Big Meadows via Green Mountain Trail

Big Meadows is a 3.6-mile out-and-back from Green Mountain Trailhead to the bouldered edge of a broad high-country meadow. The meadow is about 1.8 miles one way; allow around two hours and roughly 600 feet of climbing. It is a good moderate choice on the west side if an open meadow and its ring of peaks are the payoff you want. The trail starts near 8,800 feet, so give the climb time.

Follow Green Mountain Trail from the trailhead. The first half-mile is the steadiest climb, then the grade eases with a few short steeper pitches and small meadow openings. Near the Tonahutu Creek junction, look for the horse-hitch sign and follow the faint path downhill to the boulders along Big Meadows. That is the turnaround for this hike. Continuing north on Tonahutu Creek Trail goes farther; the Big Meadows Group campsite, a separate destination, is 2.6 miles one way from the trailhead.

Parts of Green Mountain Trail cross the area affected by the 2013 Big Meadows Fire. The open slopes have less shade, with standing snags and regrowth along the tread. Watch for loose branches near dead trees when it is windy. The meadow edge can be marshy in spring.

Large boulders at the edge make a natural place to stop and look across the broad meadow toward Nakai Peak, Snowdrift Peak and Mount Patterson. Tonahutu Creek runs along the meadow’s eastern side. Tonahutu is an Arapaho word for “big meadows,” a fitting name for the opening at the end of the climb. Moose and elk use smaller meadow openings along the approach, but sightings are never guaranteed.

Park at Green Mountain Trailhead on US 34, about 3.1 miles north of Kawuneeche Visitor Center. A valid park entrance fee or pass is required. Pets are prohibited on all trails and meadows in Rocky Mountain National Park. No food, drinking water or restroom at the trailhead or along this route was identified in the checked sources.