Deer Mountain Trailhead — Attraction in Estes Park

I've summited Deer Mountain twice, once in the summer and once in the winter, and gone partway on the trail many other times. I recommend this for hikers of all capabilities. I've seen people run it in light gear, and people with full kit using it as training for more challenging trails. My favorite reason to bring newcomers to RMNP to this trail is that the starting mile or so is very open and in a place with great views. Beginning hikers can get good pictures without too long a hike. It's also less crowded than Bear Lake gets. The middle part through the woods can turn into a bit of a slog up the switchbacks, but more great views await. The final half mile push to the summit through more woods feels long, but is fairly flat. The summit is well worth it, with views of both Estes Park and the southern parts of RMNP, including a great view of Longs Peak. The descent will be faster, but give yourself time to do it. The path will get very dark, very quickly, after sunset, bring lights if you're hiking it in the late afternoon and want to push into the evening. You probably won't need snowshoes in the winter, unless there is very fresh snow, but good boots and micro spikes will help. In the summer, be ready to shed a layer, and bring sun protection. The open vistas are beautiful, but will also expose you to plenty of sunlight. As always in these trails, bring plenty of water, both in...

One of the best hikes in the park for a whole park view! The parking is easy and there are plenty of spaces in the winter but it can be hard to get in the summer months. The trail itself is easy to follow even with some snow and there aren't any really steep spots or areas along cliffs so it's easy for all ages. The first mile or so has great views of Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains then you head into the woods for the last half of the way up until you reach the peak. The top has near 360° views of the park.

I would recommend at least spikes for winter hiking. We had snowshoes which were helpful but not necessary. It is about 6 miles total and you'll gain about 1,400 feet in elevation. It took us about 3.5 hours with some stopping...

So I will say this, its definitely worth the view if you make it to the top, but do want to inform you that it is a bit more challenging as you get closer to that summit. Want to advise you as well to make sure you pack enough water. 90% of hikers coming down hill already had empty water bottles. Def. pack a snack or two in your backpack so when you get to that beautiful top you can relax and take in the views and reset your energy! Round trip i would say a little over 6 miles. P.S. also where good hiking shoes or trail runners. Flip flops will last you 10 mins tops lol! But you will overall enjoy this hike, just give yourself...