Alpine Ridge Trail at Rocky Mountain National Park
Difficulty
Moderate+ (elevation change of 1,038 ft.)Trail Length
Section: 2 miles round tripTrail Description
Rocky Mountain National Park includes the Alpine Ridge Trail. Beginning at Milner Pass/Poudre Lake,it is a gradual uphill climb past towering rocks, the still water of Poudre Lake and then through forest with peeks of the surrounding Rockies
The trail is well maintained, moderately used and reminiscent of a hike you might find in the northwestern U.S. It is lush and green with shady sections and beautiful greenery. Wooden stairs occasionally lead you up the mountain. The climb is through pines and aspens and pleasant wooded areas. The trail will gradually come out of the trail onto the open tundra heading up toward the Apline visitor center. A fantastic trail that offers a variety of micro climates and views!
The Alpine Ridge Trail connects the Alpine Visitor Center to the Milner Pass parking area (elevation change of 1,038 ft. from end to end). Check your map. We started at the Milner Pass end and hiked in about an hour before turning back. (If you are feeling courageous, hiking the entire trail roundtrip will take a few hours).
Milner Pass is on the Continental Divide (water flows to the Pacific on one side and to the Gulf of Mexico on the other).
Other trails in the area you may enjoy: Bridal Veil Falls Trail, Bierstadt Lake Trail, Deer Mountain Trail, Alberta Falls Trail
Restrooms available at trail head.
Picnic Spot Recommendations: We would recommend eating at the picnic ground at Lake Irene, just a couple minutes down the road from Milner Pass. It offers tables, a short trail to the lake, and restrooms.
Directions
From Estes Park take Hwy 36 into the Beaver Meadows Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. The Visitor Center is a good stop to make too. At the park entrance get a map and follow Hwy 36 which turns into Trail Ridge Rd. After passing the Alpine Visitor Center keep your eyes open for Poudre Lake and Milner Pass. The parking lot and trail head are by the water.Attractions
Estes Park offers many small restaurants and shops to satisfy many tastes. We recommend the Estes Park Brewery. It is a unique microbrewery that offers good food and a unique atmosphere.Related Posts:
About Mary Norton, Author Of This Post
