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Looking for things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park? If you’re looking for the perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and heart-pumping outdoor activities, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in Colorado is calling your name. Nestled right in the heart of the Rockies, RMNP is your go-to spot for epic hikes, wildlife spotting, and jaw-dropping scenery. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!
Getting There
First things first, let’s get you there. How far is Rocky National Park from Denver you may ask? RMNP is just 70 miles northwest of Denver, making it an easy day trip or weekend escape. The charming town of Estes Park is your gateway to the park, offering cozy lodges, yummy eats, and cute shops.
We were lucky enough to visit Estes Park and RMNP in the beginning of October and it was gorgeous. The aspens were still bright yellow and there was snow on the mountain peaks. I could stare at the scenery all day long.
Note: Mid May- October RMNP operates on a timed entry permit reservation system. This means you will have to select what time you want to enter the park and make a reservation beforehand. There is both the basic entry and the “plus” option that includes access to Bear Lake Road. You can book your visit and see the booking schedule at the Rocky Mountain National Park website here.
Best Time to Visit
The park is a year-round playground, but here’s what to expect each season:
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and soaking up the sunshine. Expect crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
- Fall (September to November): Think stunning fall colors and the magical elk rutting season. Cooler temps and fewer people make it a great time to visit.
- Winter (December to February): Time for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter wonderland vibes.
- Spring (March to May): Wildflowers start to bloom and the snow melts away. Trails might still be snowy, but the scenery is gorgeous.
Top Attractions and Activities
1. Trail Ridge Road
- Highlights: Known as the “Highway to the Sky,” this scenic byway reaches elevations of over 12,000 feet, offering stunning panoramic views of the Rockies.
- Activities: Drive the road, stop at overlooks, and visit the Alpine Visitor Center. Open from late May to early October, weather permitting.
- Worth Mentioning: I’m afraid of heights and was a little intimidated by some parts of the drive. It’s, in my opinion, no where near as scary of a drive as Pikes Peak but if you’re afraid of heights like me you may want to consider sharing the driving responsibilities with someone else.
2. Bear Lake
- Highlights: One of the most popular spots in the park, Bear Lake is an easily accessible, picturesque alpine lake.
- Activities: Enjoy a short, family-friendly hike around the lake, or use it as a starting point for more challenging hikes to destinations like Emerald Lake, Dream Lake, and Lake Haiyaha.
- Worth Mentioning: Due to limited parking, during the busiest parts of the season, there is a shuttle service that takes you from the Bear Lake parking area to Bear Lake. It also stops at Bierstadt Lake Trailhead and Glacier Gorge Trailhead. You can purchase tickets for the shuttle ahead of time at the recreation.gov website.
3. Longs Peak
- Highlights: The tallest peak in the park, standing at 14,259 feet. A challenging climb for experienced hikers and climbers.
- Activities: Attempt the Keyhole Route if you’re an experienced mountaineer. For those looking for a less strenuous adventure, enjoy views of the peak from various points in the park.
4. Wildlife Watching
- Highlights: The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, black bears, and more.
- Activities: Prime spots for wildlife viewing include Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, and the Kawuneeche Valley. Dawn and dusk are the best times to see animals.
5. Hiking Trails
- Highlights: RMNP boasts over 355 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous backcountry routes.
- Popular Trails:
- Alberta Falls: A 1.7-mile round trip to a beautiful waterfall.
- Sky Pond: A challenging 9-mile round trip offering stunning alpine scenery.
- Chasm Lake: An 8.4-mile round trip that rewards hikers with a spectacular lake nestled beneath the sheer cliffs of Longs Peak.
- Dream and Emerald Lakes: a stunning 3.6-mile round-trip trek through alpine scenery, featuring crystal-clear lakes, pine forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Looking for a guide? Check out this early morning hike tour.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Get There Early: Parking fills up fast, especially in the summer. Beat the crowds by arriving early.
- Stay Hydrated and Prepared: The high altitude can sneak up on you. Drink lots of water, pack snacks, and be ready for weather changes.
- Leave No Trace: Keep the park beautiful by packing out all trash and respecting wildlife.
- Use the Shuttle: During peak season, the park’s shuttle system can save you parking headaches and get you to popular trailheads easily.
- Book a Tour: Don’t know where to start? Book a driving or hiking tour and let the experts work out the details.
Where to Stay
Estes Park: The most convenient base for exploring the park, offering a range of accommodations from cozy cabins to luxury resorts.
Inside the Park: For a more immersive experience, consider staying at one of the park’s campgrounds. Options include Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, and Aspenglen.
Dining Options
In Estes Park: Enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining. Popular spots include The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern, Bird & Jim, and Claire’s Restaurant and Bar. Picnicking: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The park has numerous picnic areas, including Hidden Valley, Endovalley, and Sprague Lake.
Final Thoughts
Rocky Mountain National Park is the ultimate adventure playground, offering everything from epic hikes to chill wildlife watching. Whether you’re scaling peaks, spotting elk, or just soaking in the views, RMNP is sure to leave you with awesome memories. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for a Mile-High adventure you’ll never forget!
