The Ten Essentials
Overview
| Wilderness One Way Length Beginning Elevation Peak Elevation Gain/Loss/Net Gain Ratings USFS Regulations Trails Illustrated Quadrangle |
None 2.0 miles (trailhead to summit) 8,785 9,712 1,107/180/+927 Hikers – Easy to Moderate; Stock Riders – Not Recommended National Forest #200 Rocky Mountain National Park Long’s Peak |
Location
The trailhead is located 5.8 miles south of Estes Park on CO-7 just before the 6-mile marker. There is a small pull-off area by the trailhead sign. Another option is to park at Lily Lake and walk down the highway to the trailhead. There is a capital improvement project planned for the future to tie the trailhead to the lake. Facilities are available at Lily Lake. Riders: No trailer parking is available.
| GPS Coordinates Trailhead Summit |
N40°18.828’ W105°32.120’ Map N40°19.153’ W105°32.483’ |
Description
From the trailhead you will hike to the north, above and parallel to CO-7. During the first mile, you will climb gradually, through pine forest. There are several interesting rock outcroppings along the way. After about 1 mile, you will come to a large rock outcropping on the north shoulder of Lily Mountain. From this point you will have great views of RMNP to the west, and the town of Estes Park in the valley below. From here the trail will climb sharply to the south up the north ridge of Lily Mountain for approximately 0.7 miles. The last 0.1 mile to the summit is marked by cairns. Once on the summit, you are rewarded with great views of RMNP to the north and west, and the Crags to the southeast.
