Discover the Best Hiking Trails Near Rocky Mountain National Park

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Harper Sullivan
May 31, 2024

TL;DR: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park's stunning trails, like Emerald Lake, Sky Pond, and Bear Lake Loop, from the comfort of your RV. Stay at unique Harvest Hosts for an unforgettable adventure. Perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Discover the Best Hiking Trails Near Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcome to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, where the air is crisp and the mountain views are unmatched. If you're venturing out from Denver in your RV, you've picked a fantastic base to explore some of Colorado's most breathtaking trails. Here’s a roundup of the best trails near the park, perfectly suited for those staying at nearby RV parks in Denver or around. For more information about RV camping in Colorado and what it has to offer, keep reading below!

Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

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1. Emerald Lake Trail

Emerald Lake Trail is a friendly, scenic route for families and casual hikers. Stretching a little over 3 miles round trip, it guides you past a series of stunning alpine lakes, culminating with a spectacular view at Emerald Lake itself – one of the most famous in Rocky Mountain National Park!

2. Sky Pond Trail

For those who relish a challenge, Sky Pond Trail is a must. This 9-mile journey offers striking views of waterfalls, lush landscapes, and the imposing Sharkstooth. It’s tough but incredibly rewarding.

3. Bear Lake Loop

Bear Lake Loop is as easy as it is beautiful. This 0.6-mile stroll is perfect if you’re looking for minimal effort with maximum payoff—ideal for families or anyone wanting a quick nature fix.

4. Hallett Peak

For the experienced hiker, Hallett Peak offers a rigorous 10-mile return trip that rewards with panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide and expansive Rocky Mountains.

5. The Loch Vale Trail

Moderately challenging, The Loch Vale Trail is a 5.4-mile trek that leads you to one of the park’s most gorgeous subalpine lakes known as The Loch, where the water reflects the sky like a giant mirror.

RV Camping Tip: Many RV campgrounds in Denver, CO, are just a short drive from the park’s entrance, combining convenience with natural beauty. Visiting Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, or Colorado during the winter? Check out our recommended Colorado skiing trips.

Enhance Your Stay with Unique Harvest Hosts Locations

Why not make your RV trip extra special by staying at unique Harvest Host locations near Rocky Mountain National Park? Here are three fantastic options:

Los Rios Farm

Type: Farm
v34ZUZJnIw0pPx3b_0d49761fc39880f21d6746efd200a59c_medium.jpeg Enjoy heritage tomatoes and fresh produce at Los Rios Farm in Berthoud, a charming town on the park’s doorstep.
More about this host

Artisian You

Type: Attraction GKqU87rxwSHeTdDI_21d89f9aca49835c1ece7f3a4cdbfef3_medium.jpg Artisan You offers pottery painting, glass fusing, and clay hand building for walk-in customers of all ages. Or check out the finished pieces for sale, including fused glass jewelry, ceramic mugs, banks, dishes, etc. More about this host

Purpose Brewing and Cellars

Type: Breweries & Distilleries jAFmUQBK6f3WewmJ_e0e762c94d5d24078dac573a6b678e26_medium.jpeg Explore this one-of-a-kind brewery in Fort Collins. Explore their cellar, with 80 or so barrels maturing each their own brew into a piece of beauty. The barrels are just waiting their turn to amaze you. More about this host

More Hiking and Adventure

Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike. By pairing your hike with a stay at one of Denver’s RV parks or a unique Harvest Host location, you’re sure to have a memorable adventure in the heart of Colorado’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adrenaline-pumping trails, these spots offer something for every RVer. Interested in other hiking adventures? Check out more hiking near Harvest Hosts locations to plan your next journey through the great outdoors. Expand your adventure by exploring various terrains, from high mountain peaks to rolling hills, each trail offering unique perspectives and challenges.

About Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a unique RV camping membership that offers self-contained RVers unlimited overnight stays at over 5,724 small businesses across North America with no camping fees. Boondock at farms, wineries, breweries, attractions, and other one-of-a-kind destinations throughout North America, and you’ll get peace of mind knowing that a safe place to stay is always nearby!
Harper Sullivan-profile-image
Harper Sullivan
Harper Sullivan is a six-foot-tall adventurous travel writer with an untamed spirit. She lives out of a Ford Transit, chronicling her experiences from the rocky terrains of The Rockies to the rim of the Grand Canyon. Contributing to the Harvest Hosts, CampersCard, CampScanner blog; Harper's writings blend vivid travel experiences with insightful reviews and pop culture references. Her engaging storytelling invites readers on an extraordinary journey, making every camping escapade a thrilling adventure.