East Inlet Trail

The East Inlet Trail is a hiking route in Rocky Mountain National Park that leads from Grand Lake eastward to a chain of alpine lakes nestled in the mountains. The path climbs through varied terrain and passes several waterfalls as it winds through the high country.

The path was developed in 1934 by the National Park Service, with Public Works Administration workers constructing the section between Lone Pine Lake and Lake Verna. In the 1940s, the Civilian Conservation Corps enhanced the route further by building specialized sections.

The trail earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005, marking its role in the development of outdoor recreation infrastructure.

The route is well-maintained with stone steps and handrails at challenging crossings like Adam Falls to aid hikers safely. Visitors should prepare for changing elevation and possible water crossings along the way.

What sets this route apart are the specialized causeway sections built in 1940 to guide hikers safely through areas that were once impassable swampland. These structures show how early infrastructure builders solved difficult terrain challenges.

Location: Grand County

Inception: 1934

Architects: National Park Service

GPS coordinates: 40.23942,-105.79989

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:42