Rocky Mountain National Park protects some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado. Driving Trail Ridge Road leads to gorgeous vistas as you explore the alpine and sub-alpine environments. Furthermore, the opportunities for hiking, camping, and backcountry camping are some of the best in the country. Prepare for crowds when you visit this western marvel.
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Rocky Mountain National Park Information
Park Size: 265,461 acres
Established: January 26, 1915
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, or $20 per person/cyclist (valid for 7 days). There is also the option of a $25 single-day pass per vehicle.
Nearby Communities: Estes Park, Grand Lake
Visitor Centers: Alpine, Beaver Meadows, Fall River, and Kawuneeche are the park’s main visitor centers. There’s also the Holzwarth Historic Site, Moraine Park Discovery Center, and Sheep Lakes Information Station.
Campgrounds: Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, Longs Peak, Moraine Park, Timber Creek
How to Get There: The park is connected to two major interstates in Colorado, I-25 and I-70, via scenic state highways. More information is available here.
Best Time to Visit: The park’s Trail Ridge Road closes in winter due to high snow accumulation. Most of the winter recreation opportunities are centered around Bear Lake and the immediately surrounding area. To access more of the park via its scenic highway, I recommend visiting between late May and early October. Summer and fall are the busiest times of the year. You should expect crowds and long lines at the entrance stations.
Unique Things to Do: Hike to Longs Peak, the only Colorado 14-er in the park, or drive. Driving the stunning Trail Ridge Road to soar above the Rockies at 12,000 feet. Visit in fall for the elk rut and their bugling calls.
Rocky Mountain National Park Products
Rocky Mountain National Park Pennant
Fodor’s Guide to the 63 National Parks
Women’s National Parks Checklist T-Shirt
Women’s National Parks Checklist T-Shirt
Map of National Parks T-Shirt
Rocky Mountain National Park Sticker
Rocky Mountain National Park Pin
Rocky Mountain National Park Patch
Rocky Mountain National Park Earrings
63 National Parks Water Bottle
Hiking Rocky Mountain Guidebook
Rocky Mountain Ornament
Rocky Mountain National Park Sticker
Rocky Mountain Cross Stitch Kit
Rocky Mountain National Park Map Puzzle
