Exploring the Alluvial Fan in Rocky Mountain National Park: A Quick & Scenic Hike

Looking for a quick and easy hike with big views and fascinating geology? The Alluvial Fan Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see, and late November turned out to be the perfect time to explore it.

So, what is an alluvial fan?

Alluvial Fan in Rocky Mountain National Park

You can reach the Alluvial Fan from either the east or west trailhead. We opted for the west side trail, which begins just off Old Fall River Road.

There’s a parking area here with a restroom, and the trail itself is handicap accessible, making it a great option for a wide range of visitors.

We arrived in Estes Park earlier that afternoon and headed into RMNP around 3:15 p.m. There were no lines at the park entrance — a nice perk of visiting in the off-season!

From the west parking lot, the trail meanders along the Roaring River, which was partially frozen during our visit.

The mix of flowing water and ice created incredible formations, with holes in the ice offering little glimpses of the current underneath. It was such a unique sight — peaceful, beautiful, and just a bit otherworldly.

After a short 0.2-mile walk, we reached the wooden bridge that crosses the Roaring River.

On the other side of the bridge, you’ll reach a viewpoint with sign explaining the Alluvial Fan and what makes it so special.

If you’re not familiar with the story, the Alluvial Fan was created by the dramatic 1982 Lawn Lake Flood, and there’s another sign here detailing the flood’s impact on the area. Both signs are worth a pause to read and reflect.

There are benches at the viewpoint, and we took a few moments to just sit and soak in the scenery.

Snow-dusted peaks in the background, icy water flowing through the rocky debris of the fan — it’s the kind of simple beauty that’s easy to miss if you’re always rushing from one major destination to the next.

In total, we spent about 20 minutes on the trail, but you could easily do it faster. That said, we highly recommend taking your time — especially if you enjoy nature photography.

Whether you’re looking for a quick stop in RMNP, an accessible trail for all visitors, or just a peaceful place to start your trip, the Alluvial Fan hike from the west side trailhead checks all the boxes.

Check out: Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter