Wind River Loop Trail

If you are seeking a more secluded hike in the Rocky Mountain area, then the Wind River Loop is a good option. This trail is a great escape into the wilderness; hike through the diverse typographies, which exhibit the beauty of the Colorado Front Range region. This trail traverses through exposed terrain and tree shade; thus, it is a good idea to wear layers as insurance against changing conditions. Furthermore, this versatile path is open year-round, but if you venture it in the winter or autumn, we recommend switching your hiking boots for a pair of snowshoes or microspikes. Note that park visitors are required to purchase a pass to utilize the trails.

Begin your adventure from the trailhead at the end of the Tunnel Road. From here, track west along the Wind River Trail, keeping left at the first intersection. This path follows the curves of Wind River as it guides you beneath the tree-shade of pines and vibrant aspens. As you walk, you will be granted astonishing mountain views through the tree break and as you weave into the meadowlands. At the next intersection, keep right and hike along the Storm Pass Trail. Revel in the mountain views along this exposed route. Soon, you will cross Boulder Brook and encounter another junction, veer right and hike this path to the Sprague Lake Trailhead.

At this point, you will find yourself at the trailhead, take the rightmost Sprague Lake Trail and hike around the lake’s shore. Continue hiking this path until you meet an intersection with the Glacier Creek Trail. Here, keep right and hike the woodland path to the trail’s end then merge onto the Emerald Mountain Trail. Trek around the base of Emerald Mountain and at the next fork in the road, take a sharp right down an unmarked path where you will reconnect with the Wind River Trail. From here, retrace your steps east along the Wind River Trail back to the parking lot.