Flattop Mountain Trail
Flattop Mountain Trail
4.5
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4.5
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Jonathan G
Minneapolis, MN8 contributions
Sep 2015 • Couples
This was a fantastic hike to be a centerpiece of our short time in Rocky Mountain Nat'l Park. We visited 4 years ago with our extended family and kids, and did other hikes and drives, but only made it a little way up then (June 2011), due to lots of snow and limited time. This time, we were determined to conquer it!
We had only been in Colorado for a day (coming from Minnesota), so the elevation was a factor - we were getting winded at Bear Lake where the trail begins! Taking it slow (1-1.5 mph), with lots of breaks and water, made it very doable. The trail begins in mixed forest with lots of beautiful aspen, then goes through varying bands of spruce, pine, and other evergreens, before the trees eventually get short, stubby, and then disappear altogether. Once you are above the timberline (about 11,000 ft), the views are amazing in every direction! The wind came mainly from behind the mountain (West), which gave us a headwind in addition to the 3000-foot climb and elevation challenges, and increased in intensity as we got higher. It was about 50mph at the top, and we had to watch the clouds carefully to avoid the common afternoon thunderstorm.
We made sure to get to the Bear Lake parking lot before 8, since it fills up fairly quickly (we were there Labor Day weekend). We started the hike around 8am, reached the summit between 11:30 and noon, and got back down about 2pm. We hike avidly in Minnesota, but went slower because of the altitude. Coloradoans could probably do it more comfortably in a little shorter time. We were advised to get off the summit by early afternoon if we wanted to minimize the chances of lightning, so the early start was good for many reasons.
The trail is very rocky in many areas, so wear good boots. You'll definitely appreciate having a stick, especially on the way down. We made sure to bring plenty of food (carbs and protein) suitable for the short breaks, and we wished we had brought more water. We brought about 2 quarts for the two of us, but probably could have used 2 qts each. A Camelbak and a backup bottle per person would probably be enough. There were no streams for water along the way, so better to have more than you need, as water and a slower pace are the only things that help with the altitude. The weather was sunny and about 60 at the base, and windy and cold (wind chill probably in the mid-30s) at the top. Circulation can be an issue with altitude, also, so bring a windbreaker, skullcap, and light gloves. We did it in shorts and caps (tough Minnesotans, I know), but wished we had these along.
All in all, as other reviews have said, this mountain is great for feeling like you've conquered a "real" mountain, and it's enough of a challenge that you feel accomplished - plenty of people (including us the first time) have attempted and had to turn back for any number of reasons. The views are absolutely worth the effort, and it's not so taxing that it will ruin the rest of your stay. There were hikers in their 60s and 70s passing us (we are in our 30s), so you too can do it!
Bottom line: If you prepare well and pay attention to the important things, this mountain is perfect for regular hikers that want a challenge that doesn't involve life-threatening mountaineering!
We had only been in Colorado for a day (coming from Minnesota), so the elevation was a factor - we were getting winded at Bear Lake where the trail begins! Taking it slow (1-1.5 mph), with lots of breaks and water, made it very doable. The trail begins in mixed forest with lots of beautiful aspen, then goes through varying bands of spruce, pine, and other evergreens, before the trees eventually get short, stubby, and then disappear altogether. Once you are above the timberline (about 11,000 ft), the views are amazing in every direction! The wind came mainly from behind the mountain (West), which gave us a headwind in addition to the 3000-foot climb and elevation challenges, and increased in intensity as we got higher. It was about 50mph at the top, and we had to watch the clouds carefully to avoid the common afternoon thunderstorm.
We made sure to get to the Bear Lake parking lot before 8, since it fills up fairly quickly (we were there Labor Day weekend). We started the hike around 8am, reached the summit between 11:30 and noon, and got back down about 2pm. We hike avidly in Minnesota, but went slower because of the altitude. Coloradoans could probably do it more comfortably in a little shorter time. We were advised to get off the summit by early afternoon if we wanted to minimize the chances of lightning, so the early start was good for many reasons.
The trail is very rocky in many areas, so wear good boots. You'll definitely appreciate having a stick, especially on the way down. We made sure to bring plenty of food (carbs and protein) suitable for the short breaks, and we wished we had brought more water. We brought about 2 quarts for the two of us, but probably could have used 2 qts each. A Camelbak and a backup bottle per person would probably be enough. There were no streams for water along the way, so better to have more than you need, as water and a slower pace are the only things that help with the altitude. The weather was sunny and about 60 at the base, and windy and cold (wind chill probably in the mid-30s) at the top. Circulation can be an issue with altitude, also, so bring a windbreaker, skullcap, and light gloves. We did it in shorts and caps (tough Minnesotans, I know), but wished we had these along.
All in all, as other reviews have said, this mountain is great for feeling like you've conquered a "real" mountain, and it's enough of a challenge that you feel accomplished - plenty of people (including us the first time) have attempted and had to turn back for any number of reasons. The views are absolutely worth the effort, and it's not so taxing that it will ruin the rest of your stay. There were hikers in their 60s and 70s passing us (we are in our 30s), so you too can do it!
Bottom line: If you prepare well and pay attention to the important things, this mountain is perfect for regular hikers that want a challenge that doesn't involve life-threatening mountaineering!
Written September 8, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AtlantaRes
Atlanta, Georgia170 contributions
Jul 2013 • Couples
This hike starts at the Bear Lake parking lot, and gains a little less than 3,000 ft from start to finish at the Flattop Mountain Trail - Tonahutu Trail junction. There is no official summit, this is Flattop Mountain after all, so the junction is considered the end of the hike.
This hike starts in the forest, climbs through krummholz (gnarly, twisted trees), to tundra above the tree line. There are great views to be had in all directions. The grade is steadily uphill and this hike is best done early in the morning. More about getting an early start later int his review. The trail is well defined and not difficult to follow.
Hallett Peak is a prominent feature rising above Flattop Mtn. There is not an official National Park Service trail up Hallett Peak, but there is a well used and marked (with cairns) path that covers the 0.7 miles and roughly 400 ft of elevation gain. Summiting Hallett Peak requires some scrambling, but nothing too difficult. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the climb went, just when I was thinking that I was maybe half-way there I found myself on the summit.
The views from Hallett Peak are spectacular, and the resident pika population will be certain to check you out.
Hikes over to Otis and Taylor peaks provide additional Flattop Mtn add-ons.
Weather is an important factor in the Rocky Mountains, and afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence in the summer months. The ideal time to start this hike is before 7 a.m., and earlier is even better. It is dangerous, as in life threatening, to be caught out in the open on a mountain during a thunderstorm!
We started our descent from Hallett Peak shortly before 10 a.m., and by 11 a.m. the clouds were building over Flattop Mtn. As we descended the trail we encountered numerous groups of uphill hikers who were unprepared for weather, and who appeared to be unaware that they were likely to find themselves out in the open during a storm that afternoon. Thunder. lightning, hail and rain all arrived between 1 pm and 2 pm!
Getting an early start has many benefits. You do all of the hard work in the cool morning mountain air, you get to experience sunrise over the mountains, and you minimize the risk of suffering the effects of an afternoon thunderstorm.
This hike starts in the forest, climbs through krummholz (gnarly, twisted trees), to tundra above the tree line. There are great views to be had in all directions. The grade is steadily uphill and this hike is best done early in the morning. More about getting an early start later int his review. The trail is well defined and not difficult to follow.
Hallett Peak is a prominent feature rising above Flattop Mtn. There is not an official National Park Service trail up Hallett Peak, but there is a well used and marked (with cairns) path that covers the 0.7 miles and roughly 400 ft of elevation gain. Summiting Hallett Peak requires some scrambling, but nothing too difficult. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the climb went, just when I was thinking that I was maybe half-way there I found myself on the summit.
The views from Hallett Peak are spectacular, and the resident pika population will be certain to check you out.
Hikes over to Otis and Taylor peaks provide additional Flattop Mtn add-ons.
Weather is an important factor in the Rocky Mountains, and afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence in the summer months. The ideal time to start this hike is before 7 a.m., and earlier is even better. It is dangerous, as in life threatening, to be caught out in the open on a mountain during a thunderstorm!
We started our descent from Hallett Peak shortly before 10 a.m., and by 11 a.m. the clouds were building over Flattop Mtn. As we descended the trail we encountered numerous groups of uphill hikers who were unprepared for weather, and who appeared to be unaware that they were likely to find themselves out in the open during a storm that afternoon. Thunder. lightning, hail and rain all arrived between 1 pm and 2 pm!
Getting an early start has many benefits. You do all of the hard work in the cool morning mountain air, you get to experience sunrise over the mountains, and you minimize the risk of suffering the effects of an afternoon thunderstorm.
Written July 27, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ddubdub11
Austin, TX135 contributions
Aug 2014 • Family
I grew up in Colorado, my daughter she grew up so far in Texas. I go back to Colorado as much as possible for friends and family and my brother and I do hikes up the 14Kers. I say this to premise what was accomplished and the experience I had to do it. I decided to take my daughter on her first backpacking adventure. I have taken her on many hikes before, we did 62 miles in Glacier, we Hiked Banff, we hiked Yellow Stone and the Tetons, but all of those were day hikes carrying day packs. We started on the inlet trail in grand lake, hiked up 8-9 miles to inlet falls. camped then went over the mountain, my daughter who likes to photograph flowers lagged us back. We started at 7 to beat the Colorado afternoon showers but because my daughter slowed us a bit we hit the summit of this peak and headed down the tonahutu trail a bit behind schedule and got caught in the storm. Lucky there was not lightning and I had us geared correctly . we had our rain gear, gaiters, and gloves and made it though just fine. The wind was up around 50-70 mph gust and even lifted me off the ground. There was hail, ice and sleet and the temp dropped to about 30 or so it felt. we immediately went for the valley but it took us about 45 min + to get out of the storm. IF you are headed up this way there are miles between treeline and the summit , if there was lightning present we would have turned around. we camped at lower granite falls and hiked out though big meadows trails back to the inlet trailhead.
wildlife - we saw herd of 50-100 elk , a huge stag on top of the mountain, a bobcat and a bull moose.
pack weights -
Mine with bear canister and water bladder filled(we filter ours) - 29lbs
Daughter's - 17lbs
Notes - gaiters are a must! it gets muddy bring gloves and rain gear (it will rain) Don't wear new shoes on a hiking trip break them in before using them, or at least bring some mole skin. and don't pack over 30-35lbs fully loaded or you are going to hate life going up hill.
This is a hard hike for people who don't do this and ours took 3 days but total mileage was about 30. feel free to email or write me if you want pointers I am happy to help.
Oh and my daughter loved it, were going back next summer and knocking off longs peak.
wildlife - we saw herd of 50-100 elk , a huge stag on top of the mountain, a bobcat and a bull moose.
pack weights -
Mine with bear canister and water bladder filled(we filter ours) - 29lbs
Daughter's - 17lbs
Notes - gaiters are a must! it gets muddy bring gloves and rain gear (it will rain) Don't wear new shoes on a hiking trip break them in before using them, or at least bring some mole skin. and don't pack over 30-35lbs fully loaded or you are going to hate life going up hill.
This is a hard hike for people who don't do this and ours took 3 days but total mileage was about 30. feel free to email or write me if you want pointers I am happy to help.
Oh and my daughter loved it, were going back next summer and knocking off longs peak.
Written August 14, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shawn M
Linn Creek, MO16 contributions
Jul 2014 • Family
If you want to hike a mountain, this is the one to do. If Longs Peak is not an option (which it isn't for most people), do Flat Top Mountain but continue up to Hallett Peak. It's another 45 minutes up to the peak but well worth it. It took 3.5 hours up and 2.5 down. We were moving most of the time but did take short breaks to ensure we did not over do it. On a clear day, you can see Grand Lake, Wyoming and the Never Summer Range. I really enjoy the waterfalls, but this surpassed every waterfall I found by quite a bit. It is a must for anyone in decent shape.
Written July 21, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lightfader
Flower Mound, TX322 contributions
Jul 2014 • Family
Flat Top is a long but steady hike . You rise over 3000 feet and walk over 4 miles. There was snow to clamber over at the top but good walking shows made it easier.
Took the older members of our party about 5 hours to reach the top while the immortal young ones ( 20 and 18) managed it in just over 3 ! There are many places to stop. The overlook of Emerald lake is a cool place to have breakfast .
The views from the top are spectacular - being able to see both sides of the continental divide. Great place for the panorama shot.
We started out early ( around 6) which meant we could also take in Hallet and Otis peaks on the same hike. It also meant we were on our way down when the daily weather began to gather. The conditions up there can change fast so its worth keeping an eye on the clouds . Also suggest you carry a poncho in case you get caught in the rain.
Parking at Bear Lake is not a problem if you are up bright and early . Being early also means you are well up the trail before the casual hikers crowd the lower parts.
Take plenty of water. Have something warm/dry just in case
And don't forget when you safely return to Estes Park you can admire your handiwork every time you stare up at the Continental Divide .
Took the older members of our party about 5 hours to reach the top while the immortal young ones ( 20 and 18) managed it in just over 3 ! There are many places to stop. The overlook of Emerald lake is a cool place to have breakfast .
The views from the top are spectacular - being able to see both sides of the continental divide. Great place for the panorama shot.
We started out early ( around 6) which meant we could also take in Hallet and Otis peaks on the same hike. It also meant we were on our way down when the daily weather began to gather. The conditions up there can change fast so its worth keeping an eye on the clouds . Also suggest you carry a poncho in case you get caught in the rain.
Parking at Bear Lake is not a problem if you are up bright and early . Being early also means you are well up the trail before the casual hikers crowd the lower parts.
Take plenty of water. Have something warm/dry just in case
And don't forget when you safely return to Estes Park you can admire your handiwork every time you stare up at the Continental Divide .
Written July 14, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LostInColorado
Denver, Colorado300 contributions
Aug 2013 • Solo
This beautiful trail climbs nearly 3,000 feet to over 12,300 feet over the course of 4.4 miles. The scenery changes throughout the hike - with just enough views while you're in the trees to keep things interesting, with views of Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Across the valley you'll also have a nice view of Mill Lake at the beginning of Glacier Gorge (the valley topped by Long's Peak).
Start early! For a few reasons - 1) You'll get to see Bear Lake (and the magnificent reflections) when the water is like a mirror (the wind is typically minimal early morning), 2) You'll have plenty of time to summit before the weather moves in (e.g. thunderstorms or clouds enveloping the mountain), 3) There will be fewer people, so you can focus on the wilderness.
And you will want to head back before noon (possibly 1 pm) - the second half of the climb is above tree line . . . and keeps going . . . and going . . . and going - pretty easy to get caught in afternoon storms. Soon after leaving the trees, look to your left and you'll see why these are called the Rocky Mountains - as large rocks have "calved" from the mountain above. About a quarter mile later you'll pass through an area populated by pikas - small rodents that sit on rocks and "squeak" a warning that danger (i.e. you) is in the area. Also keep an eye out for marmots (larger rodents - averaging 18"). These rodents are cute on the mountain . . . not sure how I would react if I saw one in my house or at a restaurant.
Eventually you "turn the corner" and can see Flat Top mountain. It looks so close! But you climb and climb and it really doesn't seem to get any closer . . . until you're pretty much right there.
Once at the top (especially if you're not continuing on to Hallet Peak) wander to the south - you will have a view down the valley and might even be able to see your car. Looking to the west you can see Grand Lake.
There is no water available on the trail, and no bathrooms (other than at the trailhead). It is relatively steep and ends at high elevation - plan accordingly. The trail is rocky and uneven (not a smooth dirt path). I wish I had worn my full hiking boots (that wrap my ankles), but I was glad I had hiking poles to ease the descent.
Start early! For a few reasons - 1) You'll get to see Bear Lake (and the magnificent reflections) when the water is like a mirror (the wind is typically minimal early morning), 2) You'll have plenty of time to summit before the weather moves in (e.g. thunderstorms or clouds enveloping the mountain), 3) There will be fewer people, so you can focus on the wilderness.
And you will want to head back before noon (possibly 1 pm) - the second half of the climb is above tree line . . . and keeps going . . . and going . . . and going - pretty easy to get caught in afternoon storms. Soon after leaving the trees, look to your left and you'll see why these are called the Rocky Mountains - as large rocks have "calved" from the mountain above. About a quarter mile later you'll pass through an area populated by pikas - small rodents that sit on rocks and "squeak" a warning that danger (i.e. you) is in the area. Also keep an eye out for marmots (larger rodents - averaging 18"). These rodents are cute on the mountain . . . not sure how I would react if I saw one in my house or at a restaurant.
Eventually you "turn the corner" and can see Flat Top mountain. It looks so close! But you climb and climb and it really doesn't seem to get any closer . . . until you're pretty much right there.
Once at the top (especially if you're not continuing on to Hallet Peak) wander to the south - you will have a view down the valley and might even be able to see your car. Looking to the west you can see Grand Lake.
There is no water available on the trail, and no bathrooms (other than at the trailhead). It is relatively steep and ends at high elevation - plan accordingly. The trail is rocky and uneven (not a smooth dirt path). I wish I had worn my full hiking boots (that wrap my ankles), but I was glad I had hiking poles to ease the descent.
Written August 29, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim S
Houston, TX5 contributions
Jul 2013 • Family
Challenging hike, but definitely worth it. Views from the summit and top of the continental divide are spectacular. Fortunately, the morning was clear before the afternoon storms rolled in. You can see all the way to Grand Lake which is on the far west side of RMNP. Definitely recommend you leave early to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms as the round trip time is 6-7 hours. We also summited nearby Hallet's Peak which was equally impressive. Hallet's Peak is 300 feet higher than Flattop Mountain, but don't underestimate the small difference. The extra 300 feet was very challenging, but well worth it. It was basically a boulder scramble up a steep slope that left you breathless. It was windy on the summit, but the views were awesome. We are from Houston so I was concerned about the high altitude, but we did fine as this was our 3rd day in the park. Definitely recommend you acclimate 1-2 days before attempting this hike.
Written August 25, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jenhaddock
Lubbock, TX72 contributions
Jul 2016 • Friends
We hiked up Flattop Mountain to get to Hallett Peak. The elevation and steepness of the trail did cause me stop to take a few breaks along the way (although my hiking partner from Houston was fine). But I never felt like the hike wasn't something I couldn't complete.
About half the trail is above the tree line and we were hit with strong winds as soon as we reached that point. We were glad we wore pants and took jackets. I wore a hat but ended up taking it off when we were fully exposed on top of the mountain due to the wind. I could have used an ear warmer at the very top but was ok without it.
The views above the tree line are amazing though and worth the whole hike. We started around 7 am and saw one marmot on the way up but about a dozen on the way down. We saw two pika on the way down too. Towards the top we saw snow fields which was amazing to see in July to two Texas girls. Definitely take time at the top to soak in the views.
While rated moderate, the trail is well maintained. I had hiking boots but my hiking partner wore tennis shoes and had no problems.
Starting in the morning, it was still cool on top of the mountain for us, especially when we had the headwind. As far as food and nutrition, I used a camelbak with 2L capacity, 3 extra 16 oz bottles, a packet of Skratch Labs for one of the bottles, 2 Bonk Breaker bars and some beef jerky.
It started raining on us right as we reached the parking lot at about 1:30. There were definitely more people on the way up than down when we finished. I highly recommend starting early to avoid the crowds and the afternoon showers. We also saw a lot of people who only had a plastic water bottle for hydration who were struggling above the tree line. The sun is strong and if you don't start early you will feel it quick.
The Bear Lake/Nymph Lake/Dream Lake/Emerald Lake hike is the best way to see quintessential Rocky Mountains but if you have a few days or like to go off the beaten path I would definitely recommend this hike.
About half the trail is above the tree line and we were hit with strong winds as soon as we reached that point. We were glad we wore pants and took jackets. I wore a hat but ended up taking it off when we were fully exposed on top of the mountain due to the wind. I could have used an ear warmer at the very top but was ok without it.
The views above the tree line are amazing though and worth the whole hike. We started around 7 am and saw one marmot on the way up but about a dozen on the way down. We saw two pika on the way down too. Towards the top we saw snow fields which was amazing to see in July to two Texas girls. Definitely take time at the top to soak in the views.
While rated moderate, the trail is well maintained. I had hiking boots but my hiking partner wore tennis shoes and had no problems.
Starting in the morning, it was still cool on top of the mountain for us, especially when we had the headwind. As far as food and nutrition, I used a camelbak with 2L capacity, 3 extra 16 oz bottles, a packet of Skratch Labs for one of the bottles, 2 Bonk Breaker bars and some beef jerky.
It started raining on us right as we reached the parking lot at about 1:30. There were definitely more people on the way up than down when we finished. I highly recommend starting early to avoid the crowds and the afternoon showers. We also saw a lot of people who only had a plastic water bottle for hydration who were struggling above the tree line. The sun is strong and if you don't start early you will feel it quick.
The Bear Lake/Nymph Lake/Dream Lake/Emerald Lake hike is the best way to see quintessential Rocky Mountains but if you have a few days or like to go off the beaten path I would definitely recommend this hike.
Written August 18, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dtblanco
Houston, TX36 contributions
Aug 2015
This is an excellent hike! I loved it! A lot of people labeled this as strenuous and I was even thinking to NOT do it the day before but I'm glad I did. It was not strenuous @ all. I would say moderate, maybe, but this was excellent. I do not think that the elevation up was bad. It was just gradual ascent not like drastic. Yes youre going up and could breath heavily bc of the ascent but take a small break! Also yes, it can be difficult in the cold and snowy months but definitely not in August. The hike among the trees we're excellent but after the treeline.. OMG.. the view from all around you. It was so breath taking. I did this hike alone but not bad because there are several hikers behind or in front of you... good distance away from you if you want to be away from ppl or crowd! I recommend this hike. I will definitely do it again!
Written August 18, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pvtmulholland
Houston, TX107 contributions
Jul 2013 • Friends
I did both hikes and I wanted to leave a review to help people chose between the two similar trails. Overall, I think Twin Sisters is a little easier, has much better views, and is more enjoyable even though Flat Top does go a little higher.
View - Flat Top has land around it that is much higher, so you don't have the same panorama that you get with Twin Sisters. I think that the view up Flat Top is better, but the best picture is taken at the top of Twin Sisters.
Accessibility - Twin Sisters isn't in the park (no fee), and you don't need to go through Estes to get there. Further, Flat Top starts at Bear Lake, where you may have to take the shuttle.
Difficulty - Flat Top is .7 miles longer and goes 900 feet higher, and has 500 more feet of gain. Where Twin Sisters should take less than 4, Flat Top will take around 6.
Crowds - Twin Sisters had more people, but it never was a problem. At the top, it was nice to have someone to take a group pic.
View - Flat Top has land around it that is much higher, so you don't have the same panorama that you get with Twin Sisters. I think that the view up Flat Top is better, but the best picture is taken at the top of Twin Sisters.
Accessibility - Twin Sisters isn't in the park (no fee), and you don't need to go through Estes to get there. Further, Flat Top starts at Bear Lake, where you may have to take the shuttle.
Difficulty - Flat Top is .7 miles longer and goes 900 feet higher, and has 500 more feet of gain. Where Twin Sisters should take less than 4, Flat Top will take around 6.
Crowds - Twin Sisters had more people, but it never was a problem. At the top, it was nice to have someone to take a group pic.
Written July 26, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Snow areas of trail will usually be flattened down by snowshoers or other hikers. Yak Tracks on shoes and hiking poles will help. Snow shoes also an option.
Written July 6, 2018
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