Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

Route Description for Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Hike

The Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Trail is an incredible experience. Departing from the lake, hikers will ascend the timberline and hike a stunning exposed meadow that delivers panoramic views of the surrounding craggy peaks! Though the exposure rewards us with uninterrupted views, it means windy conditions! Wear layers as insurance against inclement weather! Note that the path is located within the boundaries of the Rocky Mountain national Park, thus visitors are required to purchase a park pass.

Embark on your expedition along the Poudre Lake to Alpine Ridge Trail from the Milner Pass Trailhead. From here, track the Ute Trail up a set of switchbacks before it guides you northeast. The initial segment of the trial will travel through sparse tree coverage before graduating the timberline. From here, ascend the meadowlands and revel in the expansive vistas. Eventually, you will meet a fork in the road, keep left and you will climb the Ute Trail all the way up to the Trail Ridge Visitors Centre.

From here, you can turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead or cross the street and continue up the Alpine Ridge Trail. If you do venture the extension to the true overlook, note it is steep, but the views are well worth the effort.