Hollowell Park

Quiet meadows, creekside loop, and a convenient picnic stop

InsideRocky Mountain National Park

Overview

Hollowell Park is a mellow, meadowy trailhead along Bear Lake Road that trades the crush of the marquee lakes for open views and calm vibes. You step right into broad fields with Longs Peak on the skyline, then slide into cool forest and creekside walking as soon as you head up Mill Creek.

Trails from Here

Mill Creek Basin Loop (about 3.6 miles): A satisfying sampler—meadows to forest to flower-studded clearings—following Mill Creek. Expect some steeper pitches, a less-traveled back half that can be overgrown, and a section through a burned area.
Bear Lake to Hollowell Park (about 5.2 miles one-way): A lovely descent that connects the Bear Lake high country to this trailhead. You’ll need to arrange a car or shuttle at Hollowell Park if you don’t want to hike back. Some stretches double as horse trail.

This area sees hikers year-round. In winter, conditions vary widely—be ready with traction (microspikes or snowshoes) and extra layers.

Picnic & Facilities

Right by the parking area you’ll find picnic tables and vault toilets, making this an easy base for a relaxed lunch-and-a-walk day. There are no built-in fire grates; portable grills may be used only under park rules for extinguishing and disposal. Parking is straightforward, and the summer shuttle (Moraine Park Route) serves the corridor.

Wildlife & What You’ll See

Those open meadows aren’t just pretty—they’re good spots to scan for elk, especially around dawn and dusk. Keep distance and give wildlife the right of way. Expect wildflowers in summer and a cool, shaded creek corridor higher up.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning: Best for solitude, wildlife activity, and soft light on Longs Peak.
Late afternoon: Warm, directional light in the meadows and cooler temps for the climb.
Weekdays beat weekends for parking and quiet. It’s open year‑round, but winter traction may be necessary.

Logistics & Reservations

During the reservation season and hours, Bear Lake Road areas (including Hollowell Park) require a Park Access+ timed‑entry reservation. Entries are in two‑hour windows and there’s no set departure time. Plan ahead so you’re not turned around at the entrance.

Pros

Quieter alternative to the Bear Lake corridor with big meadow views
Multiple hikes start here, including a scenic Mill Creek Basin loop
Handy picnic area with tables and vault toilets

Cons

Some trail sections are steep, overgrown, and pass through a burned area
Parts of routes are shared with horses
No built-in fire grates at the picnic area

Tips

If visiting during reservation season, book a Park Access+ timed-entry for Bear Lake Road.
At the initial Y on the loop, the right fork is steeper and less traveled.
Bring bug spray in summer; meadows and creekside stretches can be buggy.
Carry traction in winter—microspikes or snowshoes depending on conditions.
Doing Bear Lake to Hollowell Park one-way? Stage a car or plan a shuttle.