Kruger Rock Trail Parking

About

The trailhead for Kruger Rock, a short hike with a big view of Longs Peak and the Estes Valley. It's in Larimer County's Hermit Park, not the national park, so dogs are welcome on a leash. Worth the climb.

Kruger Rock Trail starts in Hermit Park Open Space, just east of Estes Park off US 36. You pay at the entrance, then drive a steep dirt road to the trailhead parking. The hike runs a bit over three miles round trip, with roughly 900 to 1,000 feet of gain depending on the source, and tops out around 9,300 feet. It climbs through meadows and pines, then finishes with a short scramble to the summit. Views include Twin Sisters, Mount Meeker, and Longs Peak. It's hiking only, with no bikes or horses.

This is the one I send people to when the national park feels like too much. I'd go in the morning for parking and cooler weather. A daily or annual county permit is required, so check the county before you go. Dogs are allowed, but leash them at ten feet maximum, and keep an eye out for moose and bears. Late spring through early fall is the easy window, and the park has closed for part of winter, so check first. Bring water, a layer, and sturdy shoes for the final rocks.