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There are so many incredible hikes to take in Rocky Mountain National Park that it’s hard to know where to begin. I tried each of these hikes on my trip to the Rockies this past June, and found each one of them stunning in their own unique way. If you have a limited amount of time here, or are just looking for somewhere to start, then I highly recommend walking one (or all) of the following:
Nymph Lake | Easy | 1.1 miles
Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake hikes can actually be combined to form one giant hike, but they’re each so different and beautiful in their own way that I decided to keep them separate for this post.
Nymph Lake is one of my personal favorite lakes in the park, with an abundance of lily pads and the feel of a Monet painting. It had a special kind of magic, that made me really felt like nymphs were splashing about! As an easy hike just beyond the slightly more heavily-trafficked Bear Lake, this is one you really can’t miss. Dream Lake | Easy | 2.2 miles
After soaking in Nymph Lake’s beauty, head up the trail to Dream Lake, where along the way you’ll catch incredible views of the forest and lakes below, beautiful streams, as well as a variety of stunning mountain peaks.
This long lake is often rather crowded, but makes up for it with truly spectacular views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain in the background--and, of course, the gorgeous lake itself. Emerald Lake | Easy to Moderate | 3.5 miles
Near the top of Hallett Peak, nestled between it and Flattop Mountain, is Emerald Lake. Just over 10,000 feet in the air, this little jewel of a lake is ringed by trees and mountains, complete with a small waterfall cascading into the lake. It truly is the color of emeralds, ranging from light to deep green as the colors shift in the light, and although it takes a little bit of effort to reach, it’s so worth it.
Alpine Ridge Trail | Easy | .6 miles
Drive along the historic Trail Ridge Road to reach the Alpine Visitor Center at heights of 11,796 feet (3,595 meters) to reach this short but sweet hike. Climb stairs over open alpine tundra dotted with wildflowers to reach a lookout at just over 12,000 feet. Here, you’ll see magnificent, panoramic views of the mountains and valleys--and maybe even some distant elk, like I did.
While this trail is labeled easy, it’s nicknamed “Huffer’s Hill” for a reason! Don’t be afraid to stop and take breaks so you don’t wear yourself out. Lawn Lake | Strenuous | 12.6 miles
This was the first hike I attempted at Rocky Mountain National Park, and was one of the most beautiful. My dad and I chose to walk only a mile or two to the first crossroads, where the trail intersects with another trail across the Roaring River, but even seeing only part of this hike, I wholeheartedly recommend it. As one of the park’s lesser-known trails, you’ll have the hike pretty much to yourself.
Skirting up Bighorn Mountain gives you good views of the valley, and you spend a large portion of your hike walking above the gorgeous river and its many rapids and small waterfalls.
I found all of these hikes to be absolutely gorgeous, and perfect both for those who are just getting to know the park as well as for those who are more familiar with this incredible place.
Have you been on any of these hikes? Which one was your favorite? I'd love to hear your comments down below! Like this post? Why not share it?
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Hi, there! Call me Kris. I’m a world traveler, author and artist working to showcase the world's beauty and inspire you to find your confidence to see the world!
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