Hiking in Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a park for hikers. More than 355 miles of trails provide access to remote areas of the park so you can escape the crowds and savor the streams, meadows, and mountains. Because great numbers of people visit RMNP in the summer, some trails are heavily used. To avoid congestion, ask a ranger to suggest lightly used trails.

Because of the terrain in Rocky Mountain National Park, trailheads tend to be clustered in several areas. These areas are Bear Lake, North Fork of the Big Thompson, Wild Basin, Longs Peak, and the west side of the park. There are also several trails in Roosevelt National Forest which borders Estes Park on the east.

With over 350 miles of trails, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a vast array of choices.   Many higher trails and shaded areas can hold snow well into late June.   Please check at a visitor center For current conditions before hiking.   Even for short day trips, be sure to pack gear for all types of weather (sun, rain, snow, wind).

For on-your-own learning experiences, the park offers self-guided trails. Pick up a folder describing features along these trails at the trailhead or at a visitor center.