Can you hike in Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter?

Winter brings deep snows to Rocky Mountain National Park west of the Continental Divide. Lighter snowfall on the east side of the park leaves low elevation trails open for hiking. Trails below 8,700 feet (2,700 m) offer diverse opportunities to those who wish to travel without the aid of skis or snow shoes.

Can you hike in Rocky Mountain National Park in April?

One of the best seasons for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is the spring. Typically, trails at higher elevations are still covered in snow until late-April. There are fantastic hiking options in the valley—trails at elevations of 8,000 to 9,500 feet.

Can you hike in Rocky Mountain National Park in March?

In March, hiking trails can be explored by snowshoe or cross country skis—minus the summer crowds. Depending on which entrance you choose, there are rentals for both activities available in Estes Park (east entrance) and Grand Lake (west entrance).

What is there to do in the Rocky Mountains in the winter?

19 Things to Do in Winter in the Rocky Mountains

1. Go Sledding at Hidden Valley.
2. Watch Winter Wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park.
3. Go Cross-Country Skiing.
4. Snowshoe Rocky Mountain Trails.
5. Explore Rocky Mountain Park with a Ranger.
6. Try Ice Climbing.
7. Take a Winter Bus Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park.
8. Go Snow Tubing.

Is Estes Park busy in winter?

For many visitors, winter is their favorite time to enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is less visited but still very much open and alive with activity. Weekends are much busier than weekdays. Beautiful backcountry areas can be reached on snowshoes, skis, and at lower elevations – even with hiking boots!

Does it snow in Estes Park in April?

April and May bring an average of 3.8 and 0.5 inches of snow, respectively to Estes Park, and 16.8 and 4.7 inches to Grand Lake (on the west side of the park). Snowfall totals in the park with be somewhere between these two sets, with greater accumulations at higher elevations.

Is there snow in the Rocky Mountains in April?

April is true spring, mostly mild with the potential of temperatures at or below freezing. The east side of Rocky Mountain National Park at Estes Park (7,500 feet) has less snow but still has cold temperatures even at lower elevations. The west side of the park at Grand Lake (8,300 feet) has more snow, but less wind.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park open in March?

Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting. Summer and fall are the busiest seasons in the park.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park good in winter?

Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park is truly a winter wonderland. Picture the most beautiful place you can imagine, and fill it with snow-covered mountain peaks, glistening snow on the valley floor, frozen waterfalls, and snow-dusted wildlife at dusk; that is a tiny glimpse of the Rockies in winter.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park closed in winter?

Rocky Mountain National Park is open all year, but some roads have seasonal closures. In the winter the road is open up to Many Parks Curve. Old Fall River Road: Open from early July to late September.

What is the prettiest lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Dream Lake Dream Lake is one of the most picturesque places in all of Rocky Mountain National Park. Get lost in its tranquil beauty as you take in the sweeping views of the lush pine forest and jagged granite spires.

Are there any winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Winter brings deep snows to Rocky Mountain National Park west of the Continental Divide, but the lighter snowfall on the east (Estes Park) side of the park often leaves low elevation trails open for hiking. Trails below 8,700 feet (2,700 m) make great winter hikes, sometimes without the aid of skis or snow shoes.

What to see in Rocky Mountain National Park in spring?

RMNP is packed with 355 miles of hiking trails, and home to abundant flora and fauna. Visit this spring to experience the park as two worlds—one thawing and reawakening, the other snowy and frozen, winter’s remnants. Before you go: check with the National Park Service to get the most updated spring conditions.

Where to go on a winter hike in Colorado?

Trails below 8,700 feet (2,700 m) make great winter hikes, sometimes without the aid of skis or snow shoes. 2) Chasm Falls (5 mi.; 400 ft elevation gain) .

What to pack and wear when hiking in the Rocky Mountains?

Average temperatures in and around the park vary greatly from season to season and depending on elevation, ranging from well below zero in winter months to the high 80s in summer. To make sure your hikes here are as safe and enjoyable as possible, therefore, wearing the right clothes and packing the right kit is absolutely essential.