Best paved trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Trail is fantastic. First part follows the Longs Peak Trail through the woods. Climb is consistent and gentle, very easy. It steepens a bit once you get past the tree line, especially in the stretch immediately before the outhouse at the trail junction. After the junction you go downhill for a bit, and then have to scramble up a ~150 rockfall to reach the lake. Take your time and follow the cairns.Show more

It is open to vehicle traffic roughly from Memorial Day weekend in May through Columbus Day in October. Temporary closings may occur in early June or late fall because of snow. Occasionally it opens earlier in May. Average close date is October 23 (latest close date Dec. 2, 1933) when the Park Service gives up fighting the snow and turns the road back to Mother Nature for the winter. During winter it is closed between Many Parks Curve and the Colorado River Trailhead. Call (970) 586-1222 for the latest Park recording of the status of the road.Show more

This is a short walk on a well-maintained boardwalk with pretty views of the wetlands area and nearby mountains. Hidden Valley Creek winds through this flat area full of bushes and long grasses. Many species of birds frequent this area. Accessibility: There are paved parking spaces along the road off of Trail Ridge Road at the southeast end of the trail, but there are no designated handicapped-accessible spaces. There is a curb cut to access the trail from the parking area. The trail surface is a wooden boardwalk with edge barriers, and typically at least five feet wide. The estimated grade is flat (1% or less). This trail will likely be navigable for most wheelchairs/mobility equipment. There are benches along the route for resting.Show more

As of June 2020 this trail was reported as closed due to snow. Please note that a timed entry permit or camping reservation is required to enter ALL areas of Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail from Alpine Visitor Center up rock stairs is very short, but due to high altitude and stair-climbing, is difficult for some. Trail is very crowded depending on crowds at the Visitor Center. Show more

Note: As of October 2020, this area is closed due to wildfire. For more information, please visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm A short, paved walkway leads to an observation platform offering view of vast Forest Canyon, where the erosion work of glaciers is clearly evident, and a look at the peaks of the Continental Divide beyond. Near the overlook, watch for pikas, marmots, chipmunks, and other small mammals. Accessibility: The trail is paved and typically at least six feet wide. Although it is considered accessible on the park website, it is estimated to be steep (up to 12%). The steepest section is at about 0.1 miles. Wheelchair and stroller users may need assistance due to the steep grade.Show more