Access: Drive-in 1.7 miles to trailhead and park. Elevation: 7,935'. WorldMark Estes Park. Bye-Bye, Trapping on Public Land in New Mexico, Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights. Before you go, check with the National Park Service website about bivouac permits and closures for raptor nesting. Something went wrong. These easy hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado are a great way to experience some of the most scenic lakes and mountain peaks without major miles. Take a Leisurely Stroll by Boulder Brook. Less than 50 Colorado mountains have glaciers and Longs Peak is one of them. 3. Drive down to Granby if you are staying on the west side of the park near Grand Lake. Get your camera ready for these top picture-worthy spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view. during your visit. Explore the accessible and family-friendly Coyote Valley Trail to look for wildlife, get an up-close view of the river and have a picnic. Many of the park trails are accessible by snowshoe. The homesteads at Homestead Meadows are a relic to a lost time. One week was perfect for us. With parts of the park soaring up to 14,259 feet above sea level, visitors can enjoy mountain views which are reachable by scenic hiking trails. Both Bear Lake and Sprague Lake are perfect spots for a quick photo or a nice stroll. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the USA. Its 10 miles long and tops out at almost 13,000 feet, so its a tough hike, but the views are incredible. You can cross the Continental Divide by foot or by driving Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved through road in the national park system. Just a lovely, lovely, thorough guide to the Park and area. Several backcountry camping sites are available (inquire with the National Park Service) making this a wonderful place to witness a summertime meteor shower. The Smokies is home to many waterfalls, but sometimes trekking to a waterfall can be crowded. Rocky Mountain National Park Boondocking Spots - 12 Miles From Monument Entrance: Coyote Hill Road. For more information about what to do in Estes Park, including where to stay and where to eat, read our Guide to Estes Park. Sara Broers 2. Your email address will not be published. The meadow is large and edged by the forest. In the fall, the park lights up with a brilliant color of mostly yellowed aspens and a few spots of orange and red. Cresting just over 12,000 feet, it is the highest through paved highway in the nation, and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Visit recreation.gov to make your reservation. The Desert Watchtower rests on the south rim of the Grand Canyon, at an elevation of 7,500 feet. One of the best places to see inside Rocky Mountain National Park is the tundra ecosystem, which is the land above the trees. The valley boasts rich history, too: Europeans first settled there in the 1820s, as evidenced by historic log cabins, barns, churches, and grist mill, all of which the park maintains today. Hollowell Park(10 tables) - also located along Bear Lake Road. This is one of the best places to see elk without buildings like hotels or visitor centers. Spend the first few days hiking the lower trails (Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, Gem Lake, and Deer Mountain are good options). 15 miles, extremely difficult. 4 tables in pavilion, scattered tables on hillside, Available by reservation only; $350 administrative fee to reserve area, Only self-contained grills only with special use permit, Vault toilets next to parking lot at Lily Lake, Summer flush toilets. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. The campground is located at 9,500 feet or 2,896 meters. Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. This trail is not paved (its a gravel trail for most of its length) but it is considered handicap accessible. After your picnic, head out for a hike on the Summerland Park trail. Where can you find easy access to 600 miles of mountain biking trails just 90 minutes from Denver? A few minutes into the trail, youll find tables flaked by shady trees. Scenic overlooks abound and the alpine tundra will take your breath away. Bear Lake | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Horses and other stock are not permitted in auto campgrounds and picnic areas. The strenuous part of the Rocky Mountain National Park safari starts here. Access: Easy hiking. Start a hike from one of the many trailheads, stop for a picnic, or visit the Holzwarth Historic Site. Over the following years, they built several more cabins which were used for guests. There are plenty of naturally beautiful places for a picnic, making this a must-see place in Motor City. If you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park along with other national parks, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 and valid for all of the national parks for one year). If you're an early riser, this is a charming photo op at sunrise, when the first rays of dawn light up the east-facing mountains. The 14-mile Mount Evans Scenic Byway leads to the 14,264-foot high summit of Mount Evans. Important: Trail Ridge Road is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October. The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mondays - Fridays and 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays in winter. Sierra Club and "Explore, enjoy and protect the planet" are registered trademarks of the Sierra Club. Get updates on road conditions on the national park service website. Mojave National Preserve. The lowest zone (Montane, from 5,600 to 9,500 feet) encompasses the meadows and the lower slopes of the mountains. There are sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet and many of these top out over 13,000 feet. 11 miles of this road is located in the alpine tundra, which is above the treeline. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park. Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida | Best Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. For more information on planning your time, on how to plan your itinerary, with suggestions from several days up to 1 week. Not all the action happens above 10,00 feet. These 14 best picnic spots in Colorado are just waiting for a and basket full of food. Forest Canyon Overlook | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, View from Forest Canyon Overlook | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Backpack into the heart of the park and sleep under the stars. Local advice about Rocky Mountain NP's hikes you can't miss. Some visitors complain of noise and hot temperatures in the summer (there is no air conditioning). Here is a map of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. In the winter months, ice climbing is an option. You also can access the park's west side via the park's spectacular Trail Ridge Road, which connects the two sides of the park. With so many incredible locations I'll go over the best places to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park and go over some logistics and tips! View from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Longs Peak, at 14,259 feet, is the only fourteener in the park, but for serious hikers, getting to the top of this behemoth is one of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. With its network of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a great summer and fall destination. Can We Address the Climate Crisis by Degrowing? This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. * The use of disposable or portable charcoal grills, wood fuel camp stoves, and gas grills is allowed for food preparation as adjuncts to fire grates provided by the park in auto campgrounds and picnic areas. Access: Fairly strenuous hiking. The scenic bypass is spectacular year-round, but travelers can have the best experience in the fall. This trail eventually leads to the mighty river's headwaters, near Poudre Pass. There are 68 picnic spots, as well as a short 0.8 hike that's perfect for the whole family to enjoy! Experience life above treeline at the Gore Range Overlook. Odessa & Fern Lakes Hike. For 48 miles, this road runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west. But the fact youre in the front country doesnt mean you have to sacrifice scenery. Just outside the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, the historic Stanley Hotel, which opened in 1909, offers an ideal base for exploring the park as well as being a rather interesting attraction in its own right. How many days do you need in Rocky Mountain National Park? Located in northern Colorado, in the western United States, Rocky Mountain National Park is the 6th highest national park in the USA. How Much Time Do You Need in Rocky Mountain National Park? . 10.4 miles, strenuous. Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver 258 Full-day Tours from $139.00 per adult Explore & Photograph Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park with a Pro 1 Adventure Tours from $240.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Private and Personalized Three Hour Morning Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park 30 Bus Tours from It starts in Horseshoe Park and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center. However, at 265,000 acres in size, the park also harbors thousands of quiet, off-the-beaten path places that most visitors don't know about. You'll find Longs Peak near the trailhead to hike the summit of Longs Peak, which is the only 14er in Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 9.4 miles Elevation Gain: 1,683 feet Difficulty: moderate Estimated Time: 4.75 hours The busiest spot in this wilderness area is Brainard Lake, home to many campgrounds, making it an ideal destination and hiking. There's over 300 miles of them, dotted with wildflowers and offering thrilling alpine scenery. Like Bear Lake, it is an easy hike to get here. Being the first and oldest scenic drive established in Colorado, Peak to Peak is significant historically. For more information on planning your time, we have a detailed post on how to plan your itinerary, with suggestions from several days up to 1 week. Continental Divide Trail to Mount Ida. Any picnicking which interferes with overnight campers is prohibited at all times. The Glacier Basin Campground consists of 150 single-occupancy campsites with 13 group sites. at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Meander to Zions less crowded northern end to discover Koloba network of burnt orange, 2,000-foot box canyons. By AndyB5542. As one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Alberta Falls Trail is a must on any itinerary. Consider a trip to one of Colorado's most popular recreational destinations. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. For a quiet picnic among aspens and pine, head to Summerland Park just northeast of Grand Lake. Can't-miss highlight of this Colorado mountain town: Designed with families in mind, Granby Ranch ski resort comprises four chair lifts over two mountains: East, offering green and blue trails, and West, with more challenging blue and black ones. Access in the winter is by foot only. Rocky Mountain National Park in Julyon the trail to Emerald and Dream Lakes. PRO TRAVEL TIP: It can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler on the alpine tundra than in Estes Park or Grand Lake. Need a 2023 New Years Resolution? Picnic areas speckle the national park and vary widely in types and sizes. This is the highest paved road in North America, 154 feet higher than Pikes Peak. Access:Strenuous hiking. Longs Peak and Timber Creek Campgrounds are easier to get reservations. Chasm Lake. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. Alberta Falls | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls at sunrise | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Work up an appetite by strolling the half-mile loop around the 13-acre lake, which offers stunning views of several mountains in the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak. Just northwest of Denver lies Rocky Mountain National Park, home to 415 square miles of majestic peaks that soar up to 14,000 feet and more than 350 miles of trails that take you into untouched wilderness. With fascinating natural wonders, including beautiful lakes and forests, here are the top attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park. At more than 12,000 feet and home to several Alpine lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States.. Travelers who like the outdoors or just want some time away from the city will enjoy this short 90-mile adventure northwest of Denver. The absolute best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Rocky Mountain National Park rocks, literally and figuratively. This is a must-do hike for avid hikers. Make sure you bring extra layers, even during the summer months. Alberta Falls Trail. The alpine tundra encompasses the highest areas of the park. Distance: 4.6 miles. The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mondays - Fridays and 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays in winter. The Trail provides incredibly beautiful natural scenery, waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. Journey higher to the subalpine region (9,000 to 11,000 feet), into the evergreen forests and mountain lakes. Of all the waterfalls found in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls is the most accessible and famous one. Book your permit as far in advance as you can, which can be up to one year in advance or as late as 7 days. There's also an easy half-mile walk to Nymph Lake, and it's half-mile or so farther to Dream Lake. On the eastern shore of Grand Lake lies the ever-popular trail toAdams Falls. The Alpine Visitor Center sits close to the halfway mark, and is a perfect place to grab a cup of hot chocolate and soak in the views. It is located just outside of Estes Park, on the south side, an excellent location for driving into the park. Activities range from bouldering to easy climbs to multi-day climbs up vertical cliffs. Set your long exposure on your camera to capture the cascading falls of Alberta Falls. Note: The trailhead is in the park, but the path leaves the park boundaries and enters National Forest land in short order. This massive natural feature can be seen almost anywhere in the park, and offers one of the most scenic and challenging 14er climbs in Colorado, by way of the Keyhole Route. Find more information on picnicking in Rocky Mountain National Park, including regulations, group fees and responsible practices at the officialRocky Mountain National Park Picnicwebpage. 12 Best Hotels in Rocky Mountain National Park | U.S. News When to Go Stargazing in Rocky Mountain National Park. Most visitors arrive during the summer and on fall weekends. A post shared by Rocky Mountain National Park (@rockynps) on Sep 7, 2016 at 1:05pm PDT, Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park. there are always elk. Day 2 - Start with a scenic drive from Boulder to Rocky Mountain National Park (60-90 minute drive), visit Trail Ridge Road and end with a hike on the Wild Basin trail (1-6 mile options) with plenty of chances to see wildlife. The 3.3-mile loop begins as a wide dirt road before headinginto the forest to become a relatively easy hiking trail running along the Tonahutu Creek and through towering aspens. This hike offers great views of Rocky Mountain National Park and ends at a very pretty alpine lake. Old Fall River Road | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail gets a bit muddy during rainy months, but visitors don't have to worry as the scrambling spots are well taken care of and accessible for exploration. 500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517 | 970-577-9900, Colorado State Special District Records Management. Visitor Centers These breathtaking forests surround Rocky Mountain National Park and offer visitors a lot to see and do. 9.5 miles, strenuous. Lindsey Botts. If you have any questions about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, let us know in the comment section below. For those willing to put in the effort, the hike up Baker Gulch to Parika Lake will leave an indelible memory. Sprague Lake(27 tables) - located along Bear Lake Road. On the Keyhole Route, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure. 3. 970 586-1206 This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park Sprague Lake is a popular picnic spot and wedding destination. When looking for picture-perfect lodging near in Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts. With 355 miles of hiking trails, you could spend weeks here and never run out of things to do. Sky Pond. rocky Mountain national park wedding Permit Tips. Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. At 14,259 feet, the only fourteener on this list, the trek up Longs Peak is one of the most epic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. From a picnic table atBeaver Meadows Visitor Centerto large-scale, outdoor cafeteria-like settings, you can find just the right atmosphere and convenience you seek. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Our website uses cookies. Five visitor centers are situated throughout the park and are a great place to start your park adventure, learn something new, get that burning question answered, or purchase a souvenir in one of the Rocky Mountain Conservancy gift shops. Tucked away on an especially scenic section of Fall River, the RMNP Fall River entrance is just 3 miles up the road. Hit the trails on horseback. Her writing is inspired by her passion to travel to new destinations and inspire others to get out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty of this world - whether they travel around the world or in their own countries. The incredible landscapes of the Upper Colorado River, including valleys, willows, cottonwoods, ranchlands, rugged cliffs, and deep canyons are worth exploring. This humble technology reduces home emissions. You can drive Trail Ridge Road, visit the Alpine Visitor Center, hike to Longs Peak and to Chasm Lake, and hike Gem Lake. COLORADO: To read all of our articles about Colorado, check out our Colorado Travel Guide. Twin Sisters. Not only will you have amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, there is a good chance that you will get to see elk along the way. Nicky's Resort opened its doors in 1964 and has long been hailed as one of the best boutique hotels near Rocky Mountain National Park. Temperatures are low in the winter, but so are the crowds. I recommend staying at The Residences. Best tip to help: plan ahead. The main activity here is taking rafting trips while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Work up an appetite by strolling the half-mile loop around the 13-acre lake, which offers stunning views of several mountains in the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak. The picnic area has 10 tables. For an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime, these attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park are worth exploring. Montana's Glacier National Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Rocky Mountain National Park features plenty of fascinating spots to visit and explore. Home to the headwaters of the mighty Colorado River, the Kawuneeche Valley is a great place to enjoy the quieter west side of Rocky. Chimney Tops A great place for the whole family to enjoy a picnic is at the Chimney Tops picnic area. Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series, Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Travel Guide. Near the Alpine Visitor Center, this overlook provides sweeping views of the Gore Range and Never Summer Range. Estes Park The Aspire rooms are higher-end, modernly decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get. 3.6 miles, easy to moderate. Sign up for email updates on nature, environmental politics, living well, and doing good. 3M Curve, also commonly known as the Longs Peak Viewpoint, is an easy 3.5-mile drive from Beavers Meadow Visitor Center on the East entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. As it should be because the park offers a variety of activities like camping, climbing, biking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Covering about 5.3-kilometer length, Glacier Gorge Trail takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. Along the way, there is a good chance that you will spot bighorn sheep and elk. Plenty of room, good WiFi, nice furnishings, and beautiful views from our balcony. Climb the 85 steps to the towers observation deck, and youll get to take in the 360-degree panorama of the canyon, as well as the Colorado River, a mile below, and to the east, Arizonas Painted Desert. Visitors can engage in hiking, camping, horse riding, scenic driving, and water sports, including fishing, swimming, and paddling. We stayed in a 3-bedroom house, #402, and it was perfect. It's a flat, beautiful easy walk in the parkliterally. Rocky offers places for family fun, adventure, solitude, recreation, and countless other pursuits. Return to Boulder and enjoy the "Foodiest Town" in America. Winter vault toilets, 1000 US Hwy 36 Estes Park Homestead Meadows 14 Great Sand Dunes National Park Boondocking (Updated 2022) This hike is one of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Where portable grills are allowed, the used charcoal and ash must be completely extinguished and disposed of in trash receptacle. (970) 586-1206. In 2021, Rocky Mountain National Park was the 5th most visited national park in the United States, with 4.4 million visitors. Drive to the top and your car will be higher than any other automobile on the continent. If you want to stand on the Continental Divide, pull in to the Milner Pass overlook. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Nymph Lake is a beautiful water body surrounded by stunning mountain views. While the water at the lake is mostly . 2. City Slickers: Cheesman Park, Denver. The loop walk around Bear Lake itself, less than a mile long, provides great views of jagged Hallett Peak and distant Longs Peak. 3/4 mile loop, with minimal elevation gain. The Cascade Ponds picnic area has over 40 picnic tables, firewood, several options for parking, toilets and shelters. NEXT: These 10 National Parks In Kenya Will Have You Book a Flight. 100% 8 Reviews. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. This area also offers 30 fire grates, allows portable grills and has vault toilets. . When I visited in April, the farthest I could go on the east side was to Rainbow Curve. Crowds will be low and with the snow, it will be magical. This is one of the best overlooks located along Trail Ridge Road. After lunch, make the short drive south toward Gibbon Falls, where a half-mile loop trail is suitable for all skill levels. And there are many to choose from. Here, the melting snow makes way for Frisbee throwing, people watching and picnicking in droves. Alpine Ridge Trail. There is even a three-bedroom house that can accommodate up to nine people. Longs peak is Rocky Mountain National Park's highest point and is more than 14000 feet above the average sea level (the parks only fourteener), making it a spot of interest to climbers and hikers. 3.7 miles one way, roughly 600 feet in elevation gain. Because whats better than food? Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. Valley of Fire State Park. Located along Highway 7 just south of Estes Park, beautiful Lily Lake features stunning views of Longs Peak, picnic tables, a fishing pier, and a short accessible family-friendly trail around the lake. This one-way, gravel road is 11 miles long and it takes about one hour to drive it. Access: Moderate hiking. There are plenty of places throughout the park where this spectacular display can be admired. To visit Rocky Mountain National Park from May 27 to October 10, 2022, you will need to reserve a permit in advance. Overlooking Moraine Park from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. 2. For 4 miles, you hike through the alpine tundra with awesome views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide. Related Read: 11 Beautiful National Forests in Colorado for Outdoor Recreation 1. Nice stroll consists of 150 single-occupancy campsites with 13 group sites its a tough,... Drive-In 1.7 miles to trailhead and Park and lots of exposure these 10 Parks... For parking, toilets and shelters spots - 12 miles from Monument Entrance: Coyote Hill Road on... United States, Rocky Mountain National Park are worth exploring lakes, wildflowers, and beautiful views from our.! To Granby if you are staying on the eastern shore of Grand Lake have to sacrifice scenery handicap accessible interferes!, dotted with wildflowers and offering thrilling alpine scenery can have the overlooks! Water body surrounded by stunning Mountain views the forest serious rock scrambling and of... Of Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park must-see place in Motor City part of the River have... 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