Looking to channel your inner mountain goat? Look no further than Rocky Mountain National Park! This place is a hiker’s paradise with over 350 miles of hiking trails. But beware—these aren’t your grandma’s Sunday strolls—these are rugged, rocky paths that will test your endurance and leave you breathless (both from the views and the altitude).
I’ve lived in Colorado for 7 years, and I’ve, of course, been to Rocky Mountain National Park before. However, I’ve never been there for more than 2 days, and most of the time, it was just a day trip and then back to Denver (LINK things to do in Denver). But this summer, I had the opportunity to spend 6 days hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park in what I like to call a ‘Near-cation’!
When Adventures in Good Company, a women’s adventure tour company, asked me to go on one of their trips, I decided that a week in Rocky Mountain National Park would be perfect for a summer near-cation. Their Peak Pursuits trip was their hardest difficulty level trip, covering 6 high-altitude hikes in 6 days and 50+ miles. I loved the idea of a challenge, and I was really excited to be introduced to the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
6 Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
These six hikes were planned with altitude acclimation in mind. Each hike got harder and higher in altitude each day! Whichever hikes you decide to do, don’t take the altitude for granted.
The list also includes some popular trails and some lesser-known trails. Consider hiking to the less-traveled parts of the park. You’ll feel like a true wilderness explorer while avoiding the masses. However, also note that these hikes are for people who really love to hike. They are all moderate to difficult hikes.
1. Mills Lake Hike
Max elevation 9,900 ft.
5 Miles (out and back)
700 ft. elevation gain
Hike to Mills Lake for a great acclimation hike in the park. The lake is named for Enos Mills, the man commonly referred to as the “father of Rocky Mountain National Park.” You’ll pass by waterfalls and eventually end up at the lake, where you can find a quiet place to take a dip or have lunch. However, this hike is probably the busiest of all the ones on the list, so be prepared for more people.
Also – this is a great winter snowshoe hike, and there’s virtually no one there in the winter!
More Information Mills Lake Hike
2. Odessa Lake via Fern Lake Hike
Max elevation 10,000 ft.
8.8 Miles (out and back)
1,865 ft….
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Ottsworld Unique Travel Experiences…