East Inlet Trail

Route Description for East Inlet Trail

The East Inlet Trail is a wonderful day hike in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). Hike from Grand Lake and through the subalpine wilderness to Lone Pine Lake. Charming and well-maintained, the East Inlet Trail is highly frequented, so expect to share the trail with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. If you are seeking a more secluded adventure, try visiting in the shoulder season and always arrive early! Planning on venturing this oath in the fall or winter? Wear microspikes or snowshoes to help navigate the likely icy and snow cloaked trail. Located within the RMNP, hikers are required to purchase a park pass to utilize the trails.

Begin your adventure along the East Inlet Trail from the trailhead. From here, the East Inlet Trail tracks southeast. Shortly after your departure from the trailhead, you will encounter an intersection, veer right and you will be diverted onto the Adams Falls Loop. Hike around the loop, past the cascading Adams Falls before merging back onto the East Inlet Trail. Trek east along the East Inlet River to a meadowland. Often there are elk and deer spotted in this area. Continue along this route as it weaves you between tree coverage and open plains. Eventually, you will pass dispersed campsites and cross a footbridge over an alpine stream.

As you hike deeper into the wilderness, the trail will gradually ascend towards the lake. Follow the path, cross another footbridge and past several campsites before arriving at the lake. From Lone Pine Lake, enjoy sights of the flanking snow dusted peaks and the verdant subalpine woodlands below. Take a break, revel in the mountainous scenery and dip your tired feet in the chilly lake. When you are ready to head back, simply retrace your steps the way you came. If you want to revisit Adams Falls, take the Adams Falls Loop again or maintain along the East Inlet Trail back to the trailhead.