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Updated October 2023
Want to enjoy an epic getaway visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado? Have you ever thought about trading your desk chair for a sun-warmed boulder and your screen time for some serious alpine daydreaming? We did, and we’re happy to report that the mountains are even better than your favorite motivational poster. We found majestic mountain vistas that make you gasp, wildflower meadows that look like they’ve been sprinkled with fairy dust, and windswept alpine tundra that will have you feeling like a hobbit on a very important quest (just watch out for the lack of oxygen!). Whether you have one day or one week, here are a few whimsical ideas to help you appreciate the inherent, and utterly breathtaking, beauty of the Rockies.
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Your Pre-Adventure Pep Talk
Now, before you get lost in visions of alpine glory, a quick reality check from the school of hard knocks: a little preparation is what separates an epic RMNP trip from a “well, that was stressful” story. Your mission, should you choose to accept it: Book your lodging ASAP. Campsites and cozy cabins vanish quicker than a bag of trail mix on a long hike. Then, make a loose itinerary. Scribble down your dream hikes and scenic drives. This isn’t about being bossy; it’s about making sure you actually see the good stuff and spend more time with the mountains and less time with your nose in a map.
When to Visit: Picking Your Perfect Season
Let’s break down the park’s social schedule. Summer is the busy, brilliant extrovert—everyone wants to be there, so you’ll need to plan ahead. Our secret? Visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when the crowds thin out and the scenery is still showing off. Then there’s winter, the park’s hermit mode. It’s breathtakingly beautiful but notoriously exclusive; snow closes down many roads, so you’ll only get access to the lower-elevation attractions.
Planning Your Route to the Rockies
The closest major airport to Rocky Mountain National Park is Denver International Airport, which is about 75 miles from the park. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park.
Arriving By Car:
- From Denver (East): Denver is the nearest major city to RMNP. Take I-25 North to I-70 West, then take US-40 West and US-34 West to the park’s eastern entrance in Estes Park.
- From Boulder (North): Take US-36 North to Lyons, then continue on US-36 to Estes Park.
- From Fort Collins (Northwest): Take US-34 East directly into RMNP.
- From Colorado Springs (South): Take I-25 North to US-24 West, then connect to US-40 and US-34 West to Estes Park
What to Know Before You Go: Your Ultimate Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park
- Entrance Fee: $30/vehicle for 1-day pass, $35/vehicle for 7-day pass; or use an America the Beautiful Pass. Rocky Mountain National Park has moved to cashless payments at entrances and campgrounds for all fees and payments. Use the free shuttle system (available late spring through early fall) to reach trailheads stress-free.
- Timed Entry Permits (May–October): Required daily between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. for popular areas like Bear Lake Corridor. Get yours in advance at Recreation.gov.
- Best Times to Visit: Summer (June–August): Most popular; wildflowers, open trails, and accessible alpine roads. Fall (late Sept–Oct): Stunning aspen colors and peak elk rutting season. Winter: Great for snowshoeing and solitude; some road closures apply. Morning or late afternoon: Best for wildlife viewing and fewer crowds.
- Altitude Awareness: The park ranges from 7,500 ft to over 12,000 ft—take it slow, especially on your first day. Drink water, avoid alcohol, and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, dizziness, nausea)
- Be prepared with a good jacket, a hat, and long pants. Invest in a pair of good walking or hiking shoes. Remember to pack some snacks and have water before going up any trail. All the visitor centers in the park have water stations for refillable water bottles. Rocky Mountain National Park is HUGE, so get a map at any of the visitor centers or click here before you start your getaway.
Do I Need Timed Entry Permit Reservations?
Timed Entry Permit Reservations to enter the park will be available through www.recreation.gov beginning at 8 a.m. MDT on Monday, May 1.
- This round of reservations will be available to enter the park from May 26 through June 30.
- The next release will occur on June 1, for the month of July, and any remaining days that are unbooked for June.
- On July 1, reservations will be available for the month of August and any remaining days that are unbooked for July.
- On August 1, reservations will be available for the month of September and any remaining days in August that are unbooked.
- On September 1, reservations will be available for October and any remaining days in September that are unbooked.
- For additional information, refer to the NPS website.
Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect the park’s natural beauty.
Rocky Mountain Retreat: Your Ultimate Guide to Epic Adventures
No first visit is complete without a drive along the dizzying heights of Trail Ridge Road, a stroll around the postcard-perfect Bear Lake, and braving the winds at the Alpine Visitor Center (the highest in the National Park System!). These spots are famous for a reason, but they’re also popular—so plan accordingly.
This is where your adventure checklist comes to life. Forget just sightseeing; Rocky Mountain National Park demands to be experienced. Push your limits by scrambling up a rock face, find your center with a quiet afternoon of fishing, or explore a hidden trail on horseback. No equipment? No problem. Numerous outfitters are ready to equip you for any adventure, making certain your time is both safe and unforgettable. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, here’s our curated list of must-do experiences.
Must-do #1: Start Your Adventure at the Front Door: The Visitor Center
Call it a tradition, a ritual, or just good sense—our first stop at any national park is always the visitor center, and Rocky Mountain’s Beaver Meadows (just inside the entrance from Estes Park on U.S. 36) is the perfect launchpad. Consider the park rangers your personal adventure concierges; they’re brimming with the latest intel on trail conditions, weather reports, and shuttle schedules, and they can even hook you up with a backcountry permit.
A quick pro-tip from our “lessons learned” department: the main lot here fills up almost as fast as the famous Bear Lake one. We were greeted by a flashing sign announcing the Bear Lake lot was full, so we quickly changed our plans. We stopped at the Moraine Park Discovery Center first on our way to Sprague Lake, and it was a much smoother start to the day. So, do yourself a favor: arrive early, grab a map, and maybe even catch the inspiring 23-minute film, “Spirit of the Mountains.,” to set the mood for your epic trip.
Your Ticket to Traffic-Free Trails: The Free Park Shuttle
If we are to talk about the park’s least known but most valuable resource for a day without stress—definitely, it would be the free shuttle system. Just imagine this: It’s not the usual bus—it’s your magic carpet ride by the horror of parking lots overflowing with cars. The buses therefore link the town of Estes Park with all the major visitor centers and, what is most essential, they let you down right at the trailheads for interesting areas like Bear Lake through convenient park-and-ride stations.
Let’s talk about the park’s best-kept secret for a stress-free day: the free shuttle system. This isn’t your average bus—it’s your magic carpet ride past the nightmare of full parking lots. The shuttles seamlessly connect the town of Estes Park with all the major visitor centers and, most importantly, drop you off right at the trailheads for popular spots like Bear Lake via handy park-and-ride stations.
Must-do #2: Unlocking the Wonders of Nature at Moraine Park Discovery Center
Not to be missed! We stopped by the center on our way to the Bear Lake area of the park. You will find the Moraine Park Discovery Center in Moraine Park. They constructed the building in 1923, when this location included 3 hotels plus a 9-hole golf course. This is the only remnant from that time. The location provides maybe the best view of the mountains and valleys in this part of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Moraine Park Discovery Center provides educational exhibits and information about the park’s natural and cultural history, as well as its wildlife and plants. Visitors can also attend ranger-led programs and talks, watch wildlife from the viewing area, and learn about the park’s ongoing research and conservation efforts. The center is a significant starting point for those interested in exploring the park and gaining a deeper understanding of its unique ecosystems and habitats.
The Center has a bookstore/gift shop, a gallery displaying donated artwork from the artists in residence program, and a wonderful museum and learning center. Staffed by knowledgeable, enthusiastic rangers, interns, and volunteers at the visitor center, who are eager to help you have a wonderful experience.
Must-Do #3: Find Your Postcard Moment at Sprague Lake
Looking for the perfect, easygoing Rocky Mountain experience? Sprague Lake is the perfect place for you if you’re looking for a leisurely walk, some fishing, or just a stunning view to relax and unwind. This location has it all. We enjoyed a nice, peaceful walk on the flat 0.8-mile path that loops around the lake. The trail is paved and includes wooden boardwalks, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
A helpful tip from our hike: start at the shuttle stop and head left. The first stretch is pleasant but surrounded by trees—so hang in there! The best views are just ahead. After walking about a quarter of the way, the trees opened up to reveal breathtaking mountain scenery. By the time we reached the halfway point, we were gazing at the stunning Hallett and Flattop Mountains—a view so beautiful it looked like a painting.
Scenic Views and a Touch of History
We appreciated the benches along the trail, which made magnificent spots to pause and take in the scenery. Informative signs also share interesting facts about the park’s history. For instance, the lake is named after Abner Sprague, who settled here in 1874. His land later became part of the park, and he was the first person to pay an entrance fee when Rocky Mountain National Park opened.
This lovely loop not only connects you to the beauty of this mountain landscape but also to the pioneers who helped shape this remarkable place.
Must-Do #4: Cruise the Crown Jewel: Bear Lake Road
Get ready for the park’s greatest hits tour. The Bear Lake Road drive packs all the wow—meadows, forests, and epic peaks.
This spot is a rockstar. Parking is its groupie—it vanishes fast. Outsmart the crowds. Arrive at sunrise or after 4 PM. Or, let the free shuttle do the driving. It’s your magic bus to adventure.
The road itself is a wildlife parade. Keep your eyes peeled for elk posing like they own the place. Have your camera ready. These are the bragging rights you came for.
Note: A timed-entry permit is required for the Bear Lake Road Corridor, which covers the entire corridor and provides access to the rest of the park. Permits are valid for 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
he corridor is home to the Bear Lake Trailhead, which is the major gateway for various hikes that can be completed in the area. One of which is the well-known hike to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Besides these, the most visited places within the corridor are the Moraine Park Museum, the Glacier Basin Campground, and the Sprague Lake Picnic Area.
Must-do #5: Bear Lake Nature Trail at the End of the Road
Consider the Bear Lake parking lot a magical disappearing act. It’s an illusion that vanishes faster than you can say “timed-entry permit.” Your best strategy? Become an early bird or embrace the evening light.
Once there, the Bear Lake Nature Trail is the perfect, easy-going introduction. This 0.8-mile loop is a family favorite, circling the lake and serving up postcard views of the surrounding peaks. A word to the wise: its popularity means it can get crowded, so an early start is golden for a more peaceful experience.
But this is just the beginning! Think of the Bear Lake Trailhead as the park’s ultimate adventure hub. From here, you can embark on legendary hikes to stunning destinations:
- Alberta Falls: The most popular short hike, a mere 0.6 miles to a powerful, cascading waterfall.
- Dream Lake: A 1.1-mile journey to an alpine gem.
- Emerald Lake: A 1.8-mile trek that’s absolutely worth every step.
- Flattop Mountain: A challenging 4.4-mile climb for the ambitious.
Must-do #6: Fall River Visitor Center — a Different Perspective
The Fall River Visitor Center is on US-34. There was plenty of room for parking, and the restrooms were spotless. We stopped here on our way to the Trail Ridge Road. The nature center has interesting educational displays for all ages, including a nice wildlife gallery. There is a well-stocked gift shop with supplies, camping equipment, clothing, and snacks. This gift shop has everything you can imagine! There is a junior ranger program, and you can get your passport stamped here as well.
The Fall River Road offers a slower, more rustic alternative to the paved Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. They constructed this one-way, unpaved route in the early 20th century, making it one of the first roads built in the area. It was designed to provide visitors access to the high alpine tundra and scenic vistas, including notable viewpoints like Chasm Falls and Chasm Lake, before ending at the Alpine Visitor Center, where it intersects with Trail Ridge Road. Driving the Fall River Road allows you to experience the park’s historical significance and natural beauty at a more leisurely pace.
Must-do #7: Trail Ridge Road: A Scenic Journey through the Heart of Rocky Mountain National Park
Driving the Trail Ridge Road winds through the upper alpine ridges of Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching an elevation of over 12,000 feet. Traveling the Trail Ridge Road is a breathtaking experience that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the surrounding landscape. The Trail Ridge Road is open seasonally, usually from late May to early October, depending on weather conditions. Check the park website for current road conditions and closures.
This road highlights the diversity within the park, not to mention the outstanding chances of viewing wildlife. Be mindful that the high elevation of the Trail Ridge Road can cause altitude sickness in some people. If you experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, stop and rest or descend to a lower elevation. I would advise spending at least a day in Estes Park to become acclimated to the elevation before embarking on any of the mountain hikes. I had a bout of altitude sickness on our first day in the park.
Must-Do #8: Hike the Trails while Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park
In Rocky Mountain National Park, hiking is an essential activity to truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder. With its diverse landscapes, stunning vistas, and 350 miles of hiking trails, RMNP offers something for hikers of all skill levels. Here are some of the most popular hikes we think you should consider when visiting this remarkable park:
1. Lily Lake Trail: A Serene Gem in Rocky Mountain National Park
Lily Lake Trailhead is along Highway 7 at the end of the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. This is an easy, flat 0.8-mile loop around the lake with very little elevation gain. There is a wide path for walking on this wheelchair accessible trail. This is a perfect stop for older couples or families with kids. Great place to stretch the legs, with gorgeous views of Longs Peak. Look for moose, songbirds, and vividly colored wildflowers in the spring.
2. Discovering Natural Wonders in Rocky Mountain National Park the Wild Basin Trail
The Wild Basin Trail is one of the park’s most popular hiking routes. That is because it leads to the stunning Ouzel Falls, a majestic 40-foot waterfall. The trail is about 8 miles round-trip. The gradual elevation gain made the hike manageable, even for though I had concerns about the effects of high altitude. This meandering trail took us through mature pine forests and green meadows as we followed the river. In addition, along the trail, we encountered smaller waterfalls at Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades before reaching Ouzel Falls. On the North St. Vrain Creek, we could spot elk and deer. With its moderate difficulty level, the Wild Basin Trail was one of our beloved adventures. To start your journey, head to the Wild Basin entrance station accessible via the peak-to-peak scenic byway to Wild Basin Road.
3. Upper Beaver Meadows Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park
The meadows are home to a variety of mammals, such as elk, mule deer, and black bears, and are a magnificent spot for birdwatching. There are several hiking trails that start from Upper Beaver Meadows. These include the Beaver Boardwalk trail, which takes visitors through the wetlands and offers close-up views of beaver dams and lodges. The Beaver Boardwalk trail is approximately 1 mile round-trip. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy this easy, family-friendly hike.
Upper Beaver Meadows Trail
The Upper Beaver Meadows trail is a pleasant and relatively flat 5.0 miles round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 935 feet. If you take the trail in a counterclockwise direction, you will not have to battle any uphill elevation. Through the meadow, there are beautiful wildflowers, especially in the spring. It is a prominent spot for wildlife watching, especially during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
Just a short drive from the main road, the trailhead near the Upper Beaver Meadows picnic area is a perfect starting point if you are looking for a leisurely hike. I must say this picturesque location is ideal for a relaxing lunch or a quick bite. There are convenient amenities such as picnic tables and restrooms. When we did this hike early in the afternoon, I could not help but notice the mature forest of aspen and lodgepole pine. This is another great place to see elk and mule deer. The best part of this trail is when you reached the top of the hill, there are stunning views of Moraine Park’s meadow below.
4. Longs Peak Trail: Conquering the Rockies’ Majestic Summit
Long’s Peak is a 14.5-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 3825 feet is not for the faint of heart. They have limited the parking at the trailhead, so arrive early if you plan to hike the trail. The trail to the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park at 14,259-foot is considered very strenuous. The most accessible route to the summit is the Keyhole Route, which is a strenuous hike that covers approximately 15 miles round-trip and can take up to 16 hours to complete.
Note: Hikers who are in good physical condition and high altitude experienced should attempt this challenging climb. The trail can be very steep and rocky in places with unpredictable weather always a concern.
Hiking Longs Peak is best done during the summer months, when the trail is free of snow and ice. Take plenty of water at least 3-4 liters per person. Pack clothing that can accommodate different conditions, such as rain gearand, clothing with good insulation, layers. Remember, a good pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, ball cap or wide-brimmed hat. High-energy snack foods are best. The weather can change dramatically as you gain elevation. Be prepared to encounter strong winds, lightning, and at some times of the year, snow and ice. This is not a hike in the sense of a gradual climb through a forest. You will walk narrow ledges, cliff faces with loose rock and near-vertical trails.
5. Deer Mountain Trail: A Scenic Hike with Panoramic Rewards
This is 6.2-miles with a gain of 1210 feet elevation. Get a reasonably early start around 7:00 am for a guaranteed parking spot and a less crowded hiking experience. This trail is accessible year-round and is well-traveled. I would advise to wear long pants to avoid ticks, bring lots of water and snacks for the journey. Wear proper hiking shoes, hiking stick and a windbreaker, or warm jacket for inclement weather. Lightning can be deadly on the mountain. The last quarter mile is a series of steep steps. There are a few switchbacks to tackle along the route as well. The summit has breathtaking views of the valley below.
A Few of Our Favorite Trails: Must-Explore Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Emerald Lake Trail: This 3.6-mile round-trip trail is a bit more challenging than the Bear Lake Trail, but offers even more stunning views. The trail passes by three different lakes, including Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake. Along the way, hikers will also see the impressive Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
- Loch Vale Trail: This 5.6-mile round-trip hike offers stunning views of several mountain lakes, including The Loch and Timberline Falls. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. However, the views along the way make it well worth the effort.
- Sky Pond Trail: This 8.5-mile round-trip hike is one of the most challenging in the park, but also one of the most rewarding. The trail passes through stunning alpine scenery and includes a climb up a steep rock face known as “The Ledges.” Once at Sky Pond, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Where to Stay During your Escape to Rocky Mountain National Park
There are no national park lodges within the park. However, there are a few different campgrounds to choose from here. We recommend reservations for all campgrounds, especially during the peak summer season. Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, or Moraine Park can be reserved online through https://www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Longs Peak and Timberline Campgrounds are on a first-come, first-serve basis. All the campgrounds have restroom facilities, and some have showers and laundry facilities as well.
Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Aspenglen has 52 sites, 13 of which are wooded tent-only sites. Some sites are walk- in only. This campground is located just inside the park’s Fall River Entrance, about 7 miles from the town of Estes Park. Close to the Fall River Visitor Center. Open from late May through late September.
- Glacier Basin Campground has 150 sites (no electrical hookups), 73 tent-only sites. The mostly wooded sites for this campground it lies on the east side of the park, about 8 miles from the town of Estes Park. Open year-round, although some loops are closed in the winter.
- Longs Peak Campground-on the east side of the park, about 9 miles from the town of Estes Park it has 26 tent-only sites, no RVs allowed. The mostly forested campground is at an elevation of 9500 feet. Open from late May through late September.
- Moraine Park Campground has 244 campsites, with 101 being for tents only. This is in the beautiful Moraine Park just 2.5 miles from the town of Estes Park. It has great valley views.
- Timber Creek Campground is the only campground on the west side 10 miles from the town of Grand Lake nearest the Colorado River. With 98 campsites, none of the campsites are for tents only. Because there is very little shade at the sites because of bark beetle-infested trees being removed it, therefore, it can be hot. Open from late May through late September.
Final Thoughts on a Getaway Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park
It’s easy to see why this park is one of the crown jewels of the National Park System. It was wonderful discovering outdoor adventures. A visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This is truly a breathtaking destination that I cannot wait to revisit. From its majestic mountain peaks to its serene lakes and rivers, this is one of the coolest parks we have ever visited. Where else can you travel from the alpine tundra to the subalpine forests and montane meadows all in one day? This destination is a must-visit that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list when visiting Colorado.
Have you been to Rocky Mountain National Park? If so, what was your favorite memory? Share with us in the comments below. Thank you!
