5 Best Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes for Kids

This family-friendly park is packed with scenic beauty, gentle trails, and the perfect opportunities to introduce kids to the joys of hiking.

Here are the 5 best kid-friendly hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park — chosen for their ease, natural beauty, and the excitement they offer to hikers of all ages.

Distance: 0.8 miles loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Trailhead: Sprague Lake Picnic Area

This picturesque loop around Sprague Lake is the perfect introduction to hiking for even the tiniest explorers. The trail is flat, stroller-friendly, and offers stunning views of the Continental Divide reflected in the still water. Along the way, kids can spot ducks, chipmunks, and occasionally moose, while parents enjoy the serenity of the landscape. With picnic tables and restrooms nearby, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon adventure.

Distance: 0.8 miles loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Trailhead: Lily Lake Trailhead, south of Estes Park

Another stroller-friendly gem, Lily Lake is located outside the main park entrance, making it super convenient. The trail loops around the lake and features majestic views of Longs Peak, calm waters, and lots of wildflowers in summer. Kids will enjoy exploring the shoreline, and parents will appreciate how easy it is to walk and supervise. There are also optional side trails for more adventurous families.

Distance: 3.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet
Trailhead: Lumpy Ridge Trailhead

For families with older kids or enthusiastic little hikers, Gem Lake is a great “first challenge.” The trail climbs steadily through rock formations and forests, offering lots of natural play areas and boulder scrambling opportunities. The reward? A small alpine lake surrounded by granite cliffs — perfect for a snack break and some nature play. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and take breaks along the way.

Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~200 feet
Trailhead: Glacier Gorge

This is one of the park’s most popular waterfall hikes, and for good reason. It’s short, sweet, and absolutely thrilling for kids to reach the roaring Alberta Falls. The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of rocks and logs to explore along the way. Parents will love the photo ops, while kids will be mesmerized by the power of the falls. Arrive early to avoid crowds and find parking.

Distance: 3.6 miles round trip (to Emerald Lake)
Elevation Gain: ~650 feet
Trailhead: Bear Lake

This series of interconnected alpine lakes is your quintessential Rocky Mountain hike. Starting at Bear Lake, the trail passes Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and finally reaches the stunning Emerald Lake — each one more magical than the last. The trail is moderately challenging but totally doable for school-aged children, especially with plenty of breaks. It’s also one of the most scenic hikes in the park, offering mirror-like reflections, dramatic peaks, and numerous photo ops.

• Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and crowded parking lots.
• Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and layers — the weather can change quickly.
• Turn hikes into scavenger hunts — spotting birds, pinecones, or animal tracks adds a playful element.
• Leave no trace and help your little ones learn to respect the environment.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a quick weekend escape, Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with trails that will inspire a lifelong love of the outdoors. With a little planning and the right trail, your kids will be asking, “Can we go hiking again?”