Deer Mountain Trail

Deer Mountain Trailhead

NPS

• Distance: 3.1 miles one-way (4.8 m)
• Elevation Gain: 1,410 feet (330 m)
• Type of Trail: Out & Back

At an elevation of 10,006 feet, the summit of Deer Mountain offers scenic views of Longs Peak, Upper Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park and Estes Park. Begin your hike at Deer Mountain Trailhead. Parking is available along Trail Ridge Road, near Deer Ridge Junction (where U.S. Highway 34 and U.S Highway 36 meet on the east side of RMNP).

Be Weather Aware: Pay attention to the weather, especially afternoon thunderstorms that can produce lightning. If thunder roars, lightning is not far behind.

How to Manage Lightning Risk When Recreating in Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Most importantly, be aware of your surroundings and know the most high-risk places to be compared to the safest locations to be when recreating in the mountains. When it comes to lighting, there are no fully safe options in the outdoors.
• Avoid the tops of mountain peaks or exposed areas above treeline.
• If out hiking, try to shelter at a lower elevation near a cluster of trees that are shorter that other trees nearby. Do not stand next to the tallest object in the area.
• If possible, seek shelter in a low-elevation dry ditch or gully. Avoid areas near water.  

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited on all trails within Rocky Mountain National Park.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Deer Mountain Trailhead

The Deer Mountain Trailhead is located at Deer Ridge Junction, near where U.S. Highway 34 and U.S. Highway 36 merge on the east side of RMNP and where Trail Ridge Road begins.

Reservations

Yes

Depending on what time of day you would like to hike, you might need a Timed Entry reservation. Reservations are requied to access most areas of Rocky Mountain National Park between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

To learn more, visit the park's Timed Entry Permit Reservation webpage at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm

Accessibility Information

The Deer Mountain Trail has rugged and uneven terrain made from soil and rock. There are exposed features like tree roots and branches. This is an out and back hike that is 6.2 miles round-trip. The elevation gain is 1,410 feet.