Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike
Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

Rocky Mountain National Park
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Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

Distance: 8.0mi
Elevation: 1,201ft
Time: 3.5-4.5h

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The Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike is an undeniably scenic adventure in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike from the shimmering Poudre Lake up a meadowed path to a stunning mountainous overlook. This excursion is worth hiking on your next trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike Map

Getting there

The Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike is accessed via the Milner Pass Trailhead off Trail Ridge Road.

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About

Backcountry Campground

No

When to do

June-September

Pets allowed

No

Family friendly

Yes

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

High

Route Type

Out and back


Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike
Elevation Graph


Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike Description

The Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Trail is an incredible experience. Departing from the lake, hikers will ascend the timberline and hike a stunning exposed meadow that delivers panoramic views of the surrounding craggy peaks! Though the exposure rewards us with uninterrupted views, it means windy conditions! Wear layers as insurance against inclement weather! Note that the path is located within the boundaries of the Rocky Mountain national Park, thus visitors are required to purchase a park pass.

Embark on your expedition along the Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Trail from the Milner Pass Trailhead. From here, track the Ute Trail up a set of switchbacks before it guides you northeast. The initial segment of the trial will travel through sparse tree coverage before graduating the timberline. From here, ascend the meadowlands and revel in the expansive vistas. Eventually, you will meet a fork in the road, keep left and you will climb the Ute Trail all the way up to the Trail Ridge Visitors Centre.

From here, you can turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead or cross the street and continue up the Alpine Ridge Trail. If you do venture the extension to the true overlook, note it is steep, but the views are well worth the effort.

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