The Pool: Evy’s First Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Last week we made a crazy, last-minute decision to take a trip to Colorado with our toddler and newborn. They did  great on the long drive to Estes Park which makes me optimistic about future trips as a family of 4.

We decided to hike to The Pool which is one of our family’s favorite 2-4 mile hikes. The lower elevation was great for me because I haven’t done a whole lot of exercise since Evy was born in January and also great for my husband who had to carry our growing toddler. We started our hike at Fern Lake trail head in the Moraine Valley.

We walked through a few patches of snow and some areas that were a little wet and muddy from melt, but overall the trail was in good walking condition.

We spotted this waterfall which seemed to be the culprit for some of the sogginess.

1.2 miles into our hike we arrived at the always-impressive Arch Rocks.

Eventually our two-year-old Cecy negotiated with her dad to get out of the carrier. She was carried over jagged rocks that we were afraid she might slip on.

She walked a good distance too! She got tripped up on a rock, but made a quick recovery.

We stopped for a snack which made everyone happy.

1.7 miles into our journey along the Big Thompson River we made it to The Pool.

If you cross over the bridge, the trail will continue on to Fern Falls and Fern Lake.

This was a great first hike for our little Evy. She slept the whole way –  snuggled in warm against her mamma.

We love our girls and can’t wait to take them on more adventures in RMNP!