Trail Conditions

RMNP Trail Conditions Report as of February 28, 2023

All trails in Rocky Mountain National Park are snow-covered and icy. Expect frequent winter storms with snow, winds causing blowing snow, and cold temperatures. When coming to the park, be prepared for winter conditions.

Traction devices for the bottom of your boots and hiking poles are strongly recommended. At higher elevations, the snow may be deep enough that snowshoes are advised.

Beware of frozen lakes. Even though a lake may have several inches of ice, the inlets and outlets may have running water that makes for thinner ice. Also beware of edges of lakes where the sun may reflect off rocks or trees and soften the snow. The center of lakes is often the safest place to go but beware of thin ice anywhere at any time of the year. Just because someone else went on the lake does not mean it is safe for you.

Route-finding is important, as RMNP trails are not marked in winter and following other tracks is not advised, as you don’t know where they lead, and wind and new snow obliterate tracks.

Roads are often icy and snowy, especially in shady areas. Be prepared and know how to drive in wintery conditions. If the Colorado Vehicle Traction Law is in place in RMNP, for your safety and the safety of other motorists, all vehicles must have properly rated tires with a minimum of 3/16” tread or an approved traction control device.

Any Time of Year: Choose Your Destination Wisely. Always tell someone where you’re going, where you will be parked, what your intended route is, when you plan to be back home; and then let them know when you return.

Approximately 30,000 acres or 10 percent of RMNP has been impacted by the East Troublesome and Cameron Peak Fires. Some park trails remain temporarily closed due to the level of fire impacts and ongoing safety assessments. This website is updated as trails reopen. Please see the link above.

REMEMBER, PETS ARE PROHIBITED ON ALL RMNP TRAILS, TUNDRA AND MEADOW AREAS

2/26/23 Deer Mountain
Wore traction devices and followed tracks until the tracks ended. They were not wearing snowshoes and had to turn back, as they were floundering in hip-deep snow. Could have worn snowshoes and completed their hike.
Note: Always, be careful when following other tracks, as they can lead in other directions from where you wish to go. Route-finding skills are always important.
By a Volunteer

2/25/23 The Loch
Was glad to have his snowshoes early in the morning but by mid-afternoon the trail was matted down enough to where they were not needed. Traction devices would be good. The trail hasn’t iced over yet, but it likely will. Another day of blowing snow.
By a Volunteer

2/25/2023 Emerald Lake
The trail to Emerald was trampled down through the snow. Either traction devices or snowshoes are necessary.
Note: Always, be careful when following other tracks, as they can lead in other directions from where you wish to go. Route-finding skills are always important.
By a Volunteer

2/8/2023 Cub Lake
Hiked to Cub Lake in the morning. Wore traction devices, they were needed. You could also wear snowshoes. Trail is packed, but narrow. If you step off the trail you will posthole. Cub Lake is in the burn area.
By a Visitor