Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
/Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, with over 4.5 million visitors each year. The park, located in Colorado, boasts stunning mountain landscapes, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the park is by hiking its trails. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Longs Peak Longs Peak is the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park, standing at 14,259 feet tall. It is one of the most challenging hikes in the park, but also one of the most rewarding. The trail is 14.5 miles round-trip and includes an elevation gain of 5,100 feet. Hikers will encounter steep inclines, rocky terrain, and a narrow trail towards the summit. The hike is recommended for experienced hikers with proper gear, and a very early start is recommended to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
Sky Pond The Sky Pond hike is one of the most popular hikes in the park due to its stunning scenery. The 9-mile round-trip hike includes an elevation gain of 1,700 feet and takes hikers through Glacier Gorge. The trail features waterfalls, a steep climb up a rock face, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The hike ends at Sky Pond, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by rocky cliffs.
Chasm Lake The Chasm Lake hike is a 9-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet. The trail leads hikers through subalpine forests and alpine tundra, and offers incredible views of Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains. The highlight of the hike is Chasm Lake, a serene mountain lake that reflects the peaks towering above it.
Emerald Lake Emerald Lake is a relatively easy 3.6-mile round-trip hike that takes hikers through stunning landscapes. The trail features views of three different mountain lakes and several waterfalls. The hike includes an elevation gain of 650 feet and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Bear Lake Loop The Bear Lake Loop is a popular 0.8-mile loop trail that is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trail is well-maintained and wheelchair accessible, and takes hikers through a beautiful subalpine forest. The highlight of the hike is Bear Lake, a serene mountain lake surrounded by stunning mountain views.
In conclusion, Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that offer breathtaking views and challenging terrain. The 5 hikes listed above are some of the best in the park, offering a range of difficulty levels and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, there is a trail in Rocky Mountain National Park that will take your breath away.