Once you actually get to where the falls start, it gets steeper. A four year old could scramble op the rocks but it would really be tough for a two year old unless someone is helping them the entire way. It could be done if you are willing to take extra time to get to the top. However, your children would need to be careful and they will be tired by the time they get to the top.

There will still be snow and ice on the trail in late April. If you don't own traction devices for your waterproof boots/shoes, rent microspikes from Estes Park Mountain Shop. The falls should be flowing in late April. In very snowy years (so far snowfall is below average), the falls are sometimes partially obscured by overhanging snow. The trail is pretty year round. In late April, hiking to the falls from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is preferable in my opinion because the trail from the Bear Lake Trailhead is steeper. On some weekends, you may not be able to find parking at Glacier Gorge even in late April. In that case, you will need to make the hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead.

We're 55 yr olds from from the prairies of South Dakota, in good shape. We had no problem hiking to Alberta Falls one day after arrival in RMNP. We continued on to Sky Pond over 11,000 ft, but we exercise every day. Drink plenty of water upon arrival & get in good walking shape. That will help.

Rocky Mountain National Park will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year round. You may visit at any time you like. The Beaver Meadows visitor's center will be open for information, the park movie and the gift store. Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road will be closed to vehicular traffic due to 30 foot snow drifts above timberline. The main attraction on the East side of the park is Glacier Basin and the excellent snow conditions. The most popular area is Bear Lake with its many hiking trails. You can enjoy the snow with snow shoes, cross country and back country skis. Depending on trail conditions you may also be able to walk on the packed snow with just your footwear. Traction devices (Yaktrax) may help. The other popular area right next to Bear Lake is Glacier Gorge which also has wonderful places for snow shoes and skis. The trails are longer and the scenery even better. Winter equipment can be rented in Estes Park. People even ice skate in the park, but it is very, very primitive and nothing at all like a regular ice rink. This is lake skating. If there is adequate snow fall then the sledding area at Hidden Valley will be open. There is a fun little hill and a warming house. If you are coming from sea level you will want to make sure you are in good physical condition. That will help you as you adjust to the higher altitude, 8,000 to 11,000 feet elevation. Since you will be here in winter, bring warm winter clothing or plan on purchasing the clothing when you get here. The temperatures will typically range in the mid teens to mid 20's measured in Fahrenheit (not Celsius). It is not uncommon for the temperature to drop to minus 10 or minus 15 degrees at night or in the early morning. Daytime temperatures can get as warm a the high 30's to mid 40's F. Expect snow, overcast, sunshine, calm air and wind, sometimes all in the same day! If you are dressed properly you will be comfortable and it can be a lot of fun. The hiking in the snow is beautiful and you will get to see the park as few visitors do. When you arrive at Rocky Mountain National Park, check with the park for ranger led snow shoe walks, as well as trail conditions. These walks will teach you how to snow shoe and provide lots of information about the park itself and the winter environment. When you get to Estes Park, there are many outdoors shops that can help you with your equipment needs. The park rangers and volunteers can help you plan on different activities that are fun and within your capabilities. If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask me and I will get you the answers. Cheers, Rich

For a short waterfall hike in RMNP, Alberta Falls is probably your best option overall when you consider distance and beauty. Round trip for this hike from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is 1.7 miles and elevation gain is about 200 feet. The trail is rated as easy. The hike is not a steady climb. At the beginning of the hike you start downhill before climbing uphill. In early and even at times into mid-June, there can be some lingering snowdrifts on the trail to stomp through. For shorter hikes to waterfalls, consider Copeland Falls from the Wild Basin Trailhead or Adams Falls from the East Inlet Trailhead. Copeland Falls is an almost level .3 miles from the trailhead but this cascading falls is not as impressive as Alberta Falls. Parking at the trailhead is limited. Adams Falls is on the west side (Grand Lake side) of RMNP. Include this hike on the day you drive and explore Trail Ridge Road. From the trailhead, Adams Falls in only about .3 miles but you do have some fairly steep stone steps to climb. In June, Adams Falls is usually thundering. With any of these hikes, allow time to acclimate to the altitude and take it slow. Hiking poles (use two) provide greater stability and reduce strain on your knees, ankles, hips and back. You can rent hiking poles in Estes Park from Estes Park Mountain Shop or Warming House. Wear shoes with good tread. Actual "tennis" shoes don't usually have good tread. Walking, trekking or hiking shoes are a better option.