as of March 12, 2020
RMNP TRAIL CONDITIONS are changing often this winter, as RMNP has experienced a lot of wind and new snow. In general, traction devices are probably better than snowshoes, at least for the first couple of miles on the park trails. Remember: 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 the wind and new snow obliterate tracks.
3/12/2020 Bear Lake to Lake Helene
I started out with snowshoes. From Bear Lake trailhead, it was ice/hard pack snow with a little fresh snow. Past the Flattop turnoff there were no fresh tracks from hikers (@ 8:00am). At two points, the trail became so narrow and steep that passage with snowshoes was difficult. Once the trail left the trees and headed out onto a treeless area, the trail disappeared. Fresh snow with blowing winds completely obliterated any sign of the trail or past paths taken by hikers. Snowshoeing on the narrow trail was difficult and I switched out to traction devices. The kind of traction I had was still slippery. I continued the rest of the way with them, but wished I had spiked traction devices as it was very slippery.
By a Volunteer
3/7/2020 Cub Lake trail Loop
The Cub Lake trail had patches of packed snow and ice, a little mud, and at least one large tree down on the trail, which was easy to get around. Used microspikes the whole way, which was enough. Poles could help with balance in a couple places when following the track was narrow especially going down the north side. Overall the trail was slippery from The Pool to the Fern Lake trailhead and spikes were most helpful.
By a Volunteer
3/5/2020 Chasm Falls
Park at West Alluvial Fan. Walk down the paved road and up the Old Fall River Road to Chasm Falls. Good hiking boots needed for the walk but the last 50 yards down to see Chasm Falls is VERY icy and traction and poles would definitely be recommended. Beyond Chasm Falls to continue up Old Fall River Road requires snowshoes.
By a Volunteer
3/5/2020 Gem Lake
Gem Lake and all Lumpy Ridge Trails are very icy. Traction devices definitely needed.
By a Volunteer
Submit Your Own Trip Report
Send us an email, call (970) 586-1206, or stop by a park visitor center.
For Your Safety
These Trail Conditions reports are the viewpoints of the submitters, whether park staff, volunteers, or visitors. Conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Use these reports only as guidelines. Be prepared for varying weather and trail conditions.
Falling trees are ever-present hazards when traveling in the forest. Be aware of your surroundings. Dead trees can fall without warning!
Due to the September 2013 Flood, missing foot bridges, uneven trail surfaces, unstable slopes, falling trees due to soil moisture, rutted trails, damaged water bars and steps, standing water, difficult water crossings, and missing directional signs could be encountered. Most of Rocky Mountain National Park is designated wilderness, where self-reliance and adventure are expected. Hikers should be prepared to take responsibility for their own actions; search and rescue may be delayed. Be prepared to stay overnight even if you are a day hiker. Hiking poles may be helpful on uneven trails. Route finding skills may be required. Carry a map and compass and other backcountry travel essentials. Hike at your own risk.