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Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park: Lily Lake to Estes Cone

This moderately challenging 7.2-mile hike to a photogenic summit proves that sometimes it's not how high you climb--it's where you climb.

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INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm

PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season). nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcntry_guide.htm

CONTACT Rocky Mountain National Park, (970) 586-1206; nps.gov/romo

-Mapped by Kris Wagner

Trail Facts

  • Distance: 11.6

Waypoints

ECC001

Location: 40.306419, -105.538002

Begin on wide, crushed-stone path

ECC002

Location: 40.304729, -105.540298

Veer L onto 2-track dirt road (poorly marked). In a few strides, swing R onto thin trail, following signs to Estes Cone

ECC003

Location: 40.30283, -105.541702

Veer L onto 2-track dirt road (poorly marked). In a few strides, swing R onto thin trail, following signs to Estes Cone

ECC004

Location: 40.301849, -105.5448

Stairs drop into an offshoot of Aspen Brook, deeply cut from rapid spring melt (only a trickle in midsummer)

ECC005

Location: 40.300468, -105.545601

Go straight @ 4-way; immediately cross bridge. Trail begins climbing

ECC006

Location: 40.304401, -105.550102

Cross more bridges and under a few large, lifeĀ­less aspens where hawks prey on squirrels and mice in the forest duff. Eventually, pass through short hallway of tilted rocks to a brief overlook above Lily Lake

ECC007

Location: 40.301201, -105.557198

After a few switchbacks, trail eases briefly near two VW-bug-sized rocks among conifers and stacks of deadfall tinder. Intermittent views of the Twin Sisters to E

ECC008

Location: 40.294472, -105.560402

Path boomerangs around the W side of Estes Cone

ECC009

Location: 40.29187, -105.569099

Hulking, sheer Diamond Face of Longs Peak dominates W horizon. Keep hiking: Eye candy gets better!

ECC010

Location: 40.293049, -105.573799

Reach Storm Pass; turn R to begin short, steep ascent of Estes Cone

ECC011

Location: 40.294102, -105.570702

Caution: Rocky trail switchbacks @ odd places. Watch for random cairns

ECC012

Location: 40.295292, -105.567398

Estes Cone (11,006 ft.): Summit serves up views of dozens of snowy peaks, including Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak

How to Pack for Backcountry Skiing

Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack.

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