| Loop Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park |
As a result of Rocky Mountain National Park's rugged terrain there are a limited number of loop hikes that exist for day hikers - relative to the number of miles of trails in the park. Of course there are numerous loop opportunities for those wishing to venture into the backcountry and overnight at one of the many backcountry campsites. However, if you prefer the creature comforts of civilization at night, below are a few suggestions for those wishing to do loop hikes. Immediately below are seven easy loop hikes, and further down the page are seven moderate and strenuous loops. Both lists are sorted in order of what I consider to be the most scenic hikes.
Moraine Park Loop: This is a great introductory hike for anyone that's new to the park, or those looking for an easy hike, or those looking for something at the lower elevations while acclimating to the park's altitude. The loop offers spectacular views of Snowdrift Peak and Stones Peak as they tower above the valley floor. You also stand a great chance of seeing elk as well.
Aspenglen Loop: Despite this being a horse trail, meaning lots of horse manure along the route, the Aspenglen Loop near the Fall River Entrance Station is really a hidden gem. This short loop offers spectacular views of the Mummy Mountains, a plethora of wildflowers, as well as a great opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife. If you wish to avoid trails with the heaviest horse traffic, you'll have the option of starting your hike from Deer Ridge Junction, which travels along some of the same paths, and offers similar scenery as the Aspenglen Loop.
Bierstadt Lake Loop: Although the trail gains roughly 600 feet over the course of its first mile, the overall short distance still qualifies this as an easy hike. The grand views of the Continental Divide from the shores of this scenic lake make the effort worth it.
Sprague Lake Loop: Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park don't get much easier than this. This completely flat 0.9-mile loop offers outstanding views of the Continental Divide. If you enjoy photography, I highly recommend starting this one in the early morning in order to give you a chance to go home with some great photos of reflections of the mountains in the water.
Bear Lake Nature Trail: The Bear Lake area is one of the most popular places in the entire park. To avoid the extreme crowds, and to possibly see some spectacular reflections of Hallett Peak and Longs Peak in the water, I highly recommend starting this hike first thing in the morning.
Lily Lake Loop: The Lily Lake Loop is another easy hike, and is suitable for the entire family. The hike offers outstanding views of Lily Mountain, Estes Cone, as well as Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak, the two highest peaks in Rocky Mountain National Park. The lake is also a great setting for a picnic.
Lily Ridge Loop: Provides hikers with the opportunity to view Lily Lake and the surrounding mountains from a higher vantage point.
| Moderate and Strenuous Loop Hikes |
Baker Pass-Parika Lake Loop: This fantastic hike travels into the heart of the Never Summer Mountains, located just west of Rocky Mountain National Park. Although the hike begins along Trail Ridge Road in RMNP, this area sees relatively few visitors. This is a big mistake for those who seek awesome scenery, as the trail visits some absolutely beautiful spots, including Baker Pass and Parika Lake.
Lumpy Ridge Loop: Wow! The views of and from the MacGregor Ranch were simply outstanding. In addition to great views of Longs Peak and the Estes Park area, the loop visits Gem Lake and Paul Bunyan's Boot.
Four Lakes Loop: As you might expect from the name, the so called "Four Lakes Loop" visits four subalpine lakes in the Bear Lake area. It also visits the extremely popular Alberta Falls along this spectacular one-way loop hike.
Upper Beaver Meadows Loop: Expansive views of Longs Peak and the mountains along the Continental Divide await you from the montane grassy meadows along this one-way loop hike.
Boulder Brook Loop: Check out the cascades on Boulder Brook as it tumbles off Longs Peak. The rocky gorge along Glacier Creek is quite nice as well. This is an excellent choice if you're seeking a bit of solitude in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Hollowell Park Loop: This loop offers a little bit of everything to hikers. You'll travel though Hollowell Park, Moraine Park and Mill Creek Basin. Along the way you'll enjoy panoramic views, a great deal of solitude during many stretches, a steep climb to stretch out the legs, and you'll visit a popular lake.
Green Mountain-Onahu Creek Loop: Looking for some solitude? This a great loop hike if you're wishing to get away from it all. This route visits Big Meadows, passes an old homesteaders cabin, and then travels through the fairly remote Onahu Creek area.
If you're looking for some additional ideas to help plan your hiking itinerary, check out our list of the Top 10 Hikes or the the Best Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
While planning your visit, be sure to visit our accommodations page for a variety of lodging options in the Rocky Mountain National Park area.
