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Deer Mountain: A Rocky Mountain National Park Gem

Hike Deer Mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park for panoramic views of Estes Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide. A rewarding summit experience!

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Deer Mountain, located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, offers a moderate 6.2-mile hike to a summit with stunning 360-degree views. This popular trail provides panoramic vistas of Estes Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.

A brief summary to Deer Mountain

  • Colorado, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking at the Deer Ridge Junction trailhead, as it fills up quickly.
  • Check the weather forecast before hiking, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Bring plenty of water, as there is no water available along the 6.2-mile trail.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the uneven and rocky terrain.
  • Be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms and aim to be back at the trailhead by noon.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Estes Park, drive west on US-36 for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto US-34/Trail Ridge Road. Continue for about 2 miles to Deer Ridge Junction. Parking is available on the side of the road near the trailhead. Parking is free, but limited, so arrive early. A park pass is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park; daily passes cost $30-$35, depending on the duration. An annual pass is also available.

  • Public Transport

    While there is a shuttle system within Rocky Mountain National Park, it does not directly service the Deer Mountain Trailhead. The closest shuttle stop is likely the park's visitor center, from which you would need to find alternative transportation (taxi/rideshare) to the Deer Ridge Junction. A taxi or rideshare from the visitor center to the trailhead would cost approximately $20-$30.

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Discover more about Deer Mountain

Deer Mountain, a prominent peak within Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, stands at 10,013 feet. The 6.2-mile round trip hike to its summit is a favorite among park visitors, offering a balance of challenge and reward. The trail begins at Deer Ridge Junction, located where U.S. Highways 34 and 36 meet. Parking is available along Trail Ridge Road, but it's best to arrive early due to limited space. A timed entry reservation may be required to access the park, especially between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Deer Mountain Trail gradually ascends through a diverse landscape, starting in a mature ponderosa pine forest. The path meanders through open meadows, providing early views of Little Horseshoe Park and the Mummy Range. As you climb, switchbacks ease the ascent, revealing ever-expanding vistas of Moraine Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide. The final stretch to the summit involves a steeper climb with rocky steps. At the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking 360-degree views. From this vantage point, you can see Estes Park, Moraine Park, Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, the Mummy Range, and the mountains along the Continental Divide. The summit also features a bronze-colored summit marker embedded in the rock, a satisfying discovery for those who reach the top. Deer and elk may be spotted along the trail. Deer Mountain's history includes the Deer Ridge Chalet, a thriving tourist business that operated from 1917 to 1960. The chalet included a lodge, cabins, restaurant, filling station, a 50-foot observation tower, and a ski run. Rocky Mountain National Park acquired the property in 1960 and removed the structures. Today, Deer Mountain remains a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views and a connection to the park's natural and cultural history.

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