With an endless number of amazing hikes, Estes Park reigns as one of Colorado’s greatest mountain towns. From the majestic views of Rocky Mountain National Park to local dog friendly trails, there is no shortage of reasons for you to lace up your hiking boots and take a hike.
The top trails include beginner, intermediate and difficult runs located a short drive from town to those winding through Colorado’s most iconic scenic gates. With easy pathways in Estes to the towering fourteeners, this guide has all you need for tackling some of the region’s best hikes.
So they make your life easier planning out what trails you want to do while visiting I am going separate them from hikes within Rocky Mountain where a timed entry might be required and no dogs are allowed versus hiking outside of the park. It means planning your perfect adventure is easy.
I should know, I am a long-time outdoor writer and have hiked every single one of these trails more than once myself as a 15-year Colorado resident. I’m looking to pass on real insider knowledge that is almost impossible find, making you feel like this was not an ordinary ride.
Scenic Hikes Near Estes Park
Hikes Outside of Rocky Mountain National Park
These are not timed entry or national park entrance fee areas, the trails in these sections can be used without stopping to take a time slot. Furthermore, these routes are the dog’s day out walking paradise. Please note, certain trails may have individual guidelines as well so be sure to read the information given right below each hike.
1. Lake Estes Loop
This is my go to spot when I have visitors, especially if they are animal people and want a better chance of seeing elk in their natural environment. It is really a sight when these great animals are playing on the water. This trail is easily accessible from the road and a good stop on your way in to town.
Lake Estes easy For something located smack-dab in the middle of downtown, head to Lake Estes for a pleasant walk around this scenic reservoir. The trail passes by part of the lake, a wetland meadow area which we were able to float through, and dam. That said, this trail gets a little too close to the Ville Blanche buildings for my taste.
Overall The Lake Estes Loop gains slightly on single track up over the hills but drifts along flat trails perfect for families. Your pup is welcome to attend as long at they are on a leash.
Quick Tip: If you hold your thumb up and it covers an elk, that is a safe distance. Approach wildlife with caution, particularly elk; they will charge if disturbed.
- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 190 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 2 hours
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
- Fees: None
2. Homestead Meadows & Moose Meadows Loop
Not the typical summit views, this trail takes you through homesteads from a time long ago. This Estes Park hike is a hiker’s mecca if you love Pioneer history.
To me, it was a favorite walk for my old dog when she lived with us. With a few different loop choices, this is perfect for those at time constraints.
One of the good moderate hikes for this area is Homestead Meadows & Moose Meadows Loop. It winds up switchbacks through a gulch to the meadow, home of the old homesteads. Notable homes at the Irwin Homestead include stunning views of snow-covered peaks in the Mummy Range.
Plan on running with equestrians : This trail is favored by those traveling horseback for a leisurely (or fast trotting) pace.
- Distance: 6.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 915 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 4 hours
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
- Fees: $9 entrance fee for Hermit Park Open Space
3. Kruger Rock Trail
If you are looking for beautiful scenic summits, particularly at sunrise on your hike list include Kruger Rock Trail. The trail begins with a flat meadow and goes through forest.
After a handful of switchbacks, you will climb steeply with some minor scrambling to the top as you continue. The reward? Panoramic views of the entire mountain range, including several peaks in the Continental Divide as well as Mount Meeker and Mummy Range plus iconic Longs Peak
Local Note: Kruger Rock Trail is located on the lovely Hermit Park Open Space lands which are a nice change from over-crowded trails in Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Distance: 4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 977 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 3 hours
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
- Fees: $9 entrance fee for Hermit Park Open Space
4. Lily Mountain Trail
This path offers stunning views and is located right outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. Be on the lookout for wildlife — you’ll often spot animals along this route!
In the first, more moderate stage of this hike we followed a clear path through lodgepole pines. You will have to scramble towards the top, but cairns lead you all the way to summit. From there, enjoy views that stretch around to nearby Estes Park and Lily Lake or directly at Twin Sisters Peak with Colorado’s massive Longs Peak looming behind itili in the background.
Tip: Parking is a problem on busy days. A few tiny parking spaces line CO Highway 7 but, otherwise you will need to park at the Lily Lake Trailhead and walk back a short distance to get there.
- Distance: 4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,282 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
- Fees: None
5. Isabelle Glacier Trail
Checking out the Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a treat, but it’s much further from Rocky Mountain National Park and even requires extra planning with their new system where you’ll need to reserve your spot in specific parking areas. On the other hand, this region has natural beauty and is generally more authentic than Cairns; hence they are pearl farm area.
I used to come here all the time for its awe inspiring mountain views, doggie hikes and alpine summits. Area trails are excellent, with the Isabelle Glacier Trail being a standout classic. Less-traveled than the Rocky Mountain National Park trails, and only an hour away from Estes Park.
The 3.7-mile hike to Isabelle Glacier is considered one of the best trails in the Indian Peaks Wilderness because it can be accessed year-round and tacks on a few additional miles when covered with snow (Islabraut) as well. It finishes at Isabelle Glacier, a picturesque year-round snowfield.
This trial stands out thanks to the crystal-clear waters of Isabel Lake with Navajo Peak towering above. This is also considered one of the top dog friendly hikes in all colorado so don’t forget to take your pooch with you.
- Distance: 8.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,616 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Estimated Time: 4.5 hours
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
- Fees: $12 entrance fee for Brainard Lake Recreation Area, plus a timed entry permit for this area
6. Lily Lake
If you are doing the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway Broomhopping, Lily Lake is a perfect stop. Learn more about beautiful spots in Colorado traditions. It is the perfect family day out — my daughter and I spent a morning visiting when she was little and during maternity leave. Allthrough you may need to deal with the crowds a bit, for how accessible it is this Gem of Red Rock can rarely complain.
Lily Lake is an easy hike on a wide, level trail that would be stroller-accessible (although the last part leading down to the lakeshore may make it tricky) making this perfect for families with young kids. Now gaze southward and watch for Longs Peak, Twin Sisters, inside the Rocky Mountain National Park {and} Lily Mountain. The aspen trees turn golden in the fall. Those seeking a little more adventure can take the Lily Ridge Trail nearby, which is steeper and provides an even better view.
Local Insight: Lily Lake is part of Rocky Mountain National Park but there is no entrance fee at the trailhead.
- Distance: 0.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: None
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: None
7. Dream Lake
Dream and Emerald lakes? Too many to count at this point — probably a dozen. I usually get up here long before the crowds, having been lured out of bed by ropes required to ascend those great big cliffs in the background. Included here is the clip on how to get through timed entry and have this place all for yourself .
All in all, Dream Lake is one of the park’s more moderate hikes which provides stunning views throughout. Hiking from Bear Lake Trailhead the trail gently ascends to Nymph Lake, a picturesque small lake surrounded by trees where one can relax and take in nature at it’s finest.
After the bridge, follow a steeper grade for another half-mile to reach an intersection with the Lawn Lake Trail and continue up until you see Keyboard of the Winds Ridge on your left. Make sure you stop at Dream Lake and take everything in, from the crystal clear water to Hallett Peak off in the distance.
Here you can either turn back or further your adventure to Lake Haiyaha and then Emerald lake which both are breath-taking in their own ways. Though this is one of the most popular hikes within Rocky Mountain National Park, hiking in winter means you are likely to enjoy solitude on the trail. All you need is a microspikes or snowshoes for the snowy wonderland.
Pro tip: Dream Lake is particularly pretty at sunrise and very popular with photographers!
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 426 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
8. Sprague Lake Loop
Any time of year, Sprague Lake is one of my cherished locales that doesn’t always get its due. Not only is easy to access, but you will also have a very idyllic atmosphere, especially during the sunrise. This is one of the first places I take visitors, particularly those who are less experienced hikers. I have come here even on New Year’s Day and there is no other peace like waking up with the sunrising over this very lake.
One of the best easy hikes near Estes Park and inside Rocky Mountain National Park, this loop trail is one that’s hard to beat.
This trail takes you along a 0.8 mile gentle stroll around Sprague Lake replete with benches for those days when all that peace and beauty gets to be too much eh! — offering spectacular views of the nearby mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park as well as some far-off mountain scenes from the Continental Divide.
Because the lake does have a number of marshy sections, the trail is made more accessible with numerous bridges and boardwalks that make it easy to travel for viewers of all ages. A fast and short walk for the entire family to enjoy.
- Distance: 0.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 36 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 15 minutes
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
9. Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge
In general, I love hiking to alpine lakes in Colorado (and everywhere), but among the hikes along Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park that guide book author has hiked more frequently than any other is Ute Trail. The metal deck will make a ruckus for the first couple hundred feet but then it quiets as soon as you catch a view of some stunning 360 degree mountain views. I have a special bond with this trail as I got engaged in Rocky Mountain National Park and we were so eager to be married that instead of going climbing, which is what he planned, said yes immediately then suggested hiking Fern Lake Trail!
The Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge is a great option in Rocky Mountain National Park for anyone seeking and accessible path to the Continental Divide without putting forth too much energy into an uphill climb.
The trail head starts along Trail Ridge Road — one of the prettiest drives around Denver. We walked the Ute Trail that was a centuries old migratory path used by generations of the Utes.
The ascent is a bit of rocky trail but the amazing views all around, including towards the Continental Divide and as far away at peaks in the Gore Range make this hike well worth the effort. In July, you may expect to see wildflowers displaying their full beauty.
Local Knowledge: Always check the weather before going out, as summer afternoon thunderstorms are predictable and lightning is dangerous.
- Distance: 5.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,912 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Estimated Time: 2.75 hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
10. Loch Lake Hike
Loch Lake is near and dear to me. This is the area I go through many a time while alpine climbing and each time after an exhausting ascent, always at least partly on top-rope! I sit down at The Loch for a lunch. The spot on the Glacier Gorge Trail is one of those great but also kind of secret places.
Loch Lake is a great alternative to Sky Pond as it offers nearly the same stunning views without taking on too much distance.
Any trip to Estes Park for me must include an exploration of the trails, and when I do that Loch Lake always on my list. This quiet loch, just past Alberta Falls, is a great place to picnic with plenty of shaded areas and log seeting as welll as gorgeous mountain views.
Loch Lake is a great trail that gives you options to add several harder trails like Mills and Andrews Glacier, Sky Pond etc. Or just chill by the lake and relax with breathtaking views, at your convenience.
- Distance: 5.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,072 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2.75 hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
11. Gem Lake
Though it may not be the secret that is used to, Gem Lake offers some of more peaceful hiking especially if your are able to leave early. Offering a unique view of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, this trail is great for hikers looking to explore something less traditional.
This extremely popular hike near Estes Park offers a different adventure along every section and provides incredible views throughout the four miles up to Gem Lake.
We met a ranger at the small visitor center and she recommended we hike Lumpy Ridge Trail, which begins just before you enter Rocky Mountain National Park. You will gain almost a 1,000 fee in altitude as you hike up the path. A side trip at the Twin Owls junction a few miles north of here also provides quick and expansive views back toward Longs Peak, for those seeking to lengthen their day.
Rest for a little at Gem Lake before continuing to Cow Creek Trail and Balanced Rock.
- Distance: 3.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 987 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 2 hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
12. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail
I have done the Sky Pond hike many times, sometimes as a side trip from climbing out of Lake Haiyah and other times on its own. There are a lot of beautiful sites along the trail, so while you will get some reward just by hiking this one even if you don’t reach Comanche Lake.
One of the most spectacular hikes in all of Rocky Mountain National Park is to Sky Pond, which includes fantastic waterfalls and two stunning alpine lakes. The trail is tough, but with common sense and some prior hiking experience it can be conquered thus the effort.
The trail to Sharkstooth starts at the pretty easy Glacier Gorge Trailhead. The rock is wet except for some polished spots from the sandals (or disoriented souls in tennis shoes) that come unprepared. You can tell if they get over to Barelen’s properly; blood on the rocks. The prize at the end of this section is most obviously Lake Of Glass, and although it’s a beauty in its own right you’ll want to continue even further.
Hike just a little more to access Sky Pond, where some of the more notable granite peaks such as Petit Grepon, The Sabre and Sharkstooth are. Sky Pond itself is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado, so that time and effort are definitely worth it.
Insider Tip: The process in the parking lot is long so try to arrive before 7 am if you are able. Otherwise, get ready to shuttle!
- Distance: 8.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,870 feet
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
- Fees: $25 entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park
