Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcome to Denver, Colorado, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains! Meet up with your local leader and fellow travellers for a 5pm welcome meeting at your hotel, marking the start of your adventure. Once your meeting has wrapped up, head out to get to know Denver with a walk around the historic Larimer Square. Here you’ll find an inviting mix of independent shops, restaurants and bars tucked into charming Victorian buildings. Hear the history of the settlers who first put down roots here, then get to know your group a little better over an included welcome dinner in town. (D)

Leave the city in the rear-view mirror and make the drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, home to some seriously awe-inspiring peaks. You won’t have to wait too long to get out and explore – jump out the vehicle and set off on your first walk in the park. Follow the popular Lulu City trail, a relatively flat and easy-going path that’s a perfect introduction to the gorgeous scenery and fresh air of Rocky Mountain National Park. Once you’ve found your feet, continue your drive to Estes Park – just a stone’s throw away from the national park, this town is the ideal base for your explorations. On arrival, settle into your hotel then head out to explore the town – there’s no shortage of welcoming restaurants here so be sure to ask your leader for tips on where to grab a bite to eat. You may like to take advantage of the national park’s clear skies and take part in a stargazing tour once the sun has set. (B/L)

Venture deep into the Rocky Mountain National Park for your second hike to Ouzel Falls. This moderate hike follows the North Saint Vrain Creek, passing by the Copeland Falls and tumbling Calypso Cascades before arriving at Ouzel Falls. This is a stunning but at times slippery walk, so good shoes are a must! With your leader at the helm, you’ll learn about the region’s flora and fauna as you walk. Turn around and head back to the trailhead, then take a scenic drive to Chapel on the Rock, a functioning 100-year-old Catholic church. Blending into the rock formation it was built on top of, this chapel really is a sight to behold! Return to Estes Park for an evening free for your own explorations. (B)

You’ll be flying high today as you climb the much-loved Deer Mountain trail. Surrounded by wildflowers and sweet-smelling pines, this trail isn’t just a treat for the eyes. Climb up switchbacks towards Deer Mountain’s summit, where you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with unbeatable views over Longs Peak, Moraine Park, Upper Beavers Meadows and Estes Park. Stop for a picnic lunch before descending the mountain, then head back to your hotel to freshen up. This afternoon you’ll pay a visit to a historic building with a spooky twist – the infamous Stanley Hotel. Used as the inspiration for Stephen King’s iconic novel, The Shining, the hotel is said to play host to several spirits. Tour it’s storied halls to learn about the hotel’s history and the guests who never checked out. It’s your last evening in Estes Park, so you may like to grab your new friends tonight and head out for dinner to toast to the end of your adventure. (B/L)

It’s time to pack your bags and bid farewell to Estes Park. But before you leave Rocky Mountain National Park, there’s time to hit just one more trail – and it’s a good one! Hidden among the granite domes of the Lumpy Ridge area is the Gem Lake trail, a pleasant and scenic walk delivering big views of Estes Park, Longs Peak and the Continental Divide. The path leads to Gem Lake, a standalone pond filled by snowmelt and rainfall. After your final hike, head to the lovely little community of Glen Haven and refuel with some delicious homemade cinnamon rolls and coffee from the family-run general store. Drive back to Denver, arriving at around 5pm, at which point your Rocky Mountains adventure will come to an end. (B)