5 moderate hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a seemingly endless amount of pristine forest, beautiful lakes and waterfalls, and abundant meadows and valleys. Here are 5 moderate-level hiking trails that allow you to see some of the best views that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer.
Cub Lake (Photo) Credit mark byzewski (flickr)
1. Cub Lake
The hike to Cub Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park has it all from mountain meadows to wildflowers to water features.
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 540 feet
Photo Credit: mark byzewski (flickr).
Ouzel Falls (Photo) Credit lightphoto (iStock)
2. Ouzel Falls
The constant flow of North Saint Vrain Creek accompanies hikers on the way to Ouzel Falls. Views of Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades are seen from the Wild Basin Trailhead where this journey begins.
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 950 feet
Author’s Note: The National Park Service warns hikers to avoid treading near the falls due to very slick rocks and the strong flow of water.
Photo Credit: lightphoto (iStock).
Emerald Lake (Photo) Credit tupungato (iStock)
3. Emerald Lake
This out-and-back trail ends at Emerald Lake, but features three other lakes along the way. Begin at Bear Lake, then after about a half-mile, hikers are rewarded with a second lake, Nymph Lake, where pond lilies bloom during summer. About another half-mile from here is Dream Lake, which reflects a dark turquoise hue. Finally, hikers reach Emerald Lake after another mile over steady elevation gain.
Distance: 4.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 744
Author’s Note: This hike is one of the most popular and busiest in Rocky Mountain National Park. During peak season in summer months, the parking lot is almost constantly full. It is highly recommended to take the free shuttle bus to this trailhead.
Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock).
Ute Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park (Photo) Credit LifeImagesbyGloria (iStock)
4. Ute Trail
The Ute Trail begins in alpine tundra with stunning views of the Never Summer mountaintops before descending into the subalpine forest of flowers, firs, and spruces. Be sure to stay on the trail to avoid damaging the fragile alpine ecosystem.
Distance: 8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,037 feet
Author’s Note: The Ute Trail descends from 11,796 feet to 10,759 feet above sea level, so be prepared for a hike back up during the return trip in a high-elevation environment.
Photo Credit: LifeImagesbyGloria (iStock).
Cascade Falls Rocky Mountain National Park (Photo) Credit Leslie James
5. Cascade Falls
One of the most powerful waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park is reached from the west end of the park along North Inlet Trail. Cascade Falls tumbles 100 feet down granite rock.
Distance: 6.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Photo Credit: Leslie James, OutThere Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park (Photo) Credit Chancey Bush, The Gazette
BONUS
For beginner-rated trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, click here. Looking for a challenge? Check out some difficult, yet rewarding hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here's a list of suggested hikes from park rangers.
Photo Credit: Chancey Bush, The Gazette.
The Trail Ridge Road (Photo) Credit vermontalm (iStock)
Leave No Trace
Due to the extremely heavy visitor traffic Rocky Mountain National Park experiences each year, it is crucial to minimize human impact when in the park. The seven Leave No Trace principles are a guide to being a responsible Colorado Adventurer, with steps including to pack out all trash and waste, be prepared by checking the weather forecast, trail conditions, parking availability, road closures, and other conditions; stay on the trail at all times, and respecting wildlife by never approaching or feeding them. Read more about Leave No Trace here.
Photo Credit: vermontalm (iStock).
Leslie James
Leslie James is all about Colorado when it comes to writing features, sharing adventures, and creating colorful galleries. She loves camping, hiking, mountain biking and snowboarding. Leslie joined OutThere Colorado in November 2020.
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