20 Best Trails and Hikes in Estes Park

1. Gem Lake Trail

The fabulous trail leading up to the Gem Lake features interesting rock formations and fantastic views of Estes Park. This is a famous place for fishing and hiking and the route is moderately challenging.

A well-marked path is rocky in parts and includes step climbing. As you progress, the stunning views make every step worth it. A timed entry permit and entry fee are a must.

This place is equally popular for winter hikes but, do not forget to carry snowshoes, microspikes, or crampons as you may need them. Easy to park facility along with the bathrooms in good condition. So, if you are searching for something less crowded then it's the go-to place.

• Length: 5.1km
• Elevation gain: 301m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

2. Dream Lake Trail

Explore this amazing piece of scenic beauty located in Estes Park, Colorado. Depending on weather conditions, it could be rainy, windy, or dry and beautiful. So, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast for suitable conditions for hiking. As it contains some uphill climbs, the trail is considered moderately difficult.

A timed entry permit and entry fee are necessary along with the paid parking. Because of its popularity, it might get crowded so, going early is recommended to avoid the possible crowd and to enjoy nature at its best as much as possible.

• Length: 3.2km
• Elevation gain: 140m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: Around 1 hour
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

3. Lake Haiyaha

A very popular hiking trail in Estes Park Co Lake in the Rocky Mountain region is mainly known for its clear sparkling water where hikers enjoy the sight of trout swimming.

This place is surrounded by beautiful rock formations that enhance its beauty even more just like a cherry on top. The route leads you through the multiple beautiful high-altitude lakes with the intermittent views of the Longs Peak.

The trail has few slippery boulder areas so, the use of caution is advised. If you want to experience a quieter and peaceful hike then, starting early is highly recommended and it gets crowded later in the day because of its popularity.

 A timed entry permit along with the entry fee is required. It has limited parking and may get full in case of heavy traffic and has good conditions bathrooms.

• Length: 6.4km
• Elevation gain: 258m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: Around 2 hours
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

4. The Loch via Glacier Gorge Trail

A less crowded and you can say an underestimated hiking trail in Estes Park Co. An amazing route that features the incredible views of the Eastern Glacier Knobs, Taylor Glacier, and several surrounding peaks.

This place is considered the home of the alpine lakes where you can sit for hours enjoying the breathtaking views and still won't be enough. A timed permit and entry fee are a must.

The hike is equally popular for the winter treks as well but, make sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Conditions can be windy and cold at the top. An early start is recommended to beat the possible crowd and also to have easy parking access as it may get full very soon.

• Length: 8.7km
• Elevation gain: 324m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

5. Chasm Lake

If you like challenging routes and are a passionate hiker then, this one is for you. A challenging route in Esters Park, Colorado is a classic and must-do hike. It features difficult terrain with steep and rocky parts that test the hiker's skill and patience.

The windy conditions above the tree line are common in this place along with the chances of gusts capable of knocking down the trekkers. A timed entry permit and entry fee are mandatory.

Snowshoes, microspikes, or crampons are necessary for winter hikers. An early start is recommended for the timely return in safer areas as it is also known for the unwarned thunderstorms at the top, especially in the afternoon. It's usually less crowded and has easy parking conditions.

• Length: 12.9km
• Elevation gain: 778m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

6. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail

Another challenging and worthy trail in Estes Park especially for the challenge lovers. The trek starts at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead along Bear Lake Road taking you through some of the best views in the whole Rocky Mountain National Park including the prettiest alpine lakes.

 A timed entry permit along with the entry fee is required. Also, it requires a campsite permit and reservation for overnight camping in the wilderness.

Winter hikers will require winter hiking gear like snowshoes, micro-spikes, or crampons. It may also include some slippery and muddy sections during rainy days. Limited parking is available which gets full quickly, especially in the peak summer seasons.

• Length: 13.8km
• Elevation gain: 541m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

7. Alberta Falls Trail

The short and sweet hike is suitable for everyone and is located in Estes Park, Colorado. Great option for families to hang out in nature and spend some quality time. It offers beautiful scenery along the trail with a stunning waterfall at the end.

Good conditions and is usually a less crowded place but requires a certain entry fee. Parking is a bit challenging in this place so, using a shuttle is recommended. Overall, it's a beautiful trail and worth visiting.

• Length: 2.6km
• Elevation gain: 69m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 45 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

8. Sprague Lake Loop

A family-friendly trail located in Estes Parks, Colorado. It takes visitors around Sprague Lake with well-maintained sitting facilities. This route can also be accessed using a wheelchair, stroller, or other mobility equipment but having all-terrain tires would be great.

It requires a certain amount of the entry fee. There are designated parking spaces available with good-condition bathrooms. However, pets are not allowed on this trail.

• Length: 1.3km
• Elevation gain: 11m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 20 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

9. Bear Lake Loop

Bear Lake Loop is an easy trail offering incredibly awesome views of the snow-capped mountains. Also, it is considered a popular destination for families. During the winter and in summer after the rain it can be wet and slippery. It is accessible to wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility equipment with all-terrain tires.

A certain amount of entry fee is required and has easy parking conditions along with the good condition bathrooms. But, pets are not permitted on this trail.

• Length: 1.1km
• Elevation gain: 15m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 15 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

10. Bierstadt Lake Trail

Explore the beautiful loop trails in Estes Park. The trail takes you around Bierstadt Lake, which has nice lake views and surroundings. Despite the steep ascent at the beginning, it is a manageable trail that also offers amazing wildlife views, including deer, moose, and ducks.

A timed permit and entry fee are required to enjoy this joyful trail. As it is usually not crowded, there is no parking difficulty, and there are bathroom facilities, too.

• Length: 4.7km
• Elevation gain: 189m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

11. Deer Mountain Trail

Located just outside Estes Park, it offers incredible views. It sits just on the edge of the park and doesn’t go quite deep into the wilderness. It features steep inclines and rocky terrains throughout the trail which is why the use of caution is advised. Though it is a moderate trail but can get challenging towards the end for some hikers.

 An entry fee and a timed entry permit are required. Generally, it is less crowded and has easy parking conditions as well as good-condition bathrooms. Overall, it's a nice place to hang out and a deserving trail.

• Length: 9.7km
• Elevation gain: 425m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 13 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

12. Lily Mountain Trail

Experience this challenging but worthwhile trail in Estes Park, Colorado. A well-marked path with some tricky sections. Downloading an offline map is highly recommended. Depending on weather conditions, the summit can be icy or snowy, so keep an eye on weather conditions to plan accordingly.

It has limited parking and may get full quickly especially on weekends however, the trail is usually not crowded. Dogs are permitted within the Roosevelt National Forest but aren’t allowed in Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Length: 6.1km
• Elevation gain: 391m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: Yes

13. Kruger Rock Trail

Kruger Rock Trail is open throughout the week from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 at night. This is an extremely popular hiking destination near Estes Park, Colorado. It features a well-maintained trail that is easy to follow and takes you through the forested mountain to Kruger Rock. You will be rewarded with an amazing 360-degree view from the summit but can be windy and chilly.

An entry fee is required to enter this place and good news for the pet lovers as it allows the dogs. It is a suitable place for all ages which is usually not crowded except for weekends and has easy parking as well as good-condition bathrooms.

• Length: 5.8km
• Elevation gain: 300m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

14. Cub Lake Loop

A great place hiking in Estes Park for the whole family that offers mesmerizing meadows and mountain views. It takes you through some ups and downs but nothing demanding. Passing through several small lakes it finally reaches the stunning club lake. The trail is equally popular for winter hiking as well but make sure you carry the proper hiking gear and wear appropriate clothing.

A timed entry permit along with the entry fee is mandatory. Also, a permit and campsite reservation are necessary for overnight camping in the wilderness. Usually less crowded and easy to park.

• Length: 9.7km
• Elevation gain: 227m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

15. Alluvial Fan Trail

Enjoy this short and easy trail with your whole family creating some beautiful memories for a lifetime. It is considered as a geological wonder and an amazing spot to check out. It has well-maintained and easily paved paths making it suitable for all ages. It can be easily accessed by wheelchair, stroller, or using other mobility equipment with all-terrain tires. Some sections may be slippery.

Being a short and popular trail, it may get crowded later in the day so getting early is advised. It has well well-paved parking lot providing an easy parking facility and has good-condition bathrooms.

• Length: 1.1 km
• Elevation gain: 25m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 16 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

16. Alpine Ridge Trail

Located in Estes Park, Colorado, Alpine Ridge Trail is a moderately challenging trail suitable for all ages. It offers stunning 360-degree views from the top that is over 12,000 ft. It is windy and cold on the top even in the summer so, don't forget to pack a couple of warm clothes.

Some sections are steep and consist of stairs making it a bit difficult but apart from that overall it's a beautiful hike with worthy rewards. A timed entry permit and entry fee are necessary. Less crowded and easy parking access. It may have seasonal road closures so check in advance.

• Length: 1km
• Elevation gain: 41m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 20  minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

17. Fern Lake Trail

The moderately challenging route in Estes Park, Colorado is a well-known hiking and camping spot. Gorgeous and peaceful conditions take you through the lush green forest offering great views of lakes. During winter, it requires winter hiking gear and is recommended to be alert for weather conditions and avalanches.

Plenty of parking available and a less crowded trail to enjoy nature at its best. A timed entry permit and fee are required here. Also, a permit and reservation for the campsite are mandatory for overnight camping in the wilderness.

• Length: 12.1km
• Elevation gain: 450m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 42 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
•  Dog-friendly: No

18. Hallett Peak

One of the challenging routes located near Estes Park, Colorado is a very popular hiking destination among the hikers. It features breathtaking views along with the windy conditions which is why proper hiking gear is recommended. It contains some rocky sections as well as during foggy weather visibility might decrease.

A times entry permit along with the entry fee is mandatory. It is usually not crowded and as a result, there is not any parking difficulty except for weekends or holidays.

• Length: 15.6km
• Elevation gain: 997m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

19. Twin Sisters Peak Trail

A demanding and steep adventure hiking in Estes Park that leads you to the top of the continental divide. The area is known for sudden weather alterations and wind. But the route is worth the risk taking which offers incredible panoramic views from the summit. Afternoon storms are common and could be dangerous so, an early start is recommended for the timely return to the safer zone.

Winter hikes are also very popular but require winter gear and some training regarding winter conditions like avalanche safety. Parking is easy here and is a peaceful trail. But, a timed entry permit and entry fee are a must.

• Length: 11.9km
• Elevation gain: 760m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

20. Ypsilon Lake Trail

Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself to this incredibly awesome trail in Estes Park, Colorado. It's a must-do trail that is well-maintained and features gradual inclines leading you to amazing Ypsilon Lake. From here you can also continue to the Alpine Spectacle lakes.

 All your efforts are worth rewarding at the end of the route. Summertime is known for changing weather conditions frequently, especially in the afternoons so, make sure you start early and return to a safer zone before thunderstorms hit.

Hiking and fishing are the major activities here but first, you need a timed entry permit and fee to enjoy this amazing trail. It has limited but easy parking with good-conditioned bathrooms and is usually less crowded.

• Length: 15.3km
• Elevation gain: 948m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No