Top Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Top Hotels in Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds
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What to do and see in Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park: The Best Outdoor Activities
One of America's premier national parks, it boasts 355 miles of hiking trails.
Restaurants in Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds
1. Never Summer Ranch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
This short, easy trail for families is located near Grand Lake.
2. Thunder Lake day hike or backpack
3. Trail Ridge Road
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3,391 reviews
Reviewed By JMJR2K - Independence, United States
I’ve been driving Trail Ridge road for many years and discover something new and different each time. There are amazing views all around- High mountain lakes, hikes, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, ptarmigans, marmots, deer-you name it. While you won’t see all of the wildlife all the time, usually you’ll stop with others and get out your camera for at least one of these critters. On the weekends, everyone else has the same idea to make the drive so it’s terribly crowded. There are three entrances with the Kawanuchee side the least crowded for entry. The Alpine Visitor Center is a cool place to relax and take in the Picturesque views and there is a museum there that covers the early geological and evolutionary history of the area. As you would imagine, there is a souvenir shop with trinkets and clothing as well as a concession area with food and drinks. Just a beautiful park you won’t want to miss!
4. Emerald Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 523 reviews
Reviewed By Steve5863 - Avon, United States
This 3.6 mile (5.8k) roundtrip hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead is an excellent moderate hike starting at 9,500 feet (2,896m) and climbs fairly steadily to 10,105 feet (3,080m), passing three beautiful lakes, in order, Nymph, Dream and Emerald with a few small cascades along the way and many views of mountains and a couple of good overlooks of valleys where one can see for miles. Dream Lake is the most beautiful lake of the three lake and many people decide to shorted the hike by 1.4 miles (2.3k) and avoid the last 180 feet (55m) of elevation gain but if it is within your capabilities, I would definitely recommend going the full distance. This is a very popular trail and parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead fills quickly. If you want to park at the trailhead and avoid the worst of the crowds, arrive early, by 7am or so, midweek if possible. However, if this is not possible do not miss your opportunity to hike this excellent trail; simply park at the remote lot and take the efficient shuttle bus system to the trailhead.
5. Mills Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By stevegU3386GQ - Iowa, United States
I hiked on this trail with my three teenage children. This trail goes by Alberta Falls and then up to Mills Lake. If you take the shuttle to the Bear Lake trailhead you can hike down to the Alberta Falls Trail. Then hike out to the Glacier Gorge trailhead to get the shuttle back. This trail is more challenging than the Emerald Lake Trail. The trail has parts that are pretty rocky. The views from this trail are very cool. The lake is beautiful. Fewer people than Emerald lake but still well traveled. The four of us each drank about a liter of water on this hike.
6. Hallett Peak
7. Andrews Glacier Trail
8. The Loch Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 35 reviews
Reviewed By applecat79 - Columbus, United States
What a great hike! We used the park and ride transport to Glacier Gorge and hiked to the Loch. Several people were hiking the trail but it was not crowded like the other hikes at the Bear Lake Trailhead. It took us close to two hours to get to the lake. It was pretty much a gradual uphill hike the whole way. Not too bad but definitely a nice workout. Great views all the way. It only took us an hour to get back to the trailhead. One of the best hikes in RMNP!
9. East Inlet Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Rummynomad787 - Dorr, United States
Being novice hikers from Michigan, not use to the altitude, this was definitely a tough hike. It was 100% worth it though! From the streams, to the peaks the views are absolutely gorgeous, especially when you turn around and can still see Grand Lake. Saw lots of wildlife. Can't wait to come back and hike again!
10. Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By cornerstone1979 - Cecilia, United States
Great place to park if Bear Lake parking lot is full. You can hike to Alberta Falls and Bear Lake from here relatively easily. My recommendation is to look at and understand the trail system before you go. There are great hikes from Glacier Gorge. Highly Recommended!!!
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