Rocky Mountain National Park Visitor's Guide



Hiking

Hiker Near Fern Lake
Cow Parsnips
Lily Photography

Rocky draws hikers from all around the world to its diverse and beautiful trails. Whether you're looking for a casual stroll or a multi-day backpacking adventure, the park has something for you.

Trails by Region

We've divided up Rocky's trails by trailheads in four areas so you can find one in the area where you'd like to start hiking.

Northeast
The Northeast trails are near Estes Park and the Roosevelt National Forest. Access is via highway 34 or 36.
Northwest
The Northwest trails can be accessed from Trail Ridge Road during the summer, or from highway 14.
Southwest
The Southwest trails are near Grand Lake, and can be accessed via highway 34.
Southeast
The Southeast trails are near Longs Peak, and can be accessed via highway 7.

Trails by Difficulty

Rocky's trails range from accessible quarter mile loops to 20+ mile multi-day hikes.

Easy Trails
Easy trails are generally short and relatively level. They should be accessible to nearly everyone.
Moderate Trails
Moderate trails require some degree of physical conditioning. You should exercise regularly, and be used to the high altitude of the park before attempting one.
Difficult Trails
Difficult trails are steep and/or long, and require good physical conditioning, and acclimation to the high altitude in the park.
Favorite Family Trails
The Park recommends these kid-friendly trails.
Wheelchair Accessible Trails and Overlooks:
Sprague Lake, Lily Lake, Beaver Boardwalk, Bear Lake, Hidden Valley Snowplay Picnic Area, Many Parks Curve Overlook, Rainbow Curve Overlook, Forest Canyon Overlook, Rock Cut and Tundra Nature Trail, Colorado River Trailhead (with help), and Coyote Valley Trailhead.

Winter Hikes

These trails are recommenced by the Park for winter hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

Yellow Wood Guiding

303 775-5484 (email) Add to my notebook
Yellow Wood Guiding Yellow Wood Guiding offers private customized Widlife and Nature Tours & Photo Safaris in Rocky Mountain National Park. Tour options include: Wildlife Safari, Nature Tours, Wildflower Walks, Birding, and Photo Safaris. Open Year round.
Valhalla Resort
2185 Eagle Cliff Rd Estes Park, CO 80517 (map)
(970) 586-3284 (800) 522-3284 (email) Add to my notebook
Variety of Cozy Cabins, Secluded Next to Rocky Mountain National Park. Fireplaces, Full Kitchens, HotTub, Mountain Views. Open Year-Round. Discover Paradise
Footpaths of the World
790 Moraine Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517 (map)
(970) 586-2995 (email) Add to my notebook
Offering self-guided and guided Inn-to-Inn hiking trips on the 42-mile Walter Tishma Way. Private hiking and snowshoe day trips. Women's trips. Inn-to-Inn hiking in Alsace, France. Fully equipped outdoor store, The Warming House, famous for real boots. In business for 28 years.
Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
927 Moraine Ave Estes Park, CO 80517-395 (map)
(970) 586-4585 (800) 233-5023 (email) Add to my notebook
Top reviews on TripAdvisor.com. At south entrance to RMNP. 1.5 miles from downtown. Exceptionally clean, mtn. views, some balconies, customized hiking tips, pool, excellent food. 100% nonsmoking, pet-free, AC, mini-fridge, micro. AAA AARP senior
Kirks Mountain Adventures
230 E Elkhorn Estes Park, CO 80517 (map)
970-577-0790 877-669-1859 Add to my notebook
Kirks Mountain Adventures Kirks Fly Shop & Mountain Adventures is a full pro-line fly shop and outdoor adventure company, offering guided fly fishing, day hikes, backpacking, horseback/fly fishing, llama pack trips, winter snowshoeing trips. We are Family Owned and Operated, and committed to serving your outdoor adventure needs. We offer year-round guided trips throughout scenic Rocky Mountain National Park, with friendly, knowledgeable guides.
McGregor Mountain Lodge
2815 Fall River Road Estes Park, CO 80517 (map)
(970) 586-3487 (800) 835-8439 (email) Add to my notebook
Estes Park cabins, rooms and suites bordering RMNP! Enjoy wood burning fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens with a hot tub on site. Free WiFi, dog friendly (w/conditions). Spectacular views and great wildlife watching. The perfect place for your mountain getaway!

Patagonia Footwear New at Orvis. 35+ Styles for Men and Women. Shop and buy today.


Explore!

Related Pages
Related Businesses
Related Trails
Related Events
Related Places

[Printable version] [Add to my travel notebook] [Add a picture, video or comments!]