Hiking the Best of Rocky Mountain National Park

Explore the best hiking trails with a trip leader who knows all the best spots in the Rocky Mountain National Park of Colorado with this 5-day walking and trekking trip. From fields of wildflowers and glacier cirques to expansive lakes, volcanoes and waterfalls, this is a nature-lover’s paradise! You’ll explore the Colorado Rockies each day, from a comfortable inn-style base, and take on winding trails at high altitudes. Walk among the alpine forest to The Alpine Ridge visitor centre viewpoint overlooking Colorado River, then delight at the beauty of Calypso Cascades, Ouzel Falls and Lake, Bluebird Lake, Glacier Gorge, Mills Lake, Jewel Lake, Black Lake, Andrews Glacier, Storm Peak, Longs Peak, Chiefs Head mountains and the famed Chasm Lake.

Itinerary

Day 1: Estes Park

Welcome to Colorado, USA! This morning, you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow group at your accommodation in Estes Park at 8.30 am. Then make your way to the Gem Lake Trailhead. Nestled within the ancient granite cliffs and boulders of Lumpy Ridge, you’ll hike through a labyrinth of rock formations while taking in the amazing views of the country you have walked through so far. Take it all in (and take plenty of photos) and then enjoy lunch at the lake with your group. Make your way back to the accommodation where you can freshen up before we head out for dinner at a local eatery.

Day 2: Estes Park

After breakfast, take a drive to the trailhead and set out on today’s hike through the reaches of Wild Basin – a region of the national park that is covered in wildlife, waterfalls and wildflowers. Moose have also recently been seen in this river valley, so keep your eyes peeled. Hike along the North Saint Vrain River, past Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls onto Ouzel Lake and the mountain cirque that surrounds. If time permits, you’ll continue to the higher reaches of Bluebird Lake and take in another view of the Continental Divide. After lunch, exploration and lots of waterfall pics, head back down the trail to your accommodation, where a group dinner awaits.

Day 3: Estes Park

Today after fuelling up on breakfast nice and early, head into the land of glaciers, past and present. Take a short drive to Glacier Gorge trailhead and from here, begin your ascent. Hike past the picturesque Alberta Falls and then head into the sub-alpine forest. Among the towering alpine trees, you’ll pass the emerald waters of Mills Lake, Jewel Lake and Black Lake – which sits in a silent and imposing mountain cirque, displaying the powers of glacial ice. Sit down for a hearty lunch and underneath the granite crags Spearhead and Keyboard of the Winds. Head back to your accommodation, taking in the expansive views of Andrews Glacier, Storm Peak and the vast Longs Peak, Pagoda and Chiefs Head mountains on the way.

Day 4: Estes Park

Your time spent hiking at a high altitude has now prepared you for an ambitious hike to the Chasm Cirque. After breakfast, you’ll head to today’s trailhead. Start with a steep climb that gradually eases and crest above the tree line, where you’ll be welcomed by a view of Longs Peak. Arrive at Chasm Lake, where you can’t help but be entranced by the 548 m (or 1,800 foot) vertical cliff known as The Diamond. This is a world-famous climb, so you’ll likely see rock climbers high above you on the granite wall while your group sits down for lunch. Take your time walking back the way you came and enjoy the countless wildflowers that bring these mountain meadows to life. Enjoy a well-deserved farewell dinner at your lodging tonight with your group, sharing stories and favourite moments.

Day 5: Estes Park

This morning take a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road and arrive at your trailhead. Then, you’ll enjoy a day of high-country exploration and walking above the tree line on the famous Ute Trail. This trail provides amazing views of summits, volcanoes, glaciers and varied wildlife (if you keep your eyes peeled). Enjoy the vantage point of being 3450 m high (or 11,400 feet) as you stop for a packed lunch. After, continue down the road for a short hike near the Alpine Ridge visitor center. The viewpoint here sits above the headwaters of the Colorado River and offers breathtaking views of the Never Summer range. Make your way back to the accommodation where your trip ends in the late afternoon. If you’d like to stay in the area for longer, just speak to your booking agent.

Departure Dates