- The Moraine Park Loop Trail is ideal for families
- Only 4.6 miles of minimal elevation gain
- You can make this easy hike in about 2 ½ hours
- Watch for wildlife as you hike through Rocky Mountain National Park
- You can stop to fish in the Big Thompson River
Overview
The Moraine Park Loop Trail offers the perfect hike for all family members, taking you through a rich meadow, teeming with life and beauty. Rocky Mountain Park’s towering peaks surround you, wildlife feeds, and the Big Thompson River flows in all its sparkling glory. It’s the ideal trail to take to experience nature up close. In the fall you’ll view large herds of elk as they congregate for the annual rut. Catch glimpses of rabbits, deer, fox and bobcats.
Trailhead
Enter Rocky Mountain National Park on US Highway 36, traveling through the Beaver Meadows entrance. Watch for the sign to Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead on the left. Turn left and drive for two miles to the trailhead.
Details
- Distance – 4.6 miles
- Average Time of Hike – 2.5 hours
- Elevation Gain – Minimal
- Difficulty – Easy
- Trail Type – Loop
Plan & Prepare
When planning for your short trek on the Moraine Park Trail, remember that no dogs are permitted on this trail. You should also get a map of the area, as there are numerous trails that intersect and you want to know where you are at all times.
The best time to come is in the summer, but you can also find great snowshoeing here in the winter months. During some weeks in September and October, the trail closes due to the elk rut. Remember to view all wildlife from a distance, maintaining respect of these wild creatures at all times.
