Into the Mountains: Exploring East Inlet Trail

Best Fall Hikes in Grand Lake, Colorado

A golden autumn morning hike from Grand Lake along the East Inlet Trail — a day of waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildlife, and mountain calm that ended in pure Colorado magic.

We woke to another bright, crisp morning in Grand Lake, sunlight spilling over the mountains and reflecting off the water below. The air was cool, with that distinct hint of fall that makes coffee taste richer and colors more vivid. After grabbing a steaming cup and a pastry from Jumpstart Coffee and Tea downtown, we decided to stretch our legs one last time before heading back through Rocky Mountain National Park.

Locals had recommended the East Inlet Trail, known for its combination of waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and access to some of the park’s most picturesque views. The trailhead starts just beyond the east end of Grand Lake, tucked beneath the pines, where the sound of rushing water echoes in the distance. Within minutes, we reached the famous Adams Falls — a powerful cascade pouring through narrow granite walls. The mist on our faces set the tone for the hike ahead.

Past the falls, the trail opened into wide meadows rimmed with quaking aspens, their leaves shimmering gold against a cloudless sky. The sound of elk bugles carried faintly through the valley, a reminder that autumn here is as alive as it is fleeting. Every turn brought new views — streams cutting through fields of tall grass, the jagged peaks of the Continental Divide framing the horizon, and sunlight glinting off the winding creek below.

About two and a half miles in, we reached a peaceful clearing with views of the East Meadow and the distant peaks beyond. The air was thin and quiet, save for the whisper of the breeze. It felt like stepping into a painting — vibrant, still, and timeless. We lingered there for a while, watching clouds gather and roll over the ridgelines.

As we began the hike back, the blue sky shifted to gray, and within minutes, the familiar afternoon thunderstorm arrived. Raindrops turned to a downpour, temperatures dropped nearly fifteen degrees, and we found ourselves jogging through puddles, laughing as our jackets soaked through. By the time we reached the trailhead, drenched and exhilarated, the storm was already drifting east — another Colorado memory etched into our day.

With the car heater running and throwing our cold and wet clothes in the backseat, we looked back toward the trailhead and the valley beyond. The drive over Trail Ridge Road awaited — but for now, East Inlet had given us one last reminder of why we travel: to feel alive in nature’s rhythm, wherever the trail leads.

If You Go

• Trailhead: East Inlet Trail, just east of downtown Grand Lake, Colorado

• Distance: Approx. 6 miles round trip to East Meadow overlook (moderate)

• Elevation Gain: ~750 feet

• Season: Best June–October