East Inlet Trail

This trail is an easy walk for the first .3 mile, to scenic Adams Falls. It then wanders along some marshy areas, crosses several streams, and, becoming more strenuous, climbs sharply in elevation to Lone Pine Lake, about 5.5 miles from the trail head. It is another 1.5 miles, partly through a subalpine forest, to Lake Verna. The trail continues, unmaintained, after the lake. Total elevation gain to Lake Verna is 1,809 feet.

14 miles RT. Moderate to strenuous. Access: West portal of Adam's Tunnel, southeast of the town of Grand Lake.

East Longs Peak Trail

Recommended only for experienced mountain hikers and climbers in top physical condition, this trail climbs 4,855 feet along steep ledges and through a narrows to the top of 14,259-foot Longs Peak, the highest point in the park. The trek takes most hikers about 15 hours to complete and can be done in 1 or 2 days. Those planning a 1-day hike should consider starting extremely early, so they will be well off the peak before the summer afternoon thunderstorms arrive. For a 2-day hike, go 5 or 6 miles the first day, stay at a designated backcountry campsite (a permit is required), and complete the trip the following day. Those making the hike in early summer (usually until mid-July) should be prepared for icy conditions.

16 miles RT. Strenuous. Access: Longs Peak Ranger Station.

Lawn Lake Trail

This hike, with an elevation gain of 2,249 feet, follows the Roaring River through terrain dotted with ponderosa pine. Along the way you can see all too plainly the damage done by a massive flood that occurred when the Lawn Lake Dam broke in 1982, killing three campers. At higher elevations, there are scenic views of Mummy Mountain.

12 miles RT. Strenuous. Access: Trail head on Fall River Rd.

Lulu City Trail

This trail gains just 300 feet in elevation as it winds along the river floodplain, through lush vegetation, past an 1880s mine and several mining cabins, and then along an old stage route into a subalpine forest before arriving at Lulu City. Founded in 1879 by prospectors hoping to strike gold and silver, it was abandoned within 10 years. Little remains except the ruins of a few cabins. An interpretative brochure is available.

7.4 miles RT. Moderate. Access: Colorado River trail head, near the western park boundary.

Timber Lake Trail

You'll work hard on this hike but be amply rewarded with views of timberline lakes and alpine tundra. With an elevation change of 2,060 feet, this hike takes you through a forest of lodgepole pines, follows a creek lined with subalpine wildflowers, and then arrives at the lake, surrounded by rocks, tundra, snow, and a few trees.

9.6 miles RT. Strenuous. Access: East side of Trail Ridge Rd., a little more than 9 1/2 miles north of the Grand Lake Entrance.

Ute Trail

An excellent way to see the tundra, this moderate hike can become fairly easy if you can get a ride to the top and walk down the 3,300-foot descent to Beaver Meadows. The hike down the side of a canyon provides great views.

6 miles one-way. Moderate. Access: Ute Trail turnout on Trail Ridge Rd.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.