Rocky Mountain National Park, Hike in the Off Season!

Rocky Mountain National Park is a mecca of spectacular hiking. Unbeatable views and sensational trails make a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park unforgettable.

The off-season provides fewer crowds and no permits, making it an ideal time to hike and play!

If you are looking for easy or moderate hikes, the eleven listed below are sure to thrill you as they did us!

OFF SEASON is SPRING, LATE FALL, & WINTER

Nymph Lake Trail is a short, sweet, fairytale-like hike for all skill levels. A perfect trail to see Colorado’s Rocky Mountains without much effort in all its majestic glory. > READ MORE!

1.1 mile out & back

Rated: Easy

Dream Lake Trail is an easy hike to one of Colorado’s most spectacular alpine lakes. Famous, busy trail but so worth it! It captured our hearts from start to finish. >READ MORE!

2.2 miles out and back

Rated: easy (slightly moderate)

Lake elevation: 9910 ft

Emerald Lake is a gorgeous hike from start to finish. Nothing is lacking on this trail; it screams Colorado Rocky Mountains in spades. One of the most popular hikes in the Park. >READ MORE!

3.5 miles out & back

Rated: easy/moderate

Lake elevation: 10,110 ft

Bierstadt Lake Trail has views of the Continental Divide as you hike switchbacks upward. When reaching the top, a beautiful alpine lake awaits. Making your way around Bierstadt Lake, you will find yourself wandering in awe as you meander in a tranquil forest. >READ MORE!

2.4 miles out & back

Rated: easy/moderate

Alberta Falls is a short trail to a scenic and sparkling waterfall thundering down a narrow canyon. The hike through pines and aspens is an added treat and beautiful! >READ MORE!

1.7 miles out and back

Rated: Easy

Cub Lake Trail in Moraine Park is an area full of lush green meadows, beaver ponds, forest-lined trails, rocky canyon walls, and more. We spotted Moose and Elk on our trek! >READ MORE!

5.1 miles out & back

Rated: an easy-moderate

Family-friendly

Loch Vale, also known as The Loch, is one of the most popular hikes within Rocky Mountain National Park. The subalpine lake sits nestled below 13,153-foot Taylor Peak and Taylor Glacier. We loved this hike. I would do this hike over and over again! >READ MORE!

Loch Vale via Glacier Gorge Trailhead

5.4 miles out and back

Rated: moderate/slightly strenuous

Elevation gain: 1,056′

Owning proper clothing keeps you hiking year-round!

In Fall & Winter, a Nano Puff Vest, a Nano Puff Jacket, Smartwool Socks, a Midweight Base Layer Top, and Fleece Leggings.

I have owned these items for years of hiking. 

Mills Lake is a sensational subalpine lake. With Half Mountain sitting majestically at the end of the lake and views of peaks on all sides as high as 13,579 feet, it is one not to miss.

Large rocky areas to sit in wonder and enjoy a picnic or a nap. Indeed a great day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. >READ MORE!

Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge Trailhead

5.3 miles out and back

Rated: moderate/slightly strenuous

Elevation gain: 941′

Gem Lake is just how the name sounds! Fun hike with water crossings, rock steps, and gorgeous sweeping views. Not a long trail but full of adventure as you hike upward. We enjoyed it. >READ MORE!

3.1 miles out and back

Rated: moderate/slightly strenuous

Elevation gain: 994′

Rocky Mountain National Park is not to be taken lightly. It sits at a high altitude and dehydration plus fickle weather is always something to consider. For a look at the Practical gear that we have in our backpacks on every hike. > hiking essentials. 

Chasm Falls is a 25-foot waterfall cascading down the Fall River within Rocky Mountain National Park. A beautiful scenic hike up Old Fall River Road with dramatic rock formations and high peak views. >READ MORE!

West Alluvial Fan Trailhead

3.5 miles out & back

Endovalley Parking (summer)

2.5 miles out & back

Rated: Moderate

Family Friendly

Ouzel Falls, Calypso Cascades & Copeland Falls in one hike I won’t forget. It is located in the Wild Basin region southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park, which sometimes gets missed.

Rich in wildlife, scenery, waterfalls, & alpine lakes, this area is a gem with lots of trail options. >READ MORE!

5.9 miles out & back

to Ouzel Falls

1,062′ elevation gain

Rated: moderate

3.6 miles out & back

to Calypso Cascades

Rated: easy/moderate

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