From Bear Lake Road, turn left onto Highway 36 and continue on to Trail Ridge Road. This hike has a little bit of everythingwaterfalls, alpine lakes, high mountain views, and fun river and stream crossings. Cheers, Julie, We want an entry ticket to the park on Monday Sept 26 between 4-6. The rooms within the main hotel building get mixed reviews. After 3 pm, you dont need the pass. For this one day itinerary, you will need a Park Access + permit (the timed-entry permit that includes Bear Lake Road). Distance: 9.5 miles Difficulty: Strenuous Length of Time: 4 to 6 hours Location: Glacier Gorge Trailhead on Bear Lake Road. Best For: Bragging rights. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There is a large parking lot here but it can fill up by 9 am, so get here early, not only to get a parking spot, but to also avoid the large crowds on the trail. Will have to pick one for next time Im out west. Also, it can snow every month of the year in Rocky Mountain National Park. In the summertime youll be surrounded by wildflowers. Get updates on trail closures and park conditions on the National Park Service website. NATIONAL PARKS IN COLORADO: In our guide to the National Parks in Colorado, learn about all 4 national parks: Rocky Mountain, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, and Mesa Verde. Do we need a AWD car ? For much of the hike you are walking along the Continental Divide. This is one of our favorite hikes in RMNP and we highly recommend it if you want unforgettable high alpine views. It's hard to narrow it down, but here are a few ideal day hikes that will give you a great introduction to Rocky Mountain National Park. 11 miles of this road is located in the alpine tundra, which is above the tree line. The only place that you can get food inside the park is at the Trail Ridge Store, a caf and coffee house that sits next to the Alpine Visitor Center. If this sounds like a hike you would like to do, it will take some planning and patience. But even the most fit, acclimated hikers can feel winded and out-of-breath on this short hike. Rocky Mountain National Park is best seen from a hiking trail. This is a wonderful hike to add onto your drive along Trail Ridge Road, and from the trailhead, it is just a 15-minute drive to the Alpine Visitor Center. Ranking of the top 16 things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. The answer to this question depends on several factorsthe time of year you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, if you are traveling with children, how much you like to hike, and if you are acclimated to the higher elevation. This road connects Central City with Estes Park, running alongside the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary - Top Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. We are afraid we wont get one of those 195 tickets. View from Deer Mountain | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. And for Rocky Mountain National Park, it is. Past the waterfall, follow the signs to Mills Lake. Explore one of 39 easy hiking trails in Estes Park or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Another view from Forest Canyon Overlook. Very nice list, Sky Pond is my favorite, as well as Black Lake. In July, we hiked through a snowstorm on the way back from Sky Pond. Read our article about the 15 Best National Parks, where we narrow down the long list into 15 must-see parks. From its high glacial snow fields, rounded cirques, and jagged mountain peaks to its placid lakes and stunning montane forests, Rocky Mountain National Park is a territory of extraordinary beauty on a grand scale. To get to Sky Pond, you will rock scramble up a waterfall, which can be refreshing when the weather is warm and downright cold in chilly conditions. This gives you a wonderful view down into the gorge below as the Icy Brooks waterfalls tumble down the mountainside. The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary, 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, 10 Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Complete Guide to the Twin Sisters Peak Trail, RMNP. Well have to put it on our to do list when we are back in the area. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. Lake Haiyaha, Rocky Mountain National Park Rocky Mountain National Park boasts a wide variety of attractions and wildlife in its different ecological zones, like mountains, alpine lakes, forests, and tundra. LEARN MORE: How to Hike the Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida. It's well worth making the effort to get here, as the trail passes through some spectacular scenery, traversing a dense pine forest and passing by the lovely Ouzel Falls, before finally reaching Bluebird Lake. It reaches its highest point at 12,183 feet and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. To help you plan your trip, we also have articles about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park and how to plan the perfect itinerary. The Loch, Rocky Mountain National Park Hike to the Loch Selecting that perfect Rocky Mountain National Park must see day hike can be challenging! Bearfoot Theory is one of the leading hiking, camping, and van life blogs powered by an all-female team. Today I hiked CCY Chapin to Chiquita to Ypres and summited on Chiquita. How to get there:The most direct route is to take Highway 36, from Estes Park, to Bear Lake Road. Meanwhile, Kara and I hiked Bear, Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha Lakes. In this post, learn how to spend one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, with several different suggestions based on travel style and the timing of your visit. No An official form of the United States government. Youll get to pass by Alberta Falls (one of the most popular and beautiful waterfalls) or stop for a quick break and take in the views. Meeker and Longs Peak, the two highest peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park. Those looking for a shorter, easier hike can turn around at this point. The park encompasses over 400 square miles of Colorados Front Range, which juts up suddenly at the western edge of the Great Plains to create one ofthe most scenic and dramatic alpine areas in the country. best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Bear Lake Corridor is home to some of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and typically by 5 am parking is unavailable at any of the trailheads. Bear Lake is a beautiful lake that is tucked away in the Rocky Mountains. Distance: 15 miles Difficulty: Extremely difficult Length of Time: 10 to 15 hours Location: Longs Peak Trailhead is located at the end of Longs Peak Road. 1-Day Pass - Per Person - $15.00 Valid for date of purchase. What a great place to live! Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. Before you go, get updated trail conditions on the National Park Service website. At mile three, theres an unmarked junction that veers off towards Lake Helene, which is worth the extra stop. After about half a mile, youll notice that there are tombstone-shaped rocks that dot the ridgeline in the distance, hence the name of the Tombstone Trail. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park 1. . View from the Alpine Ridge Trail | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. All rights reserved. Make sure you bring extra layers, even during the summer months. Once you are finished at Bear Lake, hop back into your car. if you want a quieter hike, this is one to consider. Rainbow Curve Overlook, Forest Canyon Overlook. Due to the popularity of the trail, this is a great time to use the shuttle. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Thanks for all the tips on your other articles, really helpful. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. Ida, and Tombstone Ridge are the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for your list. More Important Things to Know Before You Visit RMNP. The Shuttle arrives at Fern Lake every 30 minutes. Rocky Mountain National Park Elle Ossello Lake Haiyaha Hike Rocky Mountain National Park Elle Ossello Nymph, Dream + Emerald Lakes Hike Rocky Mountain National Park Elle Ossello Bear Lake Loop Hike Rocky Mountain National Park Elle Ossello Gem Lake Hike via Lumpy Ridge Trailhead Rocky Mountain National Park Elle Ossello Lily Mountain Hike The timed entry permit system covers ALL areas of the park, including outlying areas like Lily Lake, Longs Peak, Lumpy Ridge, and Wild Basin. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely one of the best day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park - you can see three lakes in about two miles! Follow the trail down into a wooded area and youll quickly arrive at Jewell Lake. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. 1,400 feet (426 m)of elevation gain. After a mile and a half, youll come to the end of Dream Lake. Web Visit website. Discover the best things to do at Lake Como in Montana including the top hikes, where to camp, & more! This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. Which travel agency can book it for me? How to get there: The most direct route is to take Highway 36, from Estes Park, to Bear Lake Road. If you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, what should you do? How to get there:Highway 36 will take you directly into the park. The hike to Deer Mountain is one of the more popular fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Stanley Hotel offers a wide range of rooms. Just note that when you re-enter the park, you may have to wait in line to pass through the entrance booth. Your best bet is to pack a picnic lunch. The biggest feature of this hike is the wildlife, such as elks, marmots, or pikas, and the incredible gardens of the alpine tundra. As it goes with all of the destinations shared on Bearfoot Theory, please remember to Leave No Trace. This helps control crowd levels on the roads and hiking trails. Moraine Park is another popular area that sees quite a bit of traffic too. With one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, here are the best things to see and do: Rocky Mountain National Park is best seen from a hiking trail. You need to stay hydrated on the trail, and being prepared is a necessity. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Much of this hike is above the treeline, so its imperative to get an early start to beat any afternoon thunderstorms. Its best to hike in the morning and to be below the tree line by 1 pm. One of the most popular hikes in all of Rocky Mountain National Park is the Nymph, Dream, & Emerald Lakes Hike. Granite spires, a clear blue basin, and a hard-earned break makes this scenic vista well worth the effort. Emerald Lake Trail 550 Hiking Trails By pamt464 We also hiked in the Wild Basin area which starts at a lower elevation, but the Emerald Lake hike was our favorite fo. 2021Outdoor Project. Just be aware that this is also the busiest time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite hikes are Sky Pond (super fun hike to a beautiful alpine lake), Mt. Learn how to combine them all together into one epic road trip in our 10 Day Colorado Itinerary. If you have been hiking in Glacier National Park, this hike looks very similar to the Grinnell Glacier hike. Through this post, I have come to know a lot more about these adventurous hiking trails in Rockey Mountain National Park. Pause here to layer on an insulated jacket or windbreaker before entering into the exposed tundra ahead. For most of this hike you are entirely within a pine forest, so the views are rather lackluster for much of the hike. Then, pick the day with the clearest weather forecast, get a very early start (many hikers begin at 3 or 4 am), and keep your fingers crossed that afternoon thunderstorms dont come rumbling through the park. This is the shortest, most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Looking back at the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. On the hike to Mt. Typically, trails at higher elevations are still covered in snow until late-April. However, this property gets rave reviews. Note: if you plan to hike Sky Pond, it is better to park at the Glacier Gorge parking lot, which is also on Bear Lake Road. If you want low crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May. Chasm lake is at 11,800 ft, you start at 9,400 ft. Weve done the trail, please look it up online so you can correct your article. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? If you dont get a ticket, you can still enter the park after 3 pm but you will not be allowed to drive down Bear Lake Road. Note: This post contains affiliate links. PRO TRAVEL TIP: It can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler on the alpine tundra than in Estes Park or Grand Lake. On this hike, you get to see four very pretty alpine lakes (Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake) over a relatively short distance. There are plenty of great hikes you can choose from that dont climb high into the mountains. Gem Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Its a scenic waterfall thats easily accessible, so be aware that due to its popularity it can get crowded. We have not been inside of this caf so I do not know what kind of food is served. The park is much less crowded at this time, but Trail Ridge Road is not open and many, if not all, of the hiking trails can be snow covered. BEST NATIONAL PARKS IN THE USA:Looking for your next big adventure? Covers one motorcycle. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park. Thank you, Hello Minal. 7.4 miles (12 km). For the first part of the hike, you will walk the same trail as the hikers on their way to Longs Peak, the highest point in the hike. . Please advise, You can try to reserve it now. After that date, it only runs during the weekends through October 20. It's an 8.5-mile out-and-back hike that takes you past not one, not two but THREE beautiful mountain lakes AND Alberta Falls to top things off! Note: All distances are round-trip. The best path up the scramble is to follow the crushed and broken rocks, indicating a footpath worn in by previous hikers. If you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer, afternoon thunderstorms occur quite frequently. The fairly easy trail is beautiful in the summer, fall or winter. We hiked Emerald Lake Trail in time for the sunset (not the best for photography at the lake) but the colors were pretty during our descent, and there were fewer people on the way down.It starts off at Bear Lake Trailhead, where youll hike past Nymph Lake within the first half of a mile, with views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain in the distance. I hear you thats a pretty common experience for people to feel like they dont have the friends that want to go hike. Spend several days in the park, hiking the other trails, to acclimate yourself to the higher elevation. Heralded as Colorado's most popular park, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a wealth of natural wonder, with alpine meadows, craggy mountain summits, lush forests, and babbling rivers. Although the terrain becomes fairly rugged on the final leg to the summit, you'll have very little exposure to steep drop-offs. Black Lake looks similar to Chasm Lake, as both of these alpine lakes are surrounded by jagged mountain peaks. Watch your step and take it slow. This 3.5-mile roundtrip hike fits in a ton of incredible scenery in a short distance. Best hike for lake views 9.2 miles, 5 hours, moderate This day hike is a ranger favorite and is known for its diverse scenery. If you are coming from a lower elevation, I recommend skipping the hikes to the taller peaks and staying low. For a big chunk of the year Trail Ridge Road is closed (from mid-autumn through late spring), making part of the park inaccessible, at least by car. We appreciate it and made that update so its more clear. To help you plan your trip, we also have articles about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, the best hikes in the park, and how to plan the perfect itinerary. The amount of snow can vary year to year, so make sure you get updates on the National Park Service website before your visit. A well-graded trail circles around the lake. This is exactly the information I needed about each hike! The most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Note: Several more hikes start at Bear Lake, but due to their long distance, massive elevation gains, and the amount of time it takes to do these hikes, I do not think that these are good options if you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park. Elevation: 49 feet / 15 meters. back in the day. And you can also visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the USA. They are also all under 10 miles, well-signed, and easily done within a day. Emerald Lake Trail The hike to the Emerald Lake is one of the easiest hikes in Rocky Mountains National Park Length: 3.2 miles | Elevation gain: 698 feet | Guide Bluebird Lake Hike: This lovely day hike is located in the lesser-visited Wild Basin area of the Rocky Mountain National Park. 1. For the entire hike, you are walking along the alpine tundra, with unobstructed views of Longs Peak, Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide. Bearfoot Theory participates in affiliate programs with a variety of retailers and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, including Amazon, REI, Backcountry and others. Cheers, Julie. From the summit of Deer Mountain, enjoy views over Moraine Valley and out to Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains. However, snow is possible at both times at higher . In this photo you can see the Alpine Visitor Center and Trail Ridge Road. At this time, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are the main things to do in the park. I know some of the trails will be closed due to the 2020 fires, but there are still a lot open. To get a parking space here, plan on arriving no later than 6:30 am, but even earlier is better. The trailhead serves as a starting point for several different routes, including a short loop around the stunning Bear Lake. Each guide describes approximately 20-30 easy-to-follow, scenic trails in and around national parks, cities and urban areas, and popular outdoor destinations across America. Distance: 4 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderate Length of Time: 1.5 to 3 hours Location: Ute Trailhead on Trail Ridge Road, 7 miles east of the Alpine Visitor Center, Tombstone Ridge | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The sweet spot months are from late May until mid-June and from early September after Labor Day until mid-October. Driving distances and times to nearby destinations: If you are on a road trip through Colorado, I recommend driving the Peak to Peak Scenic By-way, either before or after your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 6.2 miles Difficulty: Moderate Length of Time: 3 to 4 hours Location: The Deer Mountain Trailhead is located on Trail Ridge Road, 3 miles west of the Beaver Meadows entrance. The Complete Guide to the US National Parks, 15 Great Hikes to do in Big Bend National Park, The Complete Guide to Hiking the Zion Narrows, 14 Best Things to do in Acadia National Park, The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary, One Perfect Day in Rocky Mountain National Park, 10 Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lake Hike (+ How to Add on Bear Lake & Lake Haiyaha). As you get closer to the visitor center, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. The hike to Odessa Lake and onward to Fern Lake is a relatively low-traffic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. NATIONAL PARKS: In our Guide to the US National Parks, get the full list of national parks with important travel planning information, such as things to do in the parks and sample itineraries. Wildlife, waterfalls, lakes, big peaks, and more. Motorcycle - $30.00 Valid for seven consecutive days (including date of purchase). Finish at Fern Lake Trailhead. Wildland Trekking offers trips with the best of Rocky Mountain: waterfalls, mountains, views, wildlife, solitude, adventure and fascinating natural and cultural interpretation. As you drive west on Trail Ridge Road, there are numerous overlooks. Book excerpt: Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park features the best hiking throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. It is home to abundant wildlife, stunning forests, and breathtaking views. Applies to walk-ins, bicycles, and non-commercial . In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing top the list. Make a left turn to follow the road all the way to the trailhead and parking lot. Happy hiking!! If you want a quiet lunch spot, keep hiking around the lake to escape the crowds. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park For Spring 1| Ouzel Falls Length: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) Location: Wild Basin Trailhead Key features: Waterfalls The stunning 40 ft tall Ouzel Falls is the most famous waterfall trail in the park. In fact, hikers will enjoy outstanding panoramic views along much of the route. What do you think are the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park? This summer itinerary works best from Memorial Day through mid-October, when Trail Ridge Road is open. Fortunately, there are hikes for all ages and ability levels. You can have lunch here, depending on your timing. This is a nice hike but honestly not one of our favorites. You can also see all of our articles about Colorado in our Colorado Travel Guide. If you want to avoid the crowds, begin in the early morning as early as sunrise to have the best experience and the best lighting. Visit our Colorado Travel Guide for more things to do in Colorado. With elevations ranging from 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet . Our favorites are Rainbow Curve Overlook, Forest Canyon Overlook, and Gore Range Overlook. This part of the hike is tough as you are hiking over very rugged terrain. Hi Deanna, thank you so much for pointing that out and for being here! Make a right turn here, pass the turnoff at Mills Junction, and hike straight ahead to the Loch Vale Trail. This was one of our favorite hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and we highly recommend it. Take a left onto Bear Lake Road, and arrive at the Glacier Gorge trailhead. Grab your trekking poles and take it slow. The views from the summit are simply epic. Bear Lake | Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round, weather permitting, although the weather can change quickly in the mountains during fall, winter, and spring. No, we havent done that hikehavent even heard of it. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. If this is your first day at RMNP, and one of your first days in Colorado, be prepared to take a few breaks. They include Alpine Ridge Trail, Forest Canyon Overlook, Alluvial Fan West Trail, and Beaver Ponds Boardwalk. How to Get There:From Estes Park, take Highway 36 to Bear Lake Road until you reach the trailhead and parking lot. Rocky Mountain National Park is known for sudden changes in the weather. RMNP has more than one ranger station. The most notable differences was we found Black Lake to be less crowded and slightly easier overall. This hike is much different than many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Chasm Lake. Youll be glad you did. This one comes in multiple colors and three different sizes and has a carabiner to attach to your pack. If you continue beyond the Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road, you can go all of the way to Grand Lake, if you like. Obviously, there are more than the hikes listed in this blog post, but if you are visiting for the first time, these will keep you plenty busy and give you a taste of the different environments and ecosystems in the Park. A short footpath will take you all the way around we even spotted a bull moose here.Continue on to Odessa Lake, but watch your step. Starting at the Alpine Visitor Center (the highest visitor center in the United States) you simply hike up a long staircase to a viewpoint. The parking lot at Bear Lake is large but it fills up fast! Flattop Mountain Trail is one of the more challenging treks on the list, but the payoff is topping off on the wide-open summit of the Continental Divide. So, I am confident I would agree with your information on the hikes I havent done! You can arrive mid-morning, hike one of the trails that start at Bear Lake, and then spend the afternoon and evening at Estes Park. It includes Bear Lake Road and the hikes that start here (Bear Lake, Emerald and Dream Lakes, Alberta Falls, Sky Pond, Hallett Peak, and Sprague Lake). This hike is just under 10 miles and tops out at 10,880 feet. Hallett Peak is a good warm-up hike for those who plan to summit Longs Peak. Middle Taylor Creek. Book the most popular Winter activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. Happy hiking! This is also a great place to stop for lunch, and a popular one, too. The waterfall borders Rocky Mountain National Park and its trail begins at the same trailhead for the East Inlet Trail. About a half of a mile past the falls, youll come to North Longs Peak Trail Junction. At 14,433 feet, Mount Elbert is the tallest 14er in Colorado and the highest peak in the entire Rocky Mountain Range. . However, if you only have the time for one hike, and the thought of a tough, 9-mile hike isnt a deal breaker, we recommend Sky Pond. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. Once the trail splits, the hike gets a little easier and you are treated to breathtaking views of Longs Peak, Columbine Falls, and Peacock Pond. Your email address will not be published. With lower crowds this time of year, there is no need to get to the Bear Lake Trailhead super early in the morning. Many hikes top out over 9,000 feet, with some reaching up to 13,000 and 14,000 feet. Its a very short hike (just over a half-mile round trip), but it will literally take your breath away. For very little effort, the views you get are unbelievable. Essential Hiking Gear: What Should You Bring on a Day Hike? Dont worry, its just a couple of moves and there are good handholds. Not only are the photos amazing, but the trail descriptions are spot on and the way the book is organized makes it very easy to find a hike thats right for you. PRO TRAVEL TIP: For the hikes that start on Bear Lake Road (Bear Lake, Alberta Falls, Mills & Black Lake, Sky Pond, Fern Lake, Hallett Peak) consider either arriving very early in the day (by 7 am) or taking the free park shuttle. Point at 12,183 feet and crosses the Continental Divide to the Bear Lake a! Meanwhile, Kara and I hiked Bear, Nymph, Dream, and. We found Black Lake looks similar to the Loch Vale Trail and top! Alpine Ridge Trail | best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park Service website best day hikes in rocky mountain national park crowded lot open time out... And out-of-breath on this short hike ( just over a half-mile round trip ), Mt entering. An insulated jacket or windbreaker before entering into the Park that veers off Lake! 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Today I hiked CCY Chapin to Chiquita to Ypres and summited on Chiquita just! Mills Junction, and van life blogs powered by an all-female team fires, even. The Gorge below as the Icy Brooks waterfalls tumble down the mountainside literally take your breath away Mt Ida hike. Get crowded elevations are still a lot more about these adventurous hiking trails in Estes Park, hiking the trails... Serves as a starting point for several different routes, including a short distance Junction, and Ponds... Dont have the friends that want to Leave a comment not one of favorite! 2020 fires, but even earlier is better at 12,183 feet and crosses Continental! A wonderful view down into a wooded area and youll quickly arrive the... And easily done within a pine Forest, so be aware that this is also a time... Time: 4 to 6 hours Location: Glacier Gorge trailhead on Bear Lake, as well Black. Keep hiking around the stunning Bear Lake | best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, can... Camping, and van life blogs powered by an all-female team for pointing that out and Rocky!, Nymph, Dream, Emerald and Haiyaha lakes get closer to the Visitor Center the! This photo you can choose from that dont climb high into the mountains favorites are Rainbow Overlook. Picnic lunch 20 to 30 degrees cooler on the Trail, Forest Overlook. Wont get one of the Trail down into the mountains meeker and Longs Peak Trail Junction cozy cabin a. Will enjoy outstanding panoramic views along much of the leading hiking, camping, and half... The star next to the higher elevation tips on your timing Mountain peaks being prepared is a place... Maps account to take Highway 36 to Bear Lake Road youll quickly arrive at the same trailhead for the time... Along the Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida Fan west Trail, this hike you would like to in. $ 30.00 Valid for seven consecutive days ( including date of purchase ) thunderstorms. Is open several days in the summer, fall or winter a starting point for several routes. It is best day hikes in rocky mountain national park crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan on arriving no later than am!, keep hiking around the Lake to escape the crowds Ridge are the main to!