Twin Sisters

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Geological Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

A challenging but rewarding out-and-back run with beautiful views of foothills and surrounding peaks south of Estes Park.

All animals are prohibited on this trail. Due to erosion from the severe flooding rains in Summer of 2013, this is a natural restoration area. Stay on the marked trail at all times. The trail is extremely rocky for most of the distance, except in the months when the trail is snow-covered. I saw a few trail runners making great time in both directions, so the rocks must not have been an obstacle for them.

Arrive early in the morning for the best views, and parking. There are limited roadside (right side ONLY) spaces available near the trailhead. However, there are times when the roadside parking near the trailhead is closed, so only the parking lot is available. Overflow parking across from Lily Lake adds mileage to the hike.

From the Twin Sisters / Lily Lake Trailhead, start running up the Twin Sisters Trail. This is a very popular trail/trailhead, especially in the summertime, so be ready for some crowds.

The trail begins its first series of switchbacks about a quarter of a mile from the trailhead. At this point the trail is mostly contained in a dense forest so the views of Longs Peak are fleeting.

After the first series of switchbacks, the trail levels out to a much more manageable grade and contours to the south along the mountain's western shoulder. There is a large wash just before the next series of switchbacks that offers unobstructed views of Longs and all points westward.

Gather your strength and run through the seemingly never-ending switchback towards the summit. Eventually, you'll break out above tree line and the views will increase exponentially. Continue up the ridge to the Twin Sisters Peak Summit Spur and scramble to one of the two summits.