Andrew Glacier Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
4.5-6h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.5 km
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.
689 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Andrew Glacier Trail is a scenic expedition through Colorado’s high-country. Exhibiting the diversity of the Rocky Mountain National Park, this hike will guide you through several typographies before delivering you to a glacier and tarn.

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Route Description for Andrew Glacier Trail

The Andrew Glacial is an adventure reserved for experienced hikers who are acclimated to the high altitude of the area. Though challenging, this hike is incredibly picturesque. Hike through aspen groves, past waterfalls, through alpine tundras and up to Andrew Glacier. Put your endurance to the test as you conquer this alpine escapade. This trail weaves between tree shade and exposed paths up to high elevations, so wear layers as insurance against the ever-changing conditions on the diverse trail. We would also suggest checking the forecast prior to your adventure to avoid getting caught in inclement weather in the mountain cirque. Note: hikers are required to purchase a Rocky Mountain National Park pass.

Embark on your adventure up the Andrew Glacier Trail from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. From here, track across the Chaos Creek and at the second intersection, veer left onto the Glacier Gorge Trail. Hike through the aspen grove up to the Alberta Falls. Continue along the path, trekking along Glacier Creek. Eventually, you will confront another intersection, stay right here. This route will guide you along the base of the Glacier Knobs before leading you to another junction. Of the three trails, take the middle route up to Loch Lake.

Travel along the shoreline and at the next fork in the road, take the Andrew Glacier Trail northwest. This route will deliver you to Andrew Tarn and Glacier. Revel in the vista of the Glacier that sits along the cliffs of the Continental Divide. Appreciate the grandeur of the encompassing wilderness and rejuvenate your tired feet in the freezing waters of the tarn. To get back to the trailhead, retrace your steps all the way back along the paths.

Getting to the Andrew Glacier Trail Trailhead

The Andrew Glacier Trail departs from the Glacial Gorge Trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    July -October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Andrew Glacier Trail Elevation Graph

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Andrew Glacier Trail Reviews

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