Moraine Park Trail

Overview

This is a mostly-flat meadow loop with big sky, bigger views, and near-constant chances to spot wildlife. Expect a mix of true footpath along the Big Thompson River and short stretches on park roads. The classic loop is about 4.8 miles total with roughly 120 feet of gain, taking most hikers around 2.5 hours. Variations exist: a shorter loop around 3.3 miles (more road, a bit more up-and-down) and longer options that venture toward Tuxedo Park.

What You’ll See

Moraine Park is a textbook glacial landscape: a broad valley floor (ground moraine) bounded by low ridges (lateral moraines), with the Big Thompson River curling through oxbows, wetlands, and ponds. Views change as you circle the meadow—watch for prominent Divide summits to the west, Longs Peak rising over the south lateral moraine, and the Mummy Range and Deer Mountain to the north and east. It’s open, photogenic terrain from start to finish.

Wildlife

Elk are the headliners here, especially during the fall rut, but you can also spot deer, coyotes cruising the meadows in winter, and a variety of birds year-round. Give all wildlife a generous buffer—elk can be unpredictable, and seasonal closures are put in place to protect both animals and visitors.

Route Tips

A counter-clockwise circuit helps you finish the road segment earlier in the day when traffic is lighter. The south side of the loop has a few unmarked paths that braid and rejoin; staying left generally keeps you near the meadow edge. After snow or during spring runoff, expect trickier navigation and potentially wet feet at small creek crossings like Cub Creek—sometimes a drier crossing is just uphill.

Best Time to Hike

Summer is the sweet spot for easy walking, lush meadows, and straightforward navigation. Fall brings the elk rut—fantastic viewing but also the highest chance of area closures; check conditions and be flexible. In winter, winds often keep the meadow scoured enough for simple walking, but fresh snow can obscure those unmarked segments; traction or snowshoes may be needed depending on conditions. Regardless of season, start early for quieter roads, softer light, and easier parking.

Good to Know

Parts of the loop follow Fern Lake Road or the campground road—stay alert for vehicles and don’t trespass near private cottages on the periphery. Pets aren’t allowed on the trail itself; leashed dogs are only permitted on the paved campground road portion. Anglers can work the Big Thompson along the loop—just be sure you know and follow all fishing regulations.