Member-only story

Day Overnight Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park: Your Guide to the Best Backcountry Adventures

Junot Díaz

·6.1k Followers· Follow

Published in Day Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

5 min read · 3 weeks before

349 View Claps

28 Respond

Save

Listen

Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 355 miles of trails winding through its pristine wilderness. While there are many day hikes to choose from, overnight hikes offer a unique opportunity to experience the park's stunning scenery and abundant wildlife in a more immersive way.

Day & Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

by Kim Lipker

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	29385 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

This guide will introduce you to the best day overnight hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, providing detailed descriptions, difficulty ratings, and tips for planning your trip. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a weekend warrior, you're sure to find the perfect hike to match your abilities and interests.

Loch Vale Trail

Length: 6.6 miles

Elevation gain: 1,100 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

Description: The Loch Vale Trail is one of the most popular day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of Loch Vale, a beautiful alpine lake nestled below the towering peaks of the Mummy Range. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.

A Hiker On The Loch Vale Trail, With Loch Vale In The Background Day Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

Emerald Lake Trail

Length: 3.5 miles

Elevation gain: 650 feet

Difficulty: Easy

Description: The Emerald Lake Trail is a short and easy hike that leads to one of the most beautiful lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail follows the Crystal River through a lush forest, before emerging at the stunning Emerald Lake. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

A Hiker On The Emerald Lake Trail, With Emerald Lake In The Background Day Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

Chasm Lake Trail

Length: 8.5 miles

Elevation gain: 2,400 feet

Difficulty: Strenuous

Description: The Chasm Lake Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that leads to one of the most iconic lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail climbs steeply through a series of switchbacks, before reaching the breathtaking Chasm Lake. The lake is surrounded by sheer cliffs and towering peaks, creating a truly awe-inspiring scene.

A Hiker On The Chasm Lake Trail, With Chasm Lake In The Background Day Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

Sky Pond Trail

Length: 7.2 miles

Elevation gain: 2,400 feet

Difficulty: Strenuous

Description: The Sky Pond Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of the park's iconic peaks, including Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, and Mount Meeker. The trail is challenging, but the payoff is worth it.

A Hiker On The Sky Pond Trail, With Sky Pond In The Background Day Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

Tips for Planning Your Trip

Here are a few tips to help you plan your day overnight hike in Rocky Mountain National Park:

Book your campsite in advance. Campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park are in high demand, so it's important to book your site as early as possible.
Be prepared for all types of weather. The weather in Rocky Mountain National Park can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared for all types of weather, including rain, snow, and wind.
Bring plenty of water. It's important to stay hydrated when hiking, especially at high altitudes. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you, or plan to fill up your water bottle along the trail.
Wear appropriate footwear. Hiking boots are essential for day overnight hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Be sure to wear boots that are supportive and comfortable.
Leave no trace. Be sure to pack out all of your trash and leave the campsite clean for the next hiker.

Day overnight hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park offer a unique opportunity to experience the park's stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. With so many great hikes to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect hike to match your abilities and interests. Just be sure to plan your trip in advance and be prepared for all types of weather.

Day & Overnight Hikes: Rocky Mountain National Park

by Kim Lipker

4.5 out of 5