When you think of the Rocky Mountains, you may think of exhilarating hikes and pristine mountain lakes. For these, no trail in the park is better than the Emerald Lake Trail. The trail packs some amazing scenery into it’s approximately 3.2 mile out and back journey. Along the way, you’ll pass by the smaller Nymph Lake, Dream Lake and then on to Emerald Lake. Each one is unique and picturesque. The crown jewel is at the end. Emerald Lake is stunning, surrounded by mountain peaks and alpine forests. You can swim in the lake, although be mindful that the water will be extremely cold. The trail is the most popular in the park, so you’re likely to encounter many other visitors depending on the time of day and year. Park at the Bear Lake parking lot and take the Nymph Lake Trail to get there.

Linking the towns of Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west, Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in the United States. Crossing the Continental Divide at more than 12,000 feet, it’s one of the most unique drives in the country. Alpine forests, meadows and elk give way to tundra and bighorn sheep as you ascend the road. Due to its elevation, weather can be unpredictable any time of year and it’s closed during the fall and winter or as weather requires. Because of the lack of trees, you have unobstructed views of the mountains, valleys and lakes in the area. The lack of trees also makes it a great place to stop for stargazing. The town of Estes Park is a dark-sky city, so there’s little light pollution to obstruct your views.

For an easy hike with some great views, check out the Alberta Falls Trail. Here you’ll find a mountain waterfall cutting through the beautiful alpine forest in a scene as picturesque as any you’ll find. The trail is only a little more than a mile roundtrip and only about a 160 foot elevation gain. The trail is one of the most popular in the park, so you’re likely to encounter other visitors during the busy times. The trail, like others in the park, is also accessible in the winter. Check conditions as you’ll likely need either spikes of snowshoes.