12 Best Hikes In Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in America, with over 300 miles of trails to explore. From easy lakeside strolls to challenging summit climbs, there’s something for every hiker in this Colorado paradise.

I’ve put together my favorite trails that showcase the park’s alpine lakes, wildlife, and spectacular mountain views.

1. Emerald Lake Trail

You’ll pass not one, but three stunning alpine lakes on this popular trail! Starting from the Bear Lake Trailhead, the path takes you past Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before reaching the spectacular Emerald Lake.

During summer, wildflowers dot the landscape, while winter transforms it into a snowshoer’s paradise. The views of Hallett Peak reflecting in the crystal-clear waters make every step worthwhile.

At just 3.6 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain, this trail offers big rewards for reasonable effort.

2. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge

For adventurous hikers seeking something special, this trail delivers unforgettable views and exciting challenges. The 9-mile round trip journey takes you past Alberta Falls, through Loch Vale, and requires a fun scramble up a waterfall to reach the final destination.

Once at Sky Pond, you’re surrounded by sheer cliff walls and spire-like rock formations called the Sharkstooth. The alpine scenery here feels almost otherworldly.

Though strenuous, each section offers its own rewards, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

3. Bear Lake Nature Trail

If you’re traveling with young children or seeking an easy introduction to the park, this gentle loop around Bear Lake won’t disappoint. The half-mile paved path offers stunning mountain reflections in the crystal-clear lake waters.

Interpretive signs along the way explain the area’s ecology and history, making it educational as well as beautiful. In fall, aspen trees create a golden frame around the lake that’s simply magical.

Wheelchair accessible and open year-round, this trail proves that some of nature’s most spectacular views don’t require strenuous hiking.

4. Chasm Lake Trail

Hiking beneath the shadow of Longs Peak is an experience that stays with you forever. This challenging 8.4-mile round trip takes you to a stunning alpine lake nestled in a rocky cirque directly beneath the sheer east face of Longs Peak.

Along the way, you’ll cross alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in summer and might spot elk or marmots. The final approach requires some rock scrambling but rewards you with up-close views of the Diamond, a famous 1,000-foot vertical rock face.

Early starts are essential to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in this exposed terrain.

5. Alberta Falls Trail

Just 1.6 miles round trip makes this gorgeous waterfall hike perfect for families or those with limited time. From the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, you’ll follow a well-maintained path through aspen groves and pine forests.

The 30-foot waterfall crashes through a small gorge, creating a misty, refreshing atmosphere that’s especially welcome on hot summer days. Large granite boulders around the falls provide perfect picnic spots.

Visit in early morning or evening to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photographs of this photogenic natural wonder.

6. Flattop Mountain Trail

Want to stand on the Continental Divide? This challenging 8.8-mile round trip trail takes you to a uniquely flat mountain summit where waters flow either to the Atlantic or Pacific depending on which side they fall.

The trail climbs steadily through several ecological zones, from montane forests to alpine tundra. Above treeline, the panoramic views expand with every step, revealing a sea of peaks in all directions.

For those with extra energy, continue another mile to Hallett Peak for an even more dramatic summit experience with views of Longs Peak and the entire park.

7. Mills Lake Trail

Mid-range difficulty with spectacular payoff makes Mills Lake one of my favorite recommendations for most hikers. The 5.3-mile round trip begins at Glacier Gorge Trailhead and passes Alberta Falls before continuing into a gorgeous glacial valley.

Mills Lake sits in a dramatic setting with Longs Peak and other mountains reflecting in its waters. Massive granite slabs at the lake edge provide perfect spots for resting and soaking in the scenery.

If you’re feeling energetic, continue another mile to Black Lake for an even more remote alpine experience with fewer fellow hikers.

8. Alpine Ridge Trail

Though short at just 0.6 miles round trip, this high-altitude trail packs a punch with its panoramic views and alpine environment. Starting from the Alpine Visitor Center at 11,796 feet, it’s one of the highest trails in the park.

Wooden steps lead up through fields of tiny alpine flowers that bloom in an explosion of color during the brief summer season. From the top, you can see vast stretches of the Never Summer Mountains and other ranges.

The thin air makes this short trail more challenging than its length suggests, so take it slow and bring extra layers—weather changes quickly at this elevation!

9. Ouzel Falls Trail

Located in the less-visited Wild Basin area, this 5.4-mile round trip hike offers a more peaceful experience away from the park’s busier sections. The trail follows North St. Vrain Creek through lush forests with several smaller waterfalls along the way.

Calypso Cascades provides a beautiful halfway point, but continuing to 40-foot Ouzel Falls is well worth the extra effort. The surrounding forest burned in the 2020 East Troublesome Fire, creating a fascinating landscape of recovery and renewal.

Wildlife sightings are common here, including the water ouzel (dipper) bird that dives into rushing streams to feed—giving the falls their name.

10. Deer Mountain Trail

If you’re looking for a summit experience without extreme difficulty, Deer Mountain delivers beautiful views for moderate effort. The 6-mile round trip zigzags up through forests and open meadows to reach the 10,013-foot summit.

From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of Moraine Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide. Unlike many park hikes, this trail is often accessible year-round and provides a good introduction to mountain hiking for beginners.

Keep your eyes peeled for the mountain’s namesake mule deer, especially in early morning or evening hours when they’re most active.

11. Cub Lake Trail

Famous for its lily pads and diverse ecosystems, this 4.6-mile round trip hike offers something different with each season. The trail passes through meadows, forests, and rocky areas before reaching Cub Lake, which transforms throughout the year.

In summer, thousands of lily pads cover the lake surface with yellow flowers blooming in July. Fall brings spectacular colors, while winter creates a peaceful snow-covered landscape perfect for snowshoeing.

Moraine Park’s wide-open spaces along the first section of trail provide excellent opportunities to spot elk herds, especially during the fall rut season.

12. Gem Lake Trail

Unlike most park lakes, Gem Lake isn’t fed by streams but collects in a natural granite basin from rainfall and snowmelt. The 3.4-mile round trip starts near the town of Estes Park and climbs through fascinating rock formations.

About halfway up, you’ll reach a natural window in the rocks called Paul Bunyan’s Boot. The trail offers spectacular views of the Estes Valley and Continental Divide as you climb.

Though small, Gem Lake lives up to its name with crystal-clear waters nestled in a rocky bowl. The unique terrain makes this feel like a completely different experience from other park hikes.