The best walks and hikes around Grand Lake

The Lake Verna via East Inlet Trail offers a challenging journey into the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, leading you through varied landscapes. You'll start in mixed forests, pass the cascading Adams Falls, and traverse the wildlife-rich East Meadow before the trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain, eventually revealing the serene Lone Pine Lake and the stunning, pine-encircled Lake Verna, framed by imposing grey peaks.

This difficult 13.5-mile (21.8 km) hike involves a significant 2754 feet (839 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 6 hours and 35 minutes to complete. The best time to hike is from May through September, but be prepared for potential snow at higher elevations even into mid-summer. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, and if you're considering backcountry camping, reservations are essential and often book up quickly.

Beyond its natural beauty, the East Inlet Trail holds historical significance, listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its naturalistic design and improvements made by the Public Works Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps. The East Meadow is particularly renowned for wildlife sightings, including moose, elk, and deer, making it a prime spot for nature observation.

The Continental Divide Trail: North Inlet and Tonahutu Creek Loop offers a challenging journey through Rocky Mountain National Park's diverse landscapes. You'll traverse wide valleys and marshlands, climb through lush forests and expansive meadows like Big Meadows, and ascend into a stunning alpine environment above the treeline. Expect dramatic scenery with mountain lakes, streams, and waterfalls like Cascade Falls, alongside opportunities to spot wildlife such as pika, moose, and marmots.

This difficult 67.1-mile (108.0 km) hike involves 8404 feet (2562 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 31 hours and 20 minutes, typically requiring an overnight stay. Backcountry permits are essential and must be reserved well in advance, with bear cans mandatory for food storage. Be prepared for high altitude exposure and potential afternoon thunderstorms, especially above the treeline, and note that snow can persist into July.

This loop is a prized section of the much longer Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, allowing you to experience a world-class trail within Rocky Mountain National Park. It connects the North Inlet and Tonahutu Creek trails at Flattop Mountain, offering unspoiled views west of the Divide. The route provides a unique blend of accessible yet challenging terrain, combining alpine, meadows, and forested sections, including areas affected by the East Troublesome Fire.

The East Inlet Trail to Lone Pine Lake offers a classic Rocky Mountain National Park hiking experience, transitioning from gentle forest paths to a challenging ascent through diverse terrain. You'll start by passing the roaring Adams Falls, then follow the East Inlet River through wildlife-rich meadows, eventually climbing through increasingly rocky and steep sections to reach the serene alpine waters of Lone Pine Lake, a truly picturesque destination surrounded by towering pines. This difficult 10.6-mile (17.1 km) out-and-back route involves 1683 feet (513 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete.

To plan your visit, head to the East Inlet Trailhead near Grand Lake. Be sure to check for timed entry permits for Rocky Mountain National Park, which are often required during peak season. The trail is best enjoyed between May and October, though snow can persist at higher elevations outside these months. Remember that dogs are not permitted on any trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, so leave your furry friends at home.

This trail is notable not just for its natural beauty but also for its historic design by the National Park Service and Civilian Conservation Corps, using local materials to blend seamlessly with the environment. Keep an eye out for moose in the lower meadows, and consider that Lone Pine Lake is just the first of several alpine gems accessible from this route; more adventurous hikers can continue to higher lakes like Lake Verna and Spirit Lake.

The East Inlet Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll into Rocky Mountain National Park's western side, leading you quickly to the charming Adams Falls. You'll follow East Inlet Creek through serene forested sections, with the sound of tumbling water accompanying your journey. This short route provides a taste of the park's subalpine beauty and offers prime opportunities for wildlife viewing, including moose and elk, all while providing glimpses back towards Grand Lake.

Access to the East Inlet Trailhead is straightforward, located near Grand Lake within Rocky Mountain National Park, meaning park entrance fees apply. This route is particularly popular in summer when the meadows are vibrant with wildflowers, making it an ideal time to visit. To ensure you find parking, especially during busy periods, it's always a good idea to arrive early in the day.

What makes this trail notable is its accessibility and the immediate payoff of Adams Falls, making it a fantastic option for beginners or families. While this specific 0.8-mile (1.3 km) section is easy with only 77 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 21 minutes, the East Inlet Trail is also the gateway to a much longer, more challenging corridor. It leads to a chain of pristine subalpine and alpine lakes, offering a