Fall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Fall in Colorado is one of the best times to visit the Centennial State. With an abundance of colorful fall foliage, wildlife, and plenty of hiking trails with beautiful scenery. Barely break a sweat and discover the best of the fall season with these five easy fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Alberta Falls
For the ultimate in Colorado fall beauty, begin at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and follow the trail up to Alberta Falls. Found in one of the most scenic areas of Rocky Mountain National Park, this trail is sure to not disappoint. Hike amongst thick aspen groves, rushing creek, mountain peaks, all of which lead to the cascading waterfall. This easy 2.8-mile trail is found southwest of Estes Park, just south of Bear Lake.
Bear Lake
No matter what the season, a hike around Bear Lake is always breathtaking. The quick and easy loop captures colorful aspens reflecting off the lake with a contrasting backdrop of granite mountain peaks. The 0.7-mile loop is flat and is accessed from Bear Lake Road, which in and of itself is a spectacular drive in the fall. Begin at Moraine Park and head up Bear Lake Road for beautiful views from either side of the road.
Wild Basin Trail
Escape the crowds and explore one of the more remote parts of the Rocky Mountain National Park, with the Wild Basin Trail. Be rewarded quickly with stunning visuals of fall and an impressive collection of waterfalls along the way, with Calypso Cascades, Copeland Falls, and Ouzel Falls.
Read here for more on how to enjoy Estes Park in the fall.
Upper Beaver Meadows
Bring the entire family for a hike through Upper Beaver Meadows. This relatively flat 5-mile loop trail guides hikers through the beautiful Beaver Meadows. It offers views of Longs Peak and the mountains along the Continental Divide. While you are bound to see some fall colors, the real reason to make this one of your fall hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park is to see the elk that graze these meadows. During the fall elk are more active with them in the middle of their rutting season.
Alpine Ridge Trail
Feel like you are on the top of the world with a hike along the Alpine Ridge Trail, leaving from the Alpine Visitor’s Center atop Trail Ridge Road. The 0.6-mile, out and back, the hike reaches an elevation of 12,005 feet, offering expansive views above treeline. In the summer this trail is blooming with seasonal florals. In the fall hikers are greeted with patches of fall colors everywhere.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Start planning your trip to see the fall colors in Rocky Mountain National Park by browsing our vacation rentals at Rocky Mountain Resorts. Our affordable accommodations are just minutes away from downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Choose from cozy cabins, vacation condos, and cottages for your next mountain getaway. Be sure to also check out our seasonal specials to see how you can save on your already budget-friendly rental at Rocky Mountain Resorts.
