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With towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 415 square miles of rugged wilderness in northern Colorado, the park offers stunning hiking trails, breathtaking scenic drives, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely scenic drive, a challenging mountain hike, or a peaceful picnic spot by an alpine lake, this guide will help you make the most of your Rocky Mountain adventure.

Getting to Rocky Mountain National Park

Location & Entrance Information

Rocky Mountain National Park is located in northern Colorado, about:

  • 1.5 hours from Denver
  • 1 hour from Boulder
  • 2 hours from Colorado Springs

The park has five entrances, with the most popular being:

Entry Fees & Permits

  • $30 per vehicle (1-day pass)
  • $35 per vehicle (7-day pass)
  • $70 annual RMNP pass
  • America the Beautiful Pass ($80 for access to all U.S. National Parks)

Timed Entry Permits Required: From May through October, visitors need a timed-entry permit to access popular areas. Reserve yours in advance: https://www.recreation.gov/

Top Scenic Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching 12,183 feet. This 48-mile scenic highway connects Estes Park and Grand Lake, offering stunning mountain views and plenty of stops for photos.

Must-See Stops Along Trail Ridge Road:

  • Many Parks Curve Overlook – Sweeping panoramic views.
  • Rainbow Curve Overlook – Overlooks the valley below.
  • Alpine Visitor Center – The highest visitor center in the U.S. at 11,796 feet.
  • Forest Canyon Overlook – One of the best spots for sunset photography.

Note: Trail Ridge Road closes in winter due to snow. Check road conditions here: https://www.cotrip.org/map.htm

2. Old Fall River Road

For a narrow, winding dirt road adventure, take Old Fall River Road. This historic one-way road climbs to the Alpine Visitor Center, passing waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Open: July – September (weather permitting)

Best Hiking Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, RMNP has trails for every level.

1. Bear Lake Loop (Easy – 0.8 miles round trip)

Bear Lake Trail is one of the most photographed spots in the park. The flat, accessible trail circles a stunning alpine lake, offering breathtaking mountain reflections.

2. Emerald Lake Trail (Moderate – 3.2 miles round trip)

Start at Bear Lake Trailhead and hike past Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake—each one more stunning than the last. This is one of RMNP’s most iconic hikes.

Friends exploring Colorado mountains on summer vacation hiking trip. Girls hiking on Emerald Lake Trail next to Dream Lake. Estes Park, Rocky Mountains National Park,Colorado,USA.

3. Sky Pond Trail (Challenging – 9 miles round trip)

For those looking for a challenge, this trail takes you past Alberta Falls, The Loch, and Timberline Falls, leading to Sky Pond, a high-alpine lake with spectacular views.

More hiking info: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/hiking.htm

Wildlife Watching in RMNP

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including:

  • Elk – Best seen in the fall during the rutting season.
  • Moose – Often spotted near Grand Lake.
  • Bighorn Sheep – Look for them along rocky cliffs.
  • Black Bears – Less common, but possible in wooded areas.

Best Spots for Wildlife Viewing:

  • Horseshoe Park – Great for elk watching in fall.
  • Kawuneeche Valley – Best place to see moose.
  • Sheep Lakes – Good chance of spotting bighorn sheep.

Safety Tip: Never feed or approach wildlife. Keep at least 75 feet from elk and 120 feet from bears.

Learn more about wildlife safety here: https://cpw.state.co.us/

North American Elks on the Rocky Mountain Meadow in Colorado, United States. Resting Elks

Where to Stay Near RMNP

Camping in the Park

  • Moraine Park Campground – Open year-round.
  • Glacier Basin Campground – Best for families.
  • Timber Creek Campground – Best for west-side access.

Reservations required: https://www.recreation.gov/

Hotels & Lodging

Tips for Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Arrive Early your scheduled time – Parking lots fill up fast, especially at Bear Lake and Alpine Visitor Center.
  • Dress in Layers – Weather changes quickly at high altitudes. Bring a jacket, even in summer.
  • Stay Hydrated – The high elevation can cause dehydration and altitude sickness.
  • Check for Trail Closures – Snow and maintenance can impact access: https://trails.colorado.gov/
  • Follow Leave No Trace Principles – Respect nature and pack out what you pack in: https://lnt.org/

Plan Your Rocky Mountain Adventure

From stunning alpine lakes to scenic drives with breathtaking views, RMNP truly is a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or just soaking in the scenery, this park offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park!

A group of female elk grazing along Glacier Creek, with Chiefs Head Peak (13,577 ft) towering in background, on a sunny Spring day. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA.