Looking for the best easy hikes to try in RMNP? Colorado is home to the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning 415 square miles of pristine wilderness, the park boasts an incredible 300 miles of hiking trails just waiting to be explored! Best of all, many of these trails are relatively easy and perfect for beginners, making it possible to enjoy the stunning landscapes without breaking a sweat.
With so much natural beauty to discover, each visit to the park can be a unique adventure. If you’re new to hiking, the towering mountains might seem a bit intimidating at first, but don’t worry—Rocky Mountain National Park has plenty of easy trails that are accessible, enjoyable, and just right for all skill levels.
So, where should you start? Our Travel Makes Me Happy team has put together a list of the best easy hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park to help you plan your perfect outdoor escape. Let’s dive in and explore the trails that will make your next trip to Colorado truly unforgettable!
We also have a guide for Hikes near Little Rock, Arkansas and Smoky Mountain National Park hikes if you’ll be in those areas too!
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- Our favorite easy hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- 1. Adams Falls Trail
- Alberta Falls
- Alluvial Fan Trail
- Alpine Ridge Trail
- Bear Lake Loop
- Bierstadt Lake
- Copeland Falls to Calypso Cascades Hike
- Lily Lake Loop
- Sprague Lake
- Easy Hikes Essential Packing List Items:
- FAQs About Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Bottom Line on These Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Find The Best Hotel Near Rocky Mountain National Park
- Read on for More Recent Travel Tips and Articles
Don’t forget to pack a backpack for essentials when hiking! We love this inexpensive packable 40L backpack from Amazon because it is a perfect size to fit everything for our hikes!
Our favorite easy hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
Watch our video short of our favorite RMNP hikes on YouTube!
1. Adams Falls Trail
This is a relatively flat trail that follows along the East Inlet of Grand Lake leading to Adams Falls, a 55-foot waterfall. The hike to the falls is relatively short, but there’s an option to continue along the trail which brings you to views of the river, Lone Pine Lake, Lake Verna and Spirit Lake.
- Distance: 0.9 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 200 feet
- Trailhead Location: East Inlet Trailhead near Grand Lake
- Highlights: A gentle hike leading to the scenic Adams Falls, with opportunities to extend the hike to meadows and additional lakes.
Alberta Falls
Enjoy the beautiful aspen trees and mountain views. The trail leads you to a 30-foot waterfall, Alberta Falls, that plunges down into a gorge. Be mindful that this is a muti-purpose trail, meaning you are likely to cross paths with hikers, runners, horseback riders, and even snowshoes.
- Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 200 feet
- Trailhead Location: Glacier Gorge Trailhead
- Highlights: A popular trail leading to the impressive 30-foot Alberta Falls, especially vibrant during spring and early summer.
Alluvial Fan Trail
This unassuming stop is breathtaking once you round the trail to take in the full site of the water rushing over the huge boulder field! If you decide to climb the boulders to the top of the falls make sure you have good treaded shoes because we slipped quite a few times. The surrounding area is also a great lunch spot on or near huge boulders at the entrance to this trail!
TIP: There is an awesome bridge to view the Endovalley area or the falls and it makes a great photo spot! Also, the trail has been widened and has a cushioned material making it even easier to hike!
- Distance: 0.5 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 50 feet
- Trailhead Location: Endovalley Road
- Highlights: Features a cascading waterfall over boulders, resulting from a historic flood. The area offers unique geological insights and is a favorite for families.
Our Favorite Rocky Mountain National Park Tours to try:
- Rocky Mountain National Park Safari Truck Tour
- Rocky Mountain Escape Tour
- Half-Day RMNP Mountains to Sky Tour-Photographer’s dream!
Alpine Ridge Trail
While this hike is short, it’s a slight climb. This trail leads to the peak of the path and outstanding mountain peak viewing point, that’s so worth the elevation gain! Due to the elevation gain, it is highly suggested to travel with a jacket, as the peak can be rather windy and cold, even in the summer months.
- Distance: 0.6 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 200 feet
- Trailhead Location: Alpine Visitor Center, off Trail Ridge Road
- Highlights: This short but steep trail, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the alpine tundra and surrounding peaks. At over 12,000 feet in elevation, it’s one of the highest trails in the park, providing a unique perspective of this extraordinary landscape.
- Most Photogenic Spot: At the summit, capture sweeping views of the Mountains and Trail Ridge Road snaking through the landscape below. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.
Bear Lake Loop
Flat, easy hiking, well-marked, gorgeous views, and frequent wildlife sightings: it’s no wonder why this trail is so popular, especially with beginning hikers. This short loop hugs the shores of stunning Bear Lake, while also providing views of Glacier Gorge, Longs Peak, Half Mountain and Hallet Peak.
- Distance: 0.6 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Trailhead Location: Bear Lake Trailhead
- Highlights: This short loop offers picturesque views of Bear Lake with reflections of surrounding peaks. The well-maintained path is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible.
- Most Photogenic Spot: Capture the stunning reflection of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain on the calm waters of Bear Lake, especially during sunrise.
Bierstadt Lake
Bierstadt Lake Trail offers some elevation gain within the first mile, making it a good choice for beginner hikers seeking a short-distance challenge. After the initial incline the loop around the lake offers a nice easy walk, with potential picnic and reflection spots. Throughout the trail soak up the views of Bierstadt Lake and, upon reaching the opposite side of the lake, incredible mountain views as well.
- Distance: 3.2 miles round-trip (via Bierstadt Lake Trailhead)
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 675 feetTrailhead Location: Bierstadt Lake Trailhead on Bear Lake Road
- Highlights: The Bierstadt Lake Trail offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views. The trail winds through a serene forest and opens up to Bierstadt Lake, a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Continental Divide. It’s a great spot for a peaceful picnic or to simply soak in the stunning scenery.
- Most Photogenic Spot: The lakeshore provides the perfect backdrop for capturing reflections of the towering mountain peaks in the calm water, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Copeland Falls to Calypso Cascades Hike
Pass several small streams on your well-shaded journey to multiple, breath-taking, waterfall views. Starting with Lower Copeland Falls, then navigating a short side trail to view Upper Copeland Falls, and other waterways along the North St. Vrain Creek before arriving at the Calypso Cascades. The Cascades create a refreshing backdrop to the beautiful forest and mountain views.
- Length of Trail: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal - Trailhead Location: Wild Basin Trailhead
- Highlights: A serene forested path leading to the picturesque Copeland Falls, with options to continue to Calypso Cascades for a longer hike.
- Most Photogenic Spot: The lower falls, where water streams through moss-covered rocks, creating a tranquil scene.
Lily Lake Loop
Take in the fresh pine air, calm lake vibes and mountain views along Lily Lake Trail. The entire trail is flat, spacious, and also paved in sections, making it a great choice if wheelchair or stroller accessibility is essential for your hiking group. This loop offers many opportunities and locations to stop for a snack and relaxation throughout too.
- Distance: 0.8 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Trailhead Location: Lily Lake Trailhead
- Highlights: A flat loop around Lily Lake, offering views of Longs Peak and abundant wildflowers during the summer months. It’s a great birdwatching spot as well
Sprague Lake
Take in impressive mountain and water views along this short hiking trail before pausing at the picnic area to relax. Due to the vast variety of mountain sightseeing, as well as aspen grove hillsides and the surrounding lake, that can be done along this route it truly gives beginner hikers a great taste of all that Rocky Mountain National Park is known for. Sprague Lake Loop is open year-round and fully accessible (wheelchairs and strollers).
- Distance: 0.5 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Trailhead Location: Sprague Lake Picnic Area
- Highlights: A flat, easy trail encircling Sprague Lake, providing panoramic mountain vistas. Ideal for sunrise or sunset walks, and excellent for birdwatching.
- Sightseeing Highlights on the Trail:
- –Wildlife Sightings (Moose)
- –Mountain Views (Half Mountain, Thatchtop Mountain, Otis Peak, Flattop Mountain, Taylor Peak, Notchtop Mountain, and Hallett Peak)
Easy Hikes Essential Packing List Items:
Whether you’re trying out one of our easy hikes around Lily lake or hiking up to a scenic waterfall, being prepared ensures your hike is enjoyable and safe. Here’s are some must-have packing list for easy hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Waterproof Hiking Boots – We love Merrell moab II mid waterproof hiking boot women’s and Merrell Moab II mid waterproof hiking boot men’s (Amazon) because they are comfortable all day.
- Portable Phone Charger – Protect your phone from going dead when you need it for a photo op! The Portable Fast Charger with Built-in Cables is budget-friendly!
- Waterproof wind jacket – We love the budget-friendly 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell Jacket Waterproof Lightweight Insulated Windbreaker Fleece Lined for men or women.
- Waterproof Binoculars – The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars (Amazon) are waterproof and easy to pack with easy focus too!
- Hydration Backpack – The Everfun Hydration Backpack, 18 L Lightweight Hiking Backpack with 2L/3L Water Bladder, Water Backpack because it has hydration plus has space for hiking essentials.
- Packable Hat – Our favorite Amazon one is Sunday Afternoons Unisex Ultra-Adventure Hat because it is easily packable and has neck protection.
- Hiking First Aid Kit – The RHINO RESCUE Small First Aid Kit Ultralight Waterproof Medical Kit for Hiking
- High Protein Snacks – We recommend BUILT Puff Protein Bars High Protein Bars (Brownie Batter is our favorite!) on Amazon.
FAQs About Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
The best time for hiking in the park is late spring through early fall (May to October). During this period, lower trails are mostly snow-free, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather is mild. Summer offers the best access to high-elevation trails, while fall showcases stunning aspen foliage. Always check weather and trail conditions before heading out, as sudden Colorado weather changes are common.
Yes! Several trails in Rocky Mountain National Park are wheelchair-accessible or stroller-friendly, including Bear Lake Loop, Sprague Lake Loop, and Lily Lake Loop. These trails are flat, well-maintained, and perfect for enjoying scenic views without strenuous effort.
No, unfortunately, pets are not allowed on any trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, including the easy ones. This helps protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Pets are permitted in designated areas like campgrounds, picnic spots, and along roads, but must be leashed at all times.
Arrive as early as possible—preferably by 8:00 AM—especially during the peak summer months. Popular trailheads like Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge fill up quickly. If you can’t arrive early, consider using the park’s free shuttle service, which operates along Bear Lake Road and provides access to several trailheads.
Yes, during peak times a timed entry reservation may be required and can be reserved on the RMNP Website here.
Bottom Line on These Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
We love hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park and try to go at least once a year (or more)! So many of the trails are an easy hike and we love just being out in nature enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Have you explored any of these hiking trails? Which will be at the top of your bucket list? Drop us a line and let us know your favorites!