Do you dream of towering peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and wildlife roaming free? Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) offers all this and more! But when you look at the map, it feels like there are a million trails. Which one should you choose?
Picking the perfect hike in RMNP can be tough. Some trails are too crowded, others are too long for your family, and you worry about getting lost or not seeing the best views. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices and worry about wasting a precious day in this amazing park. You want adventure, but you also want success!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best hikes in RMNP, matching them to your skill level and what you want to see. You will learn insider tips on avoiding crowds and finding hidden gems. Get ready to trade that stress for stunning photos and incredible memories!
Top Hikes Rmnp Recommendations
- Dannen, Kent (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 154 Pages - 05/01/2020 (Publication Date) - Falcon Guides (Publisher)
- Dannen, Kent (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 256 Pages - 04/01/2020 (Publication Date) - Falcon Guides (Publisher)
- 78 day hikes ranked by Jake
- Color coded trails indicate trail steepness
- Accurate descriptions give you a sense of the hike
- Distances labeled between junctions and/or features
- Family friendly and accessible hikes labeled
- Leonard, Brendan (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 208 Pages - 04/13/2021 (Publication Date) - Mountaineers Books (Publisher)
- Bedh: Rocky Mtn Nat Park
- Dannen, Kent (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 152 Pages - 06/17/2014 (Publication Date) - Falcon Guides (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Malitz, Jerome (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 01/24/1993 (Publication Date) - Cordillera Pr (Publisher)
- Rogers, Patricia V. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 141 Pages - 04/25/2025 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Amazon Kindle Edition
- Team at 10Adventures (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 133 Pages - 07/08/2020 (Publication Date) - 10Adventures.com Inc (Publisher)
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) Hikes
Planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park? Getting the right gear makes all the difference! This guide helps you choose the best items for your RMNP adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for hiking gear for RMNP, certain features really matter. Look for items that offer flexibility.
- Weather Versatility: RMNP weather changes fast. You might see sun, snow, and rain all in one day. Look for layers that you can easily add or remove.
- Traction and Grip: Trails can be rocky, muddy, or icy, even in summer at higher elevations. Good traction on shoes or poles prevents slips.
- Visibility: Bright colors on clothing or backpacks help others see you if you get separated from your group.
- Water Resistance/Proofing: Keep your feet and electronics dry. Water resistance is a must for sudden afternoon thunderstorms.
Important Materials That Matter
The stuff your gear is made of controls how long it lasts and how it performs.
Footwear Materials
For hiking boots or shoes, look for durable leather or strong synthetic fabrics. Waterproof membranes, like Gore-Tex, keep water out. The sole should have thick rubber for better grip.
Clothing Materials
Avoid cotton! Cotton holds moisture and chills you when wet. Choose synthetic materials like polyester or nylon for quick drying. Wool is great for socks because it stays warm even when damp.
Backpack Materials
Packs should use tough, lightweight nylon, often Ripstop nylon. This material resists tearing when it rubs against sharp rocks or tree branches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality gear lasts longer and keeps you safer. Poor quality gear can fail when you need it most.
What Makes Gear Better?
- Stitching and Seams: Look for double-stitched seams on backpacks and jackets. Taped seams on waterproof gear stop water from leaking through the needle holes.
- Adjustability: Boots with multiple lacing points allow you to customize the fit. Backpack straps that adjust easily distribute weight better.
- Ventilation: Jackets and packs with mesh panels or zippered vents help hot air escape. This stops you from getting too sweaty.
What Lowers the Quality?
Thin plastic buckles on backpacks break easily, especially in cold weather. Thin, flimsy soles on shoes wear out quickly on rough RMNP terrain. Cheap zippers often snag or fail mid-hike.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use the item in RMNP.
Day Hikes vs. Backpacking
If you are only doing short day hikes near Bear Lake, a light daypack (15-30 liters) is perfect. If you plan overnight trips into the backcountry, you need a larger, more structured pack (50+ liters) to carry a tent and food. Comfort is key for long days.
Trail Difficulty
Easy, paved trails require less aggressive footwear. Steep, high-altitude trails above the tree line demand stiff, supportive boots. Hiking poles greatly improve stability on slippery or steep ascents and descents.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About RMNP Hiking Gear
Q: Do I really need waterproof boots for summer hikes?
A: Yes. Summer storms bring heavy rain and often cross small streams or wet meadows. Waterproof boots keep your feet dry and comfortable all day.
Q: What is the most important piece of clothing to buy for RMNP?
A: A waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket. This protects you from strong winds and unexpected rain at high elevations.
Q: Are hiking poles necessary for RMNP?
A: They are highly recommended. Poles save your knees on long downhill sections and help maintain balance on rocky or icy spots.
Q: How much water should I carry per person?
A: Plan to carry at least 2 liters of water per person for a half-day hike. If it is hot or you are climbing high, carry more.
Q: What size backpack do I need for a 4-hour hike?
A: A small daypack, usually between 20 and 30 liters, holds your water, snacks, extra layers, and safety gear perfectly.
Q: Is cotton acceptable for base layers?
A: No. Cotton absorbs sweat and dries slowly. This can lead to hypothermia, even on a cool summer day.
Q: Should I buy lightweight trail runners or sturdy hiking boots?
A: For established, lower-elevation trails, trail runners are fine. For rough terrain, scrambling, or carrying heavy loads, sturdy boots offer better ankle support.
Q: What material is best for hiking socks?
A: Wool or synthetic blends are the best choices. They wick moisture away from your skin, preventing painful blisters.
Q: How do I protect my electronics from the weather?
A: Use dry bags or heavy-duty zip-top plastic bags inside your backpack. Cold temperatures also drain batteries faster, so keep phones near your body heat.
Q: When should I use microspikes on my shoes?
A: Microspikes are essential if you hike early in the season (May/June) or late (October/November) when shaded, north-facing slopes still hold ice patches.