Best Summer Hiking Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Whether you're craving a gentle lakeside stroll or a challenging alpine adventure, this guide features three unforgettable hikes away from the crowds of the Bear Lake area, organized by difficulty.
Plus, don’t miss important details about Timed Entry Permit regulations and how to secure your entrance pass before heading into the park.
Best Easy, Moderate, and Hard Hiking Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park Away from the Crowds at Bear Lake
Easy: Lily Lake Loop - A peaceful gem with Stunning Rocky Mountain Views
Distance: 0.8-mile loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Starting Elevation: ~8,930 feet
Trailhead: Lily Lake Parking Area (no shuttle required)
Timed Entry Needed: Yes, daily 9 am - 2 pm
Lily Lake is the perfect introduction to hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. Located just south of Estes Park, this flat, gravel trail circles a serene alpine lake with dramatic views of Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. It’s ideal for families, beginner hikers, or those adjusting to the altitude. Enjoy wildflowers, birds, and the occasional moose sighting in this peaceful escape.
And the best part? Lily Lake is outside the Bear Lake Corridor, so you get to sleep in a little. Timed entry required, 9 am - 2 pm, 7 days a week. A valid entrance pass is also required in addition to a timed entry permit.
Moderate: Mills Lake – Waterfalls, Wildlife & Alpine Splendor
Distance: 5.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: ~750 feet
Starting Elevation: ~9,240 feet
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge (requires Bear Lake Corridor timed entry permit)
Timed Entry Needed: Yes, 5 a.m.–6 p.m.
Mills Lake is one of the most rewarding moderate hikes in the park. After a cascading waterfall at Alberta Falls, the trail climbs gently through pine forest and opens up to a spectacular subalpine lake framed by jagged peaks.
This is a great summer hike for those seeking beauty and solitude beyond the crowds of Bear Lake. Start early to enjoy still water and mountain reflections and to secure parking at Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Park shuttle access is available to this trailhead. Drive to the Park and Ride in the Bear Lake Corridor, park your car, and take a FREE shuttle to several different trailheads along Bear Lake Road. The shuttle is very convenient and runs daily from 6:30 am - 7:30 pm. from May 23rd - October 19th.
Timed entry required 5 am - 6 pm, 7 days a week. A valid entrance pass is also required in addition to a timed entry permit.
Hard: Bluebird Lake – Wild & Remote Alpine Splendor
Distance: 12.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: ~2,500 feet
Starting Elevation: ~8,500 feet
Trailhead: Wild Basin Trailhead (in a very remote location, outside shuttle system)
Timed Entry Needed: Yes, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Ready for a true backcountry adventure? Bluebird Lake in the Wild Basin area offers rugged terrain, cascading creeks, and high-alpine solitude. You’ll pass Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls before reaching the pristine lake nestled below Ouzel Peak. Wild Basin is one of the most remote areas of Rocky Mountain National Park so you’ll have plenty of solitude.
This hike is not for the faint of heart, but for those who put in the effort, the reward is unbeatable.
Note, that this trail rocky, rugged, and exposed for the last several miles. Be sure to check the weather. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms which can come in quickly and be severe. Pack the 10 essentials and enjoy the views.
Timed entry required, 9 am - 2 pm, 7 days a week. A valid entrance pass is also required in addition to a timed entry permit.
How to Get a Timed Entry Permit for Rocky Mountain National Park
From May 24 to October 20, 2025, Timed Entry Permits are required to access much of Rocky Mountain National Park between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m.
There are two permit types:
Bear Lake Corridor + Full Park Access
Park Access (Excludes Bear Lake Corridor)
Reserve your permit through Recreation.gov
Reservations open at 8 a.m. MDT one month in advance of your visit date.
Tip: A limited number of permits are released at 7 p.m. the night before your intended entry.
Park Entrance Pass Required (in addition to timed entry) for Rocky Mountain National Park
All visitors also need a valid Park Entrance Pass, which you can purchase:
At any park entrance station
Online via Recreation.gov
Final Tips for Summer Hiking in RMNP
Start early: Beat afternoon storms and secure parking.
Pack the 10 Essentials: Especially if attempting Bluebird Lake.
Leave No Trace: Stay on trail, pack out trash, respect wildlife.
Hydrate & Acclimate: You're hiking at altitude so go slow and pack plenty of water + electrolytes and plenty of snacks.
Ready for an Unforgettable Guided Hiking Experience in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Let Femme Trek take the lead with our guided hiking tours designed by women, for women in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Whether you're new to hiking or a seasoned trekker, our expert-led tours offer:
Scenic trails matched to your experience level
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