North Inlet Trail, Hiking trail in Grand County, Colorado, US
The North Inlet Trail is a hiking path that runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, starting from Grand Lake and heading toward Flattop Mountain across varied landscapes. An additional side route, the Nokoni-Nanita Spur, allows hikers to extend their journey and explore a wider section of the terrain network.
The trail underwent reconstruction between 1926 and 1931 by the National Park Service, connecting existing pathways under landscape architect Allison van V. Dunn's direction. In 2008, the route earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places for its designed features and approach to land stewardship.
The trail's name references the inlet shaped by glaciers, reflecting how visitors have explored this mountain landscape for generations. Today, hikers use the path to experience the wilderness directly and connect with the surrounding peaks on foot.
The route starts at Grand Lake and presents varying difficulty depending on how much of the network you choose to explore. Proper footwear and preparation for mountain conditions will help make your hike safer and more enjoyable.
The path was designed by a notable landscape architect who brought knowledge about conservation and trail building into every detail, visible in the carefully planned curves and grades. This crafted approach sets it apart from simple mountain paths and makes it an example of intentional wilderness route planning.
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