Longs Peak aside, there is perhaps no attraction at Rocky Mountain National Park that’s more iconic than Trail Ridge Road. Climbing to an elevation of 12,183 feet and traveling between the eastern and western sides of the park amid stunning scenic views, this paved route is popular for good reason. That said, for those who want to get out and stretch their legs a bit while traveling the route on wheels, there’s a great mid-drive trail to check out – and it’s officially open for the season.

According to Rocky Mountain National Park, Alpine Ridge Trail is now open. The park describes it as a “short, but challenging trail” that’s about 0.6 miles long round-trip with a vertical gain of roughly 206 feet. It reaches an elevation of 12,005 feet above sea level and is known for showcasing views of the park’s alpine tundra. Hikers in late-spring and early summer will have a great shot at spotting the alpine wildflowers that Colorado is known for, too.

While the trail is relatively short, it’s important for visitors not to underestimate the challenges that come with any physical activity at elevation. Even a short walk can be enough to trigger symptoms of altitude sickness in some.

It’s also crucial to note that the trail travels through extremely fragile terrain, thus staying on the established path is important for preventing damage. The flora growing at this elevation takes a long time to recover, with even a few off-trail steps having potential to leave a lasting mark.

One other thing to note about the trail is that it provides a great example of what it’s like to be exposed to the elements above tree line. You might be more likely to get a sunburn, and dangerous storms can pop up without much notice.

Check your forecast, take your time, and enjoy the view.

Find the AllTrails overview for Alpine Ridge Trail here.

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