5 Epic Hiking Trails You Have to Explore at Rocky Mountain National Park

Miles and miles of mountain ranges, valleys, and gorgeous trails

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning destination for hikers of all levels. Nestled in north-central Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its five different regions: the Front Range, Montane, Subalpine, Alpine Tundra, and Glaciated Valleys.

Established in 1915, it is one of the most visited national parks in the entire country, clocking in over three million visitors every year. Visitors seeking a sense of adventure are drawn to the many opportunities to explore the mountains and surrounding valleys that make up the park.

Visitors can access each of the five regions from different entry points around Colorado's counties. Because these regions vary significantly with regard to terrain and climate, scientific studies are conducted here to understand different ecosystems and how climate change affects them.

The best way to experience all that Rocky Mountain National Park offers is by taking one of the many hiking trails. These trails offer something for everyone, from easy strolls to strenuous hikes that will test your limits. 

Just remember that the park requires you to pay a service fee to enter and use these trails.  So pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States!

Alberta Falls Trail

We start our list with a simple — yet drop-dead gorgeous — hike that is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to take in the sights without too much of a challenge.

This trail provides hikers with an amazing look at Alberta Falls. The many rivers and creeks flow into these falls. 

The hike is short, but you will want to take your time as there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the river valley and mountains.

Total Distance: 1.61 miles

Elevation Gain: 232 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This is a family-friendly trail with little elevation
• This trail is very popular and can become busy quickly — recommended to go early to later in the evening to avoid crowds
• The trail can be slippery at times near the falls

Bear Lake Nature Trail

If you're an animal lover, this is the hike for you. 

The Bear Lake Nature trail is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to get a glimpse of wildlife like ducks, elk, and other small animals along the way. 

If you’re lucky, you might also see the park's more elusive residents, like beavers, otters, and moose. 

Even if you happen to miss the animals, you’ll still enjoy the beautiful Colorado mountains surrounding this stunning lake.

Total Distance: 0.68 miles

Elevation Gain: 49 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• This trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible but may need an extra push in certain sections
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This is a family-friendly trail with little elevation
• Because this trail is located in the higher parts of the mountains, the air will be thinner, leaving you shorter of breath — take your time and rest when needed

Emerald Lake Trail

Easily one of the most popular trails in the entire park, the Emerald Lake Trail is a must-do when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. 

The trailhead is located near the Bear Lake shuttle stop, making it easily accessible for anyone visiting the park.

Although it is a bit of a climb, the Emerald Lake Trail is relatively easy and can be completed by most people without too much difficulty. Traveling by two mountain based lakes, the views from this trail are simply incredible and definitely worth the effort of scrambling over some of the rocky terrain. 

Total Distance: 3.16 miles

Elevation Gain: 698 feet

Difficulty: Moderate - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Snow is common on this trail so bring warm clothes
• This trail is very popular and can become busy quickly — recommended to go early to later in the evening to avoid crowds
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• The trail can become muddy after wet snow or rainfall — bring proper hiking boots

Chasm Lake Trail

Chasm Lake is right up your alley if you go to Rocky Mountain National Park looking to spend time in the higher parts of the mountain range. 

This trail is relatively difficult because it gains elevation fast. That being said, if you are up for the challenge, Chasm Lake delivers with sights you’ll never forget. Imagine clear blue lake waters surrounded by 360 degrees of glorious mountains. 

Remember that with this kind of elevation comes frequent snow falls. So be prepared to go from sunny skies in the morning to a snowy afternoon and have a jacket and gloves packed.

Total Distance: 8.82 miles

Elevation Gain: 2542 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• This trail has lots of icy sections up rocks on colder days, so take your time and watch your footing
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience in back-country hiking
• This trail is very rocky in sections, so bring proper hiking footwear
• Hiking poles are recommended on this trail

Hallett Peak Trail

If you want to test your limits, try your hand at summiting Hallett Peak. Standing at 12,720 feet, this is the tallest peak that’s open to hikers without special permits or equipment in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The trail starts out easy enough but quickly becomes more difficult as you start to gain elevation. The higher you get, the more breathtaking the scenery becomes but be careful that you don't underestimate the toll that the elevation can take on your oxygen intake.

You will want to take plenty of breaks on this hike to rest your body and enjoy the views. 

Total Distance: 10.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 3293 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• This trail should only be attempted by those with a high physical fitness level or experience in back-country hiking
• The top of the summit can be difficult to track the trail. Bringing a map or GPS is recommended
• No dogs allowed on this trail
• This trail is very rocky in sections, so bring proper hiking footwear
• Hiking poles are recommended on this trail

With towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park is a true outdoor paradise. So on your next visit to the Colorado Rockies, be sure to check out these five amazing hiking trails! You won't regret it. Happy exploring!