Perfect 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park (Hikes, Scenic Drives, Hidden Gems)

If you’re looking to explore the best spots in the Rockies, this 5 days in Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary has you covered.

The itinerary is flexible, so you can adjust based on your energy or interests.

Each day mixes popular sights with a few hidden gems, so you can enjoy the highlights and find some lesser-known favorites along the way.

By the end of these five days, you’ll have explored the park’s top destinations and made memories to last!

During the peak season (May-October), Rocky Mountain National Park requires a timed entry permit for Bear Lake Road and Trail Ridge Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m.

You’ll need to reserve a time slot in advance through the Recreation.gov website.

There are two main options for entry:

• Bear Lake Corridor Permit – Includes Bear Lake Road and the rest of the park.
• Park Access, No Bear Lake Road Permit – Allows access to the rest of the park but excludes Bear Lake Road.

Permits are released in two phases: one month in advance, and a limited number are available at 5 p.m. the day before. It’s highly recommended to book your permit as early as possible during peak months.

Here’s a guide to help you decide where to stay near each entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP):

• Beaver Meadows Entrance (East Side, Near Estes Park)

The Beaver Meadows Entrance, one of the park’s busiest, is just minutes from the town of Estes Park, which has the widest variety of accommodations.

One of my favorite places is The Estes Park Resort set right on the shores of Lake Estes. It is great place to unwind after a day in the park. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, with lake views, and there’s an onsite restaurant if you’re looking to grab a meal with a view.

Another place that I stayed at is Rams Horn Village Resort. Located just a mile from the main entrance, it offers private cabins with full kitchens, fireplaces, and patios, so it’s easy to feel at home. The resort has perks like a heated pool, hot tubs, and a fitness room. Plus, it’s close to downtown Estes Park for quick access to restaurants and shops, making it super convenient for a relaxing, fun stay.

• Fall River Entrance (East Side, Near Estes Park)

The Fall River Entrance, also near Estes Park, is quieter than Beaver Meadows but still close to town amenities.

The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins is set along the Fall River. It offers riverside cabins with fireplaces and private hot tubs. It’s ideal for couples or families looking for a more secluded place close to the park.

• The Grand Lake Entrance

The Grand Lake Entrance provides access to the park’s quieter side, near the lakeside town of Grand Lake.

Gateway Inn is located just minutes from the Grand Lake Entrance. This rustic mountain lodge offers rooms with lake or mountain views and a cozy bar area with a fireplace. It’s perfect for couples or families wanting easy access to RMNP with the convenience of staying in town.

Kick off your Rocky Mountain National Park 5-day experience with the Fern Lake Trail. It is located in Moraine Park which is part of Bear Lake Corridor.

Fern Lake Trail is a classic hike featuring a rushing creek, cascading waterfall, and scenic mountain lakes.

First of all, this trail will take you to The Pool and reaching it is relatively easy and it makes a great choice for a shorter hike. Beyond The Pool, the trail becomes moderately challenging, and past Fern Falls, the terrain gets more strenuous.

GOOD TO KNOW: The beauty of this trail is that you can turn back whenever you’re ready, though most hikers aim for Fern Falls or Fern Lake as a rewarding halfway point.

PRO TIP: For those with extra energy, the full journey to Odessa Lake offers an absolutely stunning alpine scenery! So, if you are up to it, then I want to encourage you to make it to Odessa Lake. It is a strenuous section of the trail, but so worth it!

Fern Lake Trail Map / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Stats at a Glance:

• Trailhead: Fern Lake Trailhead (Moraine Park in Bear Lake Corridor)
• The Pool: 1.7 miles, 245 feet elevation gain
• Fern Falls: 2.5 miles, 645 feet elevation gain
• Fern Lake: 3.8 miles, 1,375 feet elevation gain
• Odessa Lake: 4.9 miles, 1,865 feet elevation gain
• Total Distance (Round Trip, Loop via Cub Lake): ~9 miles
• Overall Elevation Gain: ~1,500 feet
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (to The Pool/Fern Falls); Moderate to Strenuous (Fern Lake/Odessa Lake)

• Highlights of the Fern Lake Trail

At just 1.7 miles in, you will reach The Pool. It is a spot where two creeks converge, forming a serene and scenic area perfect for a break. It’s surrounded by lush trees, and you can often hear the sound of water well before you see it.

Another 0.8 miles along the trail, Fern Falls tumbles down 60 feet over rocky ledges, creating a beautiful spray. With an elevation gain of about 400 feet from The Pool, this section is moderately challenging but accessible for most hikers. The waterfall is a popular turnaround spot for those looking for a shorter, rewarding hike.

Fern Falls / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

If you decide to continue, Fern Lake awaits at mile 3.8, with spectacular alpine views and a tranquil lakeside setting. The lake sits higher up at about 1,375 feet of elevation gain, giving you a true sense of wilderness and rewarding you with its stunning reflections of nearby peaks.

Fern Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

For the adventurous, another mile (about 1.1 miles from Fern Lake) takes you to Odessa Lake. This last leg adds a steep elevation gain, bringing you up to 1,865 feet from the trailhead. Odessa’s quiet, crystal-clear waters and panoramic views make the extra challenge worth it, especially for photographers and those looking to immerse themselves in the alpine landscape.

Odessa Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

PRO TIP: On the return trip, take the alternate route past Cub Lake for a loop back to the Fern Lake Trailhead. This route changes up the scenery with open meadows, marshes, and forested sections where you might spot elk or other wildlife, especially in the morning or late afternoon.

Trail Ridge Road is one of the most scenic drives in Rocky Mountain National Park—and in the entire U.S.! This incredible 48-mile route winds through alpine tundra, lush meadows, and dense forests, connecting Estes Park on the east to Grand Lake on the west.

Along the way, you’ll find breathtaking overlooks, fascinating geological formations, and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Map of Trail Ridge Road / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Stats at a Glance

• Distance: 48 miles (one-way, from Estes Park to Grand Lake)
• Highest Point: 12,183 feet
• Season: Typically open late May to early October, weather permitting

Trail Ridge Road / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park

Trail Ridge Road / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park

Start with Beaver Ponds Overlook for wildlife spotting, then head to Many Parks Curve for sweeping valley views.

Forest Canyon Overlook and Rock Cut Trail provide stunning panoramas and a glimpse into the alpine tundra.

Stop at the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest in the national park system, to learn about the area and enjoy a break.

As you continue, explore the Tundra Communities Trail and cross the Continental Divide at Milner Pass with its serene Poudre Lake. Finish at Farview Curve for views of the Kawuneeche Valley and a chance to spot more wildlife.

PRO TIP: For more details, check out my full post: 18 Best Stops on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park

Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake Hike is a gem of Rocky Mountain National Park!

It is an easy-to-moderate hike with some of the park’s most stunning alpine lakes.

You’ll start with a short walk to Nymph Lake, and from there, you can go as far as Dream, Emerald, or even Lake Haiyaha if you’re feeling adventurous.

Trail Stats

• Trailhead: Bear Lake Trailhead
• Nymph Lake: 0.5 miles, 225 feet elevation gain
• Dream Lake: 1.1 miles, 425 feet elevation gain
• Emerald Lake: 1.8 miles, 605 feet elevation gain
• Lake Haiyaha: 2.1 miles, 745 feet elevation gain

Nymph, Dream and Emerald Lake Trail Map / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Nymph Lake is just half a mile from the trailhead. It is an easy walk with gentle elevation gain.

Nymph Lake is known for its water lilies, which bloom beautifully in summer, creating a picturesque scene set against towering pines and rugged mountain peaks. It’s a peaceful spot for a break and an ideal start to the trail’s alpine beauty.

Nymph Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Continuing from Nymph Lake, the trail becomes slightly more challenging, with a bit more elevation gain.

Dream Lake is about 1.1 miles from the trailhead and offers breathtaking views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain reflected in the clear, calm water. This lake’s serenity makes it a popular stop for photographers and those looking for a manageable, scenic hike.

Dream Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

From Dream Lake, the trail leads up to Emerald Lake, 1.8 miles from the trailhead.

Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and more expansive mountain views, Emerald Lake is a stunning destination with bright green water that lives up to its name, especially vibrant in the summer months. This lake feels more secluded than Dream Lake and is a perfect turnaround point for many hikers.

For those ready to venture further, Lake Haiyaha awaits just past Emerald Lake.

This section of the trail is more strenuous, with a steeper climb to a quiet, less-traveled lake surrounded by large boulders. The rugged scenery and unique setting make Lake Haiyaha a memorable end to the hike for those up for a challenge.

Lake Haiyaha / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park

Old Fall River Road is a historic, one-way dirt road that offers an unforgettable scenic drive in the park. It was the first road to the top of the Continental Divide and dates back to 1920.

The road is narrow, with sharp switchbacks, making it unsuitable for larger vehicles like RVs or trailers. It passes through several ecosystems, from montane to alpine, with stunning views of waterfalls, wildlife, and mountain peaks.

The road typically opens in early July and closes in October.

Stats

• Start: Endovalley Picnic Area (elevation: 8,300 feet)
• Finish: Alpine Visitor Center (elevation: 11,796 feet)
• Distance: 9.1 miles (14.6 km) one-way
• Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet (700 meters)

Old Fall River Road / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Old Fall River Road / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Your first stop will be Chasm Fall. To reach the fall follow a short but steep 0.2-mile trail that will lead you to a beautiful waterfall rushing through a rugged rock cut.

A set of stairs will take you to a viewing platform where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

Chasm Falls / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Chasm Falls / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Next up is Willow Park, about 5.5 miles up the road. This tranquil meadow is filled with wildflowers and willows and often attracts wildlife, including elk. It’s a peaceful place to pause and take in the alpine scenery.

Continuing up, you’ll pass Sundance Mountain Waterfall after a series of steep switchbacks. This small, seasonal waterfall flows down the rocks and is best seen in early summer when snowmelt feeds it before it dries up later in the season.

The road ends at the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the National Park System, located at the junction with Trail Ridge Road. Here, you’ll find panoramic views of the Continental Divide, exhibits about the alpine ecosystem, a gift shop, restrooms, and a café.

Day 5 combines two of the most beautiful hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park!

First, you’ll visit Sprague Lake, an easy, peaceful walk with stunning views, then head to Bierstadt Lake for a more moderate adventure offering incredible vistas of the surrounding peaks.

PRO TIP: If you prefer, after reaching Bierstadt Lake, you can take the Bear Lake Road Shuttle back to Bear Lake Trailhead, making the return easier after the longer hike.

Let’s begin with Sprague Lake Loop. It is an easy loop that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and reflections in the still waters of Sprague Lake.

The area is also great for spotting wildlife, such as moose, birds, and other animals.

Sprague Lake Trail / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Stats:

• Start: Sprague Lake Trailhead
• Distance: 0.5 miles (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 20 feet
• Time: 20-30 minutes (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy

Sprague Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain 

Next, on the itinerary is Bierstadt Lake from Bear Lake Trailhead.

Bierstadt Lake Trail from Bear Lake Trailhead / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

Stats:

• Start: Bear Lake Trailhead
• Finish: Bear Lake Trailhead
• Distance: 3.2 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 255 feet
• Time: 1.5-2 hours (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Bierstadt Lake / 5 Days in Rocky Mountain National Park 

From Bear Lake Trailhead, the hike to Bierstadt Lake starts on a gradual ascent through forested paths.

You’ll eventually be greeted with views of Bierstadt Lake, nestled at the base of the Continental Divide, surrounded by rugged peaks such as Longs Peak and McHenrys Peak.

GOOD TO KNOW: The lake offers breathtaking views, and there’s a spur trail that leads to the best photo vantage point from the eastern shore.​

PRO TIP: Once you reach Bear Road after finishing your hike to Bierstadt Lake, you can take the Bear Lake Road Shuttle back to the Bear Lake Trailhead if you prefer not to walk back. The shuttle is a convenient way to save energy and get back to your car after a rewarding day of hiking​.