mile in length) and during this hike, you’ll see peaks and get a stunning view of Bear Lake.  This trail is also an accessible trail so it’s wheelchair and stroller friendly.

Chasm Lake

One other lake that you need to see is Chasm Lake. You may notice that there seem to be lakes everywhere you look in the park, but that’s just part of the charm! If you’re in the mood for a hike that is longer, make a plan to see Chasm Lake.

This hike does showcase the lake but you’ll also see great views of Long’s Peak (which is one of the best views of the park) as well as beautiful rock formations, and even a waterfall, too! Put on your hiking shoes as this hike is 7.7 miles long!

Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park

I hope that this gives you some great ideas on hiking trails that you’ll find at Rocky Mountain National Park. You can plan out your day and spend several days tackling them all!

Planning a road trip to Colorado to get your hikes on? Then this list is a great list of hiking trails that will help you get started! Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy each and every step.