The Lumpy Ridge Loop at Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado is a difficult 11.7-mile loop hike that leads to Gem Lake and encompasses the Lumpy Ridge.
Trails
This hike follows several named trails at the park in the following order: Gem Lake Trail, Dark Mountain Trail, Black Canyon Trail, and the Lumpy Ridge Trail.
Hike
Start at the Gem Lake trailhead and go in either direction to complete the Lump Loop. This route leads in a counter-clockwise direction by taking the Gem Lake Trail first. You'll have great views from the front (south) side and can see lots of flowers and wildlife along the way. You can find water to filter at several points along the loop. The rock outcroppings are fun to check out and scramble around if you have enough energy, or just sit and relax for a minute at Gem lake.
Parking
Hikers will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided, located at the end of Lumpy Ridge Road.
Timed-Entry Reservations
Between the months of late May through early October you must purchase a timed-entry pass to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. If you wish to visitor and hike anything off of the Bear Lake Road, you must purchase a dedicated Bear Lake timed-entry pass. You can find more information about timed entry on the park's website.
Pets
Dogs are not allowed on any trails at Rocky Mountain National Park, including this trail.
Camping & Backpacking
There are backcountry campsites along this trail; however, backpackers are only allowed to camp at designated areas if carrying a valid backcountry permit. Permits are available at park Wilderness Permit and Information Offices. Campfires are only allowed in certain areas where metal fire rings are provided. If planning to camp please respect the park and its visitors by following all rules and regulations.
Trails
This hike follows several named trails at the park in the following order: Gem Lake Trail, Dark Mountain Trail, Black Canyon Trail, and the Lumpy Ridge Trail.
Hike
Start at the Gem Lake trailhead and go in either direction to complete the Lump Loop. This route leads in a counter-clockwise direction by taking the Gem Lake Trail first. You'll have great views from the front (south) side and can see lots of flowers and wildlife along the way. You can find water to filter at several points along the loop. The rock outcroppings are fun to check out and scramble around if you have enough energy, or just sit and relax for a minute at Gem lake.
Parking
Hikers will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided, located at the end of Lumpy Ridge Road.
Timed-Entry Reservations
Between the months of late May through early October you must purchase a timed-entry pass to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. If you wish to visitor and hike anything off of the Bear Lake Road, you must purchase a dedicated Bear Lake timed-entry pass. You can find more information about timed entry on the park's website.
Pets
Dogs are not allowed on any trails at Rocky Mountain National Park, including this trail.
Camping & Backpacking
There are backcountry campsites along this trail; however, backpackers are only allowed to camp at designated areas if carrying a valid backcountry permit. Permits are available at park Wilderness Permit and Information Offices. Campfires are only allowed in certain areas where metal fire rings are provided. If planning to camp please respect the park and its visitors by following all rules and regulations.
