Lily Mountain

Lily Mountain Traverse: 4 miles, 1,300 feet of elevation gain

This route will begin inside of RMNP, ascend through a popular rock climbing area, and reach the summit via its long southern ridge.  Return on the standard trail thereby completing a loop.

Beginning at Lily Lake in RMNP, ascend sharply (600' over a quarter mile) on an eroded climbers' trail into the wonderful rock walls of "Jurassic Park".  Explore the various high points and rock "bathtubs" of the area and pass through a true rock arch.  Views of Longs Peak dominate.

Leaving the climbing area, head cross-country on a faint, cairned route paralleling the ridge on its east side before climbing up to it and beginning a rocky traverse along the ridge's west side.  A final Class 3 scramble will get us to the top of Lily Mountain.

You can either return the way you came or descend via the standard trail and return to the trailhead by walking up Hwy 7 for a half-mile.  As an option to consider, there is a social trail that diverts from the Lily Mountain Trail and heads out to the summit of Rams Horn Mountain.  As an out-and-back, this option adds 2.2 miles to the trip.

• Suitable Activities: Climbing, Hiking, Scrambling
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• High Point: 9,786 ft

• Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
  Rocky Mountain National Park, Canyon Lakes Ranger District (ARNF)
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fees
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12