Trail Description

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The short but steep climb to Estes Cone rewards hikers with panoramic views of Longs Peak, the Continental Divide and Estes Park area.

The trail begins on a moderate ascent through a thick pine forest highlighted by sporadic aspen clusters. At .5 miles the trail splits for Longs Peak and Chasm Lake - follow the sign and bear right for Estes Cone.

The trail continues on a steady yet manageable climb through coniferous forest before flatting out at just before 1.3 miles. Here, a wooden brige is provided for a minor stream crossing. Across the bridge lay the remnants of the Eugenia Mine site, a settler era gold mine which in the words of the park "produced more dreams than gold".

After Eugenia Mine, the trail begins to descend, passing the desirable Moore Park backcountry campsite at 1.6 miles (9,732'). A short distance later at the 1.8 mile mark, the trail rises sharpy in elevation as you begin the climb to the summit.

The final split is the last and most challenging trail segment covering almost 1000' in just .7 miles. This section is extremely steep in some areas and footing can be challenging, especially when covered with moisture. Cairns are in place to help identify the trail, but can be difficult to spot with snow cover (when in doubt, keep climbing up!). The last 20 yards is an easy scramble up steep scree.

The Cone's pinnacle offers sweeping 360-degree views of Rocky Mountain's Continental Divide and the surrounding area. Many named peaks can be identified from the top including Twin Sisters, Hallet Peak and Flattop Mountain.

Worth Noting

• Most of the trail's net elevation is gained in the final 1.2 miles.


• Views are mostly limited en route, but are exceptional from the top.


• The Cone's pinnacle is very exposed to wind and sun.


• Moore Park (1.7 miles one-way from trailhead) offers 2 individual back- country campsites.

Camping and Backpacking Information

Moore Park Backcountry Campsite: located 1.6 miles from the Longs Peak Trailhead at 9732'. Total Ascent to the campsite is 488'.

Directions to Trailhead

Estes Cone is accessible from the Longs Peak Trailhead along the west side of Highway 7 between Allenspark and Estes Park. The trailhead is located 7.5 miles south of Estes Park on the west side of Highway 7. There is no fee for this entrance to the park. Parking is limited and the lot fills up early in the summer season.

Contact Information

RMNP Main Visitor Information:
970-586-1206

Backcountry Passes:
970-586-1242

Campground Reservations:
800-365-2267