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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
275 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Beaver Meadows Loop

Views from the Beaver Meadows Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Beaver Meadows Loop hike is an easier hike with great views of Longs Peak and a good spot to hear the elk bugle in the fall. This hike will take you through open meadows, woods and over streams to take in the views of Rocky Mountain National Park and see the elk.

Route Description for Beaver Meadows Loop

From the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead, find the sign and orient yourself with the map of the area. We prefer (and describe) hiking clockwise around the Beaver Meadows Loop, though you can take either direction.

To start this hike, cross the river and head straight and see the signs that point to Moraine Park. You’ll hike through an open meadow and Longs Peak looms overhead. After a 0.4 km, you’ll enter the woods and reach your first intersection. Stay to the right, still toward Moraine Park and the trail starts to climb gradually.

You’ll quickly get to the next intersection and you’ll keep right again following the signs toward Trail Ridge Road. About 0.8 km into the hike, turn left at the next intersection. The trailhead is to the right if you need to cut your hike short.

Follow the trail for another 1.6 km before the next intersection, and turn right. From here, you’ll wind through the woods on the hills sneaking peaks of Longs Peak to the south and Deer Mountain to the east between the trees. You’ll meet up with Beaver Brook and cross over it to hike beside it for over a 1.6 km.

Roughly 4.0 km into the hike, you’ll hang a right, following the signs to Beaver Meadows trailhead and the trail will descend down until you reach your car, popping out on the other side of the parking lot.

Want to find more amazing hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park? Check out Chasm Lake hike, Lake Haiyaha hike or the Sky Pond and Lake of Glass hike.

Insider Hints for Beaver Meadows Loop

  • The parking lot is very small and doesn’t accommodate a lot of people. Get there early to get a parking spot.
  • This is a really good place to see Elk in the fall. Be careful around Elk, and follow Ranger precautions when viewing.

Getting to the Beaver Meadows Loop Trailhead

From Estes Park, take highway 36 West into the National Park. Just past Bear Lake Road, you’ll turn left onto Upper Beaver Meadows Rd. Follow it all the way to the end and park at the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year Round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    In parking lot

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Extreme

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Beaver Meadows Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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