From the blog

A Guide to Hidden Gems and Estes Park Secret Trails in Summer

Smiling happy family relaxing on the hiking trail. Smiling people enjoying time together in the mountains on Emerald trail. Estes Park, Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado, USA.

Estes Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and iconic Rocky Mountain backdrop, but beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. These Estes Park secret trails are the essence of summer exploration!

Gem Lake Trail

Start your adventure with the Gem Lake Trail. This 3.4-mile hike is a favorite among locals and seasoned hikers. The trail takes you through diverse terrain, from dense forests to rocky outcrops. At the journey’s end, you’ll find the sparkling Gem Lake nestled among towering rocks. The view is nothing short of breathtaking.

Hollowell Park

For a more tranquil experience, visit Hollowell Park. This secluded spot offers serene meadows, babbling brooks, and a picnic area, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful day of reflection. It’s an excellent spot to connect with nature without the crowds.

Bierstadt Lake Trail

Elevate your adventure with the Bierstadt Lake Trail. This moderate 2.4-mile hike rewards you with mesmerizing views of Bierstadt Lake, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Rockies. It’s a picture-perfect location for a summer picnic and some unforgettable photographs.

Estes Cone

Venture onto the Estes Cone Trail if you seek solitude and magnificent vistas. This challenging hike takes you through dense forests and rocky terrain and finally to the summit of Estes Cone, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the national park.

Twin Sisters Peak

For the seasoned hiker looking for a true challenge, Twin Sisters Peak is the ultimate quest. This demanding hike takes you to the summit of not one but two majestic peaks. The reward? A sense of accomplishment and unparalleled views that stretch for miles.

Embrace the Adventure

Estes Park’s hidden gems and secret trails beckon you to embrace the spirit of adventure. Summer in this Colorado paradise is a time to leave behind the ordinary and uncover the extraordinary. So, pack your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and prepare for a summer filled with awe-inspiring discoveries. The Rocky Mountains await, and the Estes Park secret trails call your name. Don’t wait; let the adventure begin!

Stay at Murphy’s Resort

After enjoying the Estes Park secret trails, rest up at Murphy’s Resort. Murphy’s Resort is the ideal choice for your stay regardless of what brings you to Estes Park. Located within walking distance of Lake Estes and Estes Park Golf Course and just minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park, our family-friendly hotel offers the best location for doing it all.

Enjoy top-notch amenities, awesome service, and comfy rooms. Rest and relax after a long day on the mountain by soaking in our outdoor hot tub or cozying up by the fire pit. Either way, your restful and cozy retreat awaits you at Murphy’s Resort.

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Cass Tooke is a writer who focuses on travel, outdoor fun, and local culture. When not working, she enjoys watching movies, listening to her record collection, and biking with her boyfriend, Ryan. She also dreams of earning that Paul Hollywood handshake and making it on the Great British Baking Show one day.

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