Lake Hikes
Various trails meander by lakes. A very easy and short one is the Bear Lake Trail, a .6-mile loop. The Cub Lake Trail is a moderately difficult trail of 2.3 miles that rewards its hikers with a panoramic view. The Bluebird Lake Trail is much more strenuous at 6 miles. It takes the hiker through the Ouzel Lake area. The Lone Pike Lake Trail offers a 5.5-mile trail along a stream. It passes the scenic Adams Falls.
Waterfall Hikes
Waterfall trails are among the most popular in Rocky Mountain National Park. A beginner-friendly path is the Alberta Falls Trail. It is a little more than a half-mile to a view of Glacier Creek cascading down the mountain. Those undertaking the Cascade Falls Trail can rest beside the waterfall that gives it its name before finishing the 3.5 miles. On the eastern side of the park is the Timberline Falls Trail, a demanding hike of 4 miles that culminates with breathtaking views of Loch Vale.
Winter Hikes
For those that prefer their hiking with a coating of white there are winter hikes at the park, mostly on the eastern side. Check with park rangers for avalanche potential and the weather conditions before trying any of these day hikes. For an unparalleled view of the Continental Divide a visitor with skis or snowshoes can try the Deer Mountain Trail, a 6-mile round trip that starts among majestic ponderosa pines and heads uphill to the summit. The Gem Lake Trail has a rating of moderate. Hikers will pass by the lake and rock formations. Signs of beaver, frozen solid waterfalls and rock outcroppings await those that negotiate the 5 miles of the Pool Trail.
Mountain Summit Hikes
Four trails will take you to summits of at least 11,000 feet. They are the Sundance Mountain Trail, the Flattop Trail, the Twin Sisters Peaks Trail and the Mount Richtofen Trail. The last one is the most arduous at 7.2 miles and 12,940 feet at the summit. The Sundance Mountain Trail has an elevation at the top of 12,466 feet while Flattop Mountain's height is 12,324, easily high enough to give someone a look at mile upon mile of gorgeous mountain scenery.
