recommended route
Alpine Ridge Trail
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Alpine Ridge TrailPhoto: Chase Marston, Macs Adventure
After parking at the Alpine Visitor's center, continue to the rear of the parking lot to join the .3 mile walk to the top of a nearby peak. The route is mostly paved with sections of built in stairs, and has numerous educational signs along the way up. Make sure to take time to read these informational blurbs to gain a better understanding of the surrounding peaks. And, if you have time, take advantage of the café and gift shop.
The hike also takes you to nearly 12,000ft, so make sure to take it slow and bring water, even though it is a short walk!
Author’s recommendation
Track types
Safety information
Please note that in the early part of the summer, parts of the trail go through habitat that is commonly inhabited by elk during the calving season. Mother elk can become territorial during this time, and it is important never to approach an elk, especially with a calf. The National Park posts cautionary and informational signs during the calving season to help you stay aware of elk habitat.
The hike also takes you to nearly 12,000ft, so make sure to take it slow and bring water, even though it is a short walk!
Tips and hints
Points of Interest
Alpine Visitors Center
This hike starts and ends at the Visitors Center, which is a wealth of knowledge about Rocky Mountain National Park!
Alpine Ridge Trail Signage
The trail is full of informational signs helping walkers understand the vegitation, surrounding peaks, and seasonality of the region.
Food & Drink
After leaving Estes Park, there will not be a distinct town until Grand Lake. Make sure to bring plenty of food for the whole day's adventure. However, the Visitor's center does have a café should you need to get food before or after this hike.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
0.0 miles - Walk to the end of the parking lot while keeping the visitor's centre to your right. Here you will find the beginning of the trail and its well-maintained stairs. Continue STRAIGHT ON up the stairs on over the pavement until the top of the knoll.
0.3 miles - ARRIVE at the top of the trail and the end of the out and back. Take time to enjoy the views, and then return the way you came.
0.6 miles - Arrive back at the visitor's centre and end this hike.
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