Biking and Hiking in Estes Park are two of the most popular activities when there is no longer snow on the ground.  There are mountain biking and hiking trails in every county.  Some are multi-use  trails.  Others are strictly for hiking only.  Some offer gentle walks and others will challenge you!  There are destination trails that take you to amazing water falls or follow a raging creek.  Others take you to new heights, such as the Continental Divide or to the summit of a 14er.  Whatever you are seeking, however much time you have, there is a trail for you!

Hiking in Estes Park

In Estes Park, the majority of the trails are within the boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park.  To get access, you will need a pass and a timed entry.  There are, however, lots of trails in and around Estes Park that are free and you can hike them anytime.

Some of these trails include:

Lily Mountain Trail

Difficulty:  Moderate   Distance:  4.0 miles   Elevation Gain:  1,282 feet   Dog Friendly?  Yes

This trail is considered a challenge.  But the view from the top is incredible, making the steep climb to the summit of Lily Mountain worth every step. If hiking in the summer or fall, be sure to bring water.  If hiking late fall or winter, the top can be icy and snowy, so bring micro spikes.   Dogs are allowed on leash within Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest. Most of the trail itself is in the National Forest, but the parking lot and trailhead are within Rocky Mountain National Park boundaries.

Mount Olympus

Difficulty:  Hard   Distance:  2.5 miles   Elevation Gain:  1,438 feet   Dog Friendly?  No

The climb to the top of Mt. Olympus is challenging, but offers rewarding views at the top. The summit of Mt. Olympus gives hikers a perfect view of Estes Park and the high peaks that surround the area, from Mount Meeker to Lumpy Ridge and the Mummy Range. Be sure to follow the cairns as the trail can be hard to follow.

East Portal to Sprague Lake

Difficulty:  Moderate   Distance:  3.2 miles   Elevation Gain:  N/A   Dog Friendly?  No

Access one of the most popular lakes inside the park, Sprague Lake via the Adams Tunnel East Portal trailhead. While there is no actual summit, hikers will enjoy views of the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak, Taylor Peak, and Flattop Mountain towering over Sprague Lake. Add distance to your hike with the Sprague Lake loop. The loop is just under one mile and is relatively flat, making it an easy addition to your hike.

Kruger Rock Trail in Hermit Park

Difficulty:  Moderate   Distance:  3.7 miles   Elevation Gain:  1,137 feet   Dog Friendly?  Yes

This is a favorite of ours.  Located off route 36 in the Hermit Park Open Space, Kruger Rock Trail takes you through fields of wildflowers in the summer time and quaking yellow aspen trees in the fall.  With a short scramble towards the top, Kruger Rock offers amazing views of Estes Park and the majestic peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park. This is a part of the

Panorama Peak and The Notch

Difficulty:  Moderate   Distance:  7.3 miles   Elevation Gain:  1,400 feet   Dog Friendly?  Yes

From 36 HWY heading back to Boulder, turn left onto Pole Hill Road.  Wind through a residential neighborhood and you will find the Forest Road. There is no trailhead.  Just parking on the side of the road – very limited.

Are you ready for Rocky Mountain National Park?  Check out how to get reservations and learn about the trails.