While there are plenty of trails to explore inside Rocky Mountain National Park, there are many outside the park’s boundaries that are just as beautiful. No need for a reservation or a park pass for these accessible hikes outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Mount Olympus
Length: 2.5 miles
Elevation gain: 1,438 feet
Route: Out and back
Difficulty: hard
Don’t let the short distance fool you, the climb to the top of Mt. Olympus is challenging, but offers rewarding views at the top. The summit of Mt. Olympus gives hikers a perfect view of Estes Park and the high peaks that surround the area, from Mount Meeker to Lumpy Ridge and the Mummy Range. Be sure to follow the cairns as the trail can be hard to follow.
East Portal to Sprague Lake
Length: 3.2 miles
Elevation gain: N/A
Route: Out and back
Difficulty: moderate
Access one of the most popular lakes inside the park, Sprague Lake via the Adams Tunnel East Portal trailhead. While there is no actual summit, hikers will enjoy views of the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak, Taylor Peak, and Flattop Mountain towering over Sprague Lake. Add on to your hike with the Sprague Lake loop. The loop is just under one mile and is relatively flat, making it an easy addition to your hike.
Lily Mountain Trail
Length: 4 miles
Elevation gain: 1,282 feet
Route: Out and back
Difficulty: moderate
Enjoy beautiful views of Estes Valley and Twin Sisters at the summit of Lily Mountain. The last mile before reaching the top, hikers will climb 1,000 feet in elevation, making this section the most challenging part of the hike.
Old Man Mountain
Length: ½ mile
Elevation gain: under 900 feet
Route: Out and back
Difficulty: moderate
Old Man Mountain is a historical rock peak located just outside of Estes Park. This site is one of the oldest and largest sacred Native American sites in Colorado, and its peak is a distinctive landmark from several locations in town.
A short and challenging hike to the top requires some scrambling before reaching a wide-open, rocky summit. Hikers will enjoy views of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, Lumpy Ridge, Twin Sisters, and downtown Estes Park. There is no defined trail, so the scramble heads up a gully that leads to the summit.
Lake Estes
Length: 3.8 miles
Elevation gain: minimal
Route: Loop
Difficulty: easy
For an easy stroll with beautiful views, take a walk around Lake Estes. Located in town, Lake Estes is the hub for many of the town’s recreational activities. The loop trail follows the shoreline, providing panoramic mountain views. The path is used by runners, bikers, and walkers. It is also a great place to spot deer, elk, beaver, and soaring eagles.
Kruger Rock in Hermit Park
Length: 3.7 miles
Elevation gain: 1,137 feet
Route: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
As part of the Hermit Park open space, the hike to Kruger Rock is spectacular and one of our favorite accessible hikes outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. Climb through aspen and pine to reach the beautiful views of Estes Park and the majestic peaks of RMNP. Expect some scramble as you approach the summit. Enjoy colorful wildflowers in the summer and yellowing aspens in the fall.
Stay at Valhalla Resort
Located just minutes from RMNP and downtown Estes Park, Valhalla Resort makes the perfect jumping-off point for all your hiking adventures, inside and outside the park. Easily access some of these trails from your cabin and begin your mountain experience with us! Our rustic-style cabins embrace the Colorado mountain spirit with convenient amenities including full kitchens, living areas, outdoor space, and scenic views.
Make your home away from home with Valhalla Resort!