Distance to Mount Alice Rocky Mountain National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

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The distance to Mount Alice in Rocky Mountain National Park is approximately 18 miles round trip from the Wild Basin trailhead. This challenging hike involves a total elevation gain of about 4,810 feet and typically takes 12-14 hours to complete. The trail passes through diverse terrains, including tranquil lakes, alpine meadows, and steep ridges, offering a true wilderness experience for experienced hikers.

What is the Starting Point for the Mount Alice Hike?

distance to mount alice rocky mountain national park
Image ‘File:Rocky Mountains around Mount Ida, Rocky Mountains National Park 20110824 1.jpg’ by DXR, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The journey to Mount Alice begins at the Wild Basin trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. This trailhead serves as the gateway to one of the park’s most remote and challenging hikes. Here’s what you need to know about the starting point:

  • Location: Wild Basin trailhead is situated in the southeastern part of Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Facilities: The trailhead offers basic amenities such as parking, restrooms, and informational signage.
  • Elevation: The starting elevation is approximately 8,500 feet above sea level.

How Far is Mount Alice from the Trailhead?

distance to mount alice rocky mountain national park
Image ‘File:View of Rocky Mountains National Park from US-36, looking SW 20110824 1.jpg’ by DXR, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The distance from the Wild Basin trailhead to Mount Alice is not a straightforward path. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:

  1. Initial Trail: Hikers follow the Thunder Lake trail for about 5 miles.
  2. Lion Lakes Turnoff: At this point, the trail branches off towards Lion Lakes.
  3. Alpine Approach: From Lion Lakes, hikers traverse alpine meadows and boulderfields to reach the base of Mount Alice.
  4. Final Ascent: The last portion involves a steep climb to the summit.

Total one-way distance: Approximately 9 miles

What is the Total Round-Trip Distance and Estimated Time?

The Mount Alice hike is a substantial undertaking. Here are the key metrics:

  • Round-Trip Distance:
  • Via Hourglass Ridge: ~17 miles
  • Via Boulder-Grand Pass: ~19.1 miles
  • Estimated Time: 12-14 hours for the entire round trip
Route Distance Estimated Time
Hourglass Ridge 17 miles 12-14 hours
Boulder-Grand Pass 19.1 miles 12-14 hours

It’s crucial to start early and be prepared for a full day of hiking.

How Much Elevation Gain is Involved?

The elevation gain for the Mount Alice hike is significant:

  • Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 4,810 feet
  • Starting Elevation: ~8,500 feet (Wild Basin trailhead)
  • Summit Elevation: 13,310 feet

This substantial elevation gain contributes to the hike’s difficulty and requires good physical conditioning.

What Are the Specific Challenges and Conditions?

Hiking to Mount Alice presents several challenges:

  1. Terrain Variety:
  2. Tranquil lakes
  3. Alpine meadows
  4. Boulderfields

  5. Steep, exposed ridges (e.g., Hourglass Ridge)

  6. Weather Considerations:

  7. Unpredictable mountain weather
  8. Sudden thunderstorms

  9. Severe conditions due to high elevation and remote location

  10. Accessibility Issues:

  11. No cell service at campsites
  12. Limited access to amenities

  13. Seasonal closures (February 15 to July 31) due to raptor nesting

  14. Technical Difficulty:

  15. Exposed sections on Hourglass Ridge
  16. Loose rock in some areas
  17. Steep east face of Mount Alice

How Should Hikers Prepare for the Mount Alice Trek?

Given the challenges of the Mount Alice hike, proper preparation is essential:

  1. Physical Conditioning:
  2. Build endurance with long day hikes

  3. Practice hiking at high elevations

  4. Equipment:

  5. Sturdy hiking boots
  6. Trekking poles
  7. Layered clothing for varying temperatures
  8. Rain gear

  9. First aid kit

  10. Navigation:

  11. Topographic map
  12. Compass or GPS device

  13. Familiarity with the route

  14. Food and Water:

  15. Ample water (at least 3 liters per person)

  16. High-energy snacks and meals

  17. Emergency Preparedness:

  18. Emergency shelter
  19. Headlamp with extra batteries
  20. Whistle for signaling

What Are the Best Seasons for Hiking Mount Alice?

The optimal time to hike Mount Alice is typically from late June to early September. Consider these factors:

  • Summer (July-August):
  • Peak season with best weather
  • Potential for afternoon thunderstorms

  • Crowded trails

  • Early Fall (September):

  • Cooler temperatures
  • Less chance of thunderstorms

  • Potential for early snow

  • Late Spring/Early Summer (Late June):

  • Snowfields may still be present
  • Wildflowers begin to bloom
  • Less crowded

Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your hike.

What Permits Are Required for the Mount Alice Hike?

To hike Mount Alice in Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll need:

  1. Park Entrance Pass: Required for all visitors entering the park
  2. Wilderness Camping Permit: If planning an overnight trip (recommended for most hikers)
  3. Timed Entry Permit: May be required during peak seasons (check park website for current requirements)

Secure all necessary permits well in advance, especially for summer weekends.

The distance to Mount Alice in Rocky Mountain National Park presents a formidable challenge for experienced hikers. With proper preparation, respect for the wilderness, and an early start, the journey to this remote peak offers a rewarding adventure in one of America’s most beautiful national parks.

References:
– The Adventuring Heidi – Mount Alice Hike
– Mountain Project – Mt. Alice
– SummitPost – Mount Alice

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