Toll Memorial

August 14, 2010

Up until this hike we had stayed at lower elevation, but this is the highest trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, elevation a whopping 12,110 feet and the trail ascends 200 more feet.  Also until this point we hadn't seen much wildlife along our hikes. 

The Toll Memorial trail is steep, but only .8 miles roundtrip.  Along the way there are signs pointing out various types of alpine plants so it makes for an interesting trek and some stopping points to catch your breath.

This strange rock formation is called Mushroom Rocks and it's about .25 miles into the Toll Memorial hike.  They are quite interesting to look at.

Obviously the best part of this hike is the view along the way.  Any way you turn there are miles of mountain views.  This trail is very busy though, so parking can be tricky.  It's best to get there as early as possible.

Trail Ridge Road is only open from Memorial Day until mid October, so if this on your list to see I would see it as early in the season as possible to catch some snow caps.  Also, it's extremely windy at this elevation so it's a bit chilly.


At this elevation we saw Yellow Bellied Marmots and a herd of Elk, which can normally be seen near the Alpine Visitor's Center.  If you are up that high be sure to stop at the visitor's center and try some of their hot chocolate.  It's some of the best I've had!  Of course the visitor's center is seasonal also, so it's only open when Trail Ridge Road is open.