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Colorado
3.1 mi
Distance
632 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Rocky Mountain National Park
National Park unit boundary is mapped — agency alerts for it feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
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Why you'll love it
Emerald Lake Trail
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
Emerald Lake Trail is a 1.6-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado near Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail gains 632 feet of elevation, making it a moderate climb suitable for hikers with some experience or good fitness levels. Managed by the National Park Service, this trail takes you through designated wilderness area with the scenic rewards that Rocky Mountain National Park is known for. The destination at Emerald Lake showcases the alpine landscape characteristic of Colorado's high country. The out-and-back format means you'll cover approximately 0.8 miles each way to reach the lake. With moderate elevation gain spread across the distance, the hike offers a steady but manageable ascent. The trail is well-maintained by park staff and clearly marked. This hike works well for a half-day adventure, allowing time to explore the Emerald Lake area and return before evening. The relatively short distance combined with significant elevation gain makes it a focused workout with scenic payoff. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so come prepared with layers and check conditions before heading out.
Bear Lake Trail
~0 min drive
0.7 mi · Easy
Bear Lake
~0 min drive
<p>Bear Lake Road ends 9.2 miles from the junction with Trail Ridge Road at the Parking Area for Bear Lake. From the parking area, take a short walk on a marked path to reach Bear Lake itself. Bear Lake offers spectacular scenic views of Bear Lake, Hallett Peak and the surroun…
Fern Lake Trail
~1 min drive
15 mi · Moderate
Sprague Lake
~4 min drive
Located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park along Bear Lake Road, Sprague Lake is one of the most popular destinations inside Rocky Mountain National Park. There is a 0.7-mile loop trail around the lake. Sprague Lake is open year-round and is a great place for wil…
Hollowell Park
~5 min drive
<p>A relaxing destination with many picnic tables and excellent views of Mill Creek Basin below Longs Peak.</p> <p>Enjoy a short easy trail that leaves from the parking lot. Pit toilets available but no trash cans. Pack out what you bring in.</p> <p><strong>Tables: </strong>10…
North Longs Peak Trail
~6 min drive
11 mi · Easy
Tuxedo Park Picnic Area
~7 min drive
<p>Picnic by the river!</p> <p>Descend from the parking area to reach a quiet picnic area next to a shady stream. Feel free to sit and relax, have a good meal, or go fishing with the correct permits and knowledge of regulations. A short trail can be accessed from this location…
Stories of the Moon & Stars at Moraine Park Discovery Center
~8 min drive
<h3>Stories of the Moon & Stars</h3> <p>The moon and stars have inspired humans and their stories for thousands of years. Join us on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park at the Moraine Park Discover Center Parking Area for an evening under the stars. This program begi…
Horseshoe Park
~11 min drive
<p>Horseshoe Park is a low-land meadow with small lakes, great views of the Mummy Mountain Range, and top-notch wildlife viewing opportunities.</p> <p><strong>West Horseshoe Park Pullout:</strong> This pullout contains limited parking spaces that can be used to access the surr…
Tonahutu Creek Trail
~11 min drive
27 mi · Expert