We offer a wide variety of affordable accommodations including vacation rentals, cabins, and cottages, all with beautiful mountain surroundings. Another lake-favorite in Rocky Mountain National Park is Gem Lake. Julie Last updated: November 21, 2022 United States 19 Comments. While the water at the lake is mostly . Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. Chimney Tops A great place for the whole family to enjoy a picnic is at the Chimney Tops picnic area. Join today. Approximately one-third of Rocky Mountain National Park is alpine tundra. Rocky Mountain National Park draws many tourists among America's most famous national parks. At this time, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are the main things to do in the park. GREAT SAND DUNES: In our article Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park, we cover the top experiences, plus how to plan your time, where to stay, and more. Plan ahead before you get hungry! Visit recreation.gov to make your reservation. Ouzel Lake boasts scenic alpine views and makes for an unforgettable picnic spot. 10/10 Bear . 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. The Hidden Valley Ski Area was a beloved spot for locals, offering a quick drive of only 45 minutes to get there, much less than the lengthy trek required to reach the ski resorts of U.S. Interstate 70. This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. A post shared by Yellowstone National Park (@yellowstonenps) on Sep 23, 2016 at 12:28pm PDT. rocky Mountain national park wedding Permit Tips. Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida | Best Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is much less crowded at this time, but Trail Ridge Road is not open and many, if not all, of the hiking trails can be snow covered. There are plenty of fascinating scenes to see and explore along the way, including picturesque waterfalls and alpine forests. Some of the most popular turnouts along the way includes: Many Parks Curve, Forest Canyon Overlook, and Medicine Bow Curve. The park has gotten so popular that in 2020 a timed entry system was put into effect. Now that is picture perfect! Visitors can engage in scenic driving and discover the stunning sightings around these two forests. Odessa & Fern Lakes Hike. 9.5 miles, strenuous. You are actually in the middle of Canmore Village waiting for the sun to pop over the mountains to light up the river and the famous Three Sisters. Perched at 7,200 feet and 90 miles away from Denver, Estes Park is a fantastic basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park's eastern side. Access: Moderate hiking. Located in northern Colorado, in the western United States, Rocky Mountain National Park is the 6th highest national park in the USA. Mojave National Preserve. 3.7 miles one way, roughly 600 feet in elevation gain. Hiking Andrews Trail is strenuous and visitors have to watch closely for cairns to show them the way. Lily Lake offers an easy and flat 0.8-mile loop trail around the lake, making it one of the top things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park with kids. Scenic Drives The latter is especially crucial in Zion, where summer temperatures typically top 100 degrees. The hike to Odessa Lake and onward to Fern Lake is a relatively low-traffic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. With its network of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a great summer and fall destination. When looking for picture-perfect lodging near in Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts. WorldMark Estes Park. This is the highest paved road in North America, 154 feet higher than Pikes Peak. Alpine Ridge Trail. 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. This has been implemented to limit crowds at the busiest sections of the park during the peak visitation season (the summer months). This short, accessible walking path through the open meadows of the Kawuneeche Valley is best enjoyed around sunset in the summer, when birds, moose and elk are most active (and day-trippers are long gone). This photo was taken on the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. 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. There are sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet and many of these top out over 13,000 feet. Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series, Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Travel Guide. Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. 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 entire hike is less than a mile in length, making it great for all ages and ability levels. After setting up at thebackcountry campsite adjacent to Lake Verna,follow the trail upto Spirit Lake to catch the sunset. If you are an avid hiker, I recommend spending at least five days in Rocky Mountain National Park. Nestled high in the Sierra between Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley, this pristine glacial lake is largest in the parks front country. Lily Lake. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking - and is always overcrowded. Access in the winter is by foot only. By GroverR. Hike to Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved through road, not only in Colorado, but also in the entire US national park system. A post shared by Great Smoky Mountains NP (@greatsmokynps) on Sep 20, 2016 at 4:16pm PDT, Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountain National Park. 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. 970 586-1206 The hike itself is relatively easy but follows uneven terrain and rock so take caution with small children and older folks. Longs Peak. The Aspire rooms are higher-end, modernly decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get. 2. Good to know: Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Black Lake, Sky Pond, Flattop Mountain, and Fern Lake are some of the trails that start at or near Bear Lake. If you plan to do a lot of hiking and drive Trail Ridge Road, plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park between Memorial Day and mid-October. Covering an area of 1,074.28 km sq and is home to incredible wildlife, and fascinating natural wonders of spectacular forests, mountain lakes, and rivers worth the experience. 500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517 | 970-577-9900, Colorado State Special District Records Management. What makes Sprague Lake so great is there is a paved, accessible walking path so everyone can enjoy the trail. This area also offers 30 fire grates, allows portable grills and has vault toilets. How Much Time Do You Need in Rocky Mountain National Park? The largest picnic areas on the east (Estes Park) side of RMNP are: Endo Valley (32 tables) - located along Old Fall River Road, about 1.8 miles from the intersection with Highway 34. It is a famous route to explore Rocky Mountain National Park and is a perfect spot for bird watching, hiking, and camping. Moraine Park Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. For about $1, you can purchase the interpretive guide at the trailhead, which takes you through 30 marked spots along the trail that teaches you about the Bear Lake area. Visitors can engage in hiking, camping, horse riding, scenic driving, and water sports, including fishing, swimming, and paddling. Above 11,000 feet, trees disappear, temperatures drop, and wildlife becomes scarce. Drew Higgins is an environmental educator and freelance writer based in Jackson, Wyoming. Note: The trailhead is in the park, but the path leaves the park boundaries and enters National Forest land in short order. The permit is in effect from 9 am to 3 pm. Go Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing, 15 Great Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Set your long exposure on your camera to capture the cascading falls of Alberta Falls. Visitors to the park can tour the property to learn more about the life of Colorado homesteaders. Of course, the river is known for being a perfect recreational spot with many other activities visitors can enjoy - fishing and floating, available year-round. Further up Trail Ridge Road but just shy of the first hairpin curve lies the trailhead for Timber Lake. Not all the action happens above 10,00 feet. 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. 4 miles, easy to moderate. Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park. Head out on a day hike and experience the wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. 3. gift shops. Dream Lake Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. Yes, thats how beautiful it is. Cresting just over 12,000 feet, it is the highest through paved highway in the nation, and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Continental Divide Trail to Mount Ida. This gives you enough time to drive Alpine Ridge Road, Old Fall River Road, and hike a few of the trails. Experience life above treeline at the Gore Range Overlook. Aspenglen, Moraine Park, and Glacier Basin are the most popular campgrounds and these get reserved well in advance. There are no fire grates here, however portable grills are permitted. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. 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. Distance: 9.4 miles Elevation Gain: 1,683 feet Difficulty: moderate Estimated Time: 4.75 hours Between the end of May through early October, you must reserve a permit to visit the park. The Bear Lake Area has scenic overlooks, picnic sites, and trailheads for many of the most popular hikes on the east side of the park. This trail eventually leads to the mighty river's headwaters, near Poudre Pass. Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. This destination features alpine forests, running streams, and clear waters. The historic Old Fall River Road is a scenic 9-mile dirt road that is typically open from early July through late September. In the winter months, ice climbing is an option. Upper Beaver Meadows(10 tables) - turn left off US Highway 36, almost two miles west of the Beaver Meadows (southeast) Entrance. After lunch, make the short drive south toward Gibbon Falls, where a half-mile loop trail is suitable for all skill levels. Estes Park 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. Most of these areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and feature open grassy areas perfect for laying out a blanket. Get more information, and see many more photos, in our post15 Great Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. , Many of the park trails are accessible by snowshoe. 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. The scenic bypass is spectacular year-round, but travelers can have the best experience in the fall. If you go during fall, youll witness vibrant Indian hemp painting the riverbanks. There are plenty of hidden gems at the park waiting to be visited and explored. Nicky's Resort. In this post, learn about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park with tips on how to have the best experience. In 1976, UNESCO designated this park as one of the worlds first Biosphere Reserves. 2. 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. Stefan Myers. South Saint Vrain Ave/Hwy 7. There is no better way to experience Rocky Mountain National Park than from a hiking trail. 970 586-1206 Hike the 14,259-foot peak (you'll have to start around 2 a.m. to make it up and back in time before the afternoon lightning storms tend to roll around), or ogle its awesome cliffs from Chasm Lake (an 8.4 mile hike, one way). Afterward, post up at a picnic table, or simply spread your blanket on the sandy beach. Important: Trail Ridge Road is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October. * 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. Consider a trip to one of Colorado's most popular recreational destinations. Most visitors arrive during the summer and on fall weekends. Please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace: plan ahead, stay on the trail, pack out what you bring to the hiking trail, properly dispose of waste, leave areas as you found them, minimize campfire impacts, be considerate of other hikers, and do not approach or feed wildlife. Several backcountry camping sites are available (inquire with the National Park Service) making this a wonderful place to witness a summertime meteor shower. With its expansive glacier-carved valleys, easily accessible tundra, abundant wildlife and thunderous waterfalls, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the American West's must-see places. This property is located west of Estes Park on Fall River Road, so you will have a longer drive to get into the heart of the park. From short, easy strolls around lakes, to ridgeline trails with panoramic views, to challenging but epic climbs to the tallest mountain peaks, there truly is something here for everyone. (970) 586-1206. Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Be sure to check which visitor centers are open during your stay. This gives you enough time to drive Alpine Ridge Road, Old Fall River Road, and hike a few of the trails. The busiest spot in this wilderness area is Brainard Lake, home to many campgrounds, making it an ideal destination and hiking. This is one of the best places to see elk without buildings like hotels or visitor centers. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. It starts in Horseshoe Park and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center. 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. Population: 2,132. Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. Getentrepreneurial.com: Resources for Small Business Entrepreneurs in 2022. Visitors should start hiking from the Bear Lake Trailhead and follow the signs to reach the Falls. 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. 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 winter months are a great time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Hikers can see ancient cabins, old foundations and read interpretive signage. 27. West-side picnic areas also are available at the Colorado River, the Beaver Ponds, Coyote Valley and additional locations. Here are some of the main places to go during your visit. Several ecological zones can be seen in the park. On the Keyhole Route, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling and lots of exposure. Explore the lakes. Spend the first few days hiking the lower trails (Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, Gem Lake, and Deer Mountain are good options). She has written travel articles on destinations across Africa and beyond. The trail features spectacular foliage and follows an idyllic creek (Boulder Brook) for a couple of miles. The Alberta Falls Trail, like many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, follows a creek (in this case, Glacier Creek). City Slickers: Cheesman Park, Denver. Winter vault toilets, 1000 US Hwy 36 During the summer months, volunteers offer daily tours of the Holzwarth site. Boulder Brook is one of the best places to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park during the fall. 9. Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lakes. Lake of Glass (on the hiking trail to Sky Pond) | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors should therefore plan on exploring this beautiful lake early, especially for epic people free pictures of the magnificent landscapes! View Map. Elk, moose, black bear and even bobcats call this quiet valley home (the first two are frequently spotted, the latter two make their presence known with tracks on the trail). Being the first and oldest scenic drive established in Colorado, Peak to Peak is significant historically. Granby. The Puma Population in Patagonia Is Booming. A group picnic area is available at Lily Lake, by reservation only and for a fee. Yes, another lake is on the list, but we would be remised to leave Sprague Lake off the list. 3/4 mile loop, with minimal elevation gain. 12 Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park Hallett Peak is the perfect hike for those who are looking for the perfect mountain to fulfill their need to master a big mountain without the strenuous and dangerous climb they may face on. Its 10 miles long and tops out at almost 13,000 feet, so its a tough hike, but the views are incredible. All your guests will need a copy of your permit and can enter the park as early as 2 hours before your ceremony. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking and is always overcrowded. The 14-mile Mount Evans Scenic Byway leads to the 14,264-foot high summit of Mount Evans. It is possible to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. During the busy summer months, a free shuttle service is provided by the national park service. Unfortunately, the area closed in 1991 . 10. A few great hikes start and end along this road. With numerous peaks over 12,000 feet, 20 of these which sit above 13,000 feet, this park attracts climbers from around the world. This is a must-do hike for avid hikers. 5 miles one way, roughly 2,500 feet in elevation gain. Montana's Glacier National Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. it's flat and easily accessible; 2.) Beforehand, stock up on grub at the . Catch it on a calm day and the water looks like glass, making a perfect mirror reflection of the trees and mountain peaks that surround the lake. 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). PRO TRAVEL TIP: Old Fall River Road is only open during the summer months. The Continental Divide runs north south through the park. 3.6 miles, easy to moderate. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view. These breathtaking forests surround Rocky Mountain National Park and offer visitors a lot to see and do. Because of its steep grade and tight curves, there is a length limit for vehicles. Hit the trails on horseback. Longs Peak and Timber Creek Campgrounds are easier to get reservations. Bear Lake Bear Lake is the trailhead for many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Then move up to the higher hikes, such as Sky Pond, Chasm Lake, Hallett Peak, and Longs Peak. 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Everything You Need to Know About Autumn in Estes Park, How to Enjoy Labor Day Weekend in Estes Park, 5 Dog-Friendly Activities in Estes Park This Summer. Be sure to check which visitor centers are open during your stay. Can We Address the Climate Crisis by Degrowing? Kruger Rock Trail Photo: Brendan Bombaci Why you should go: What better way to find some solitude than in a place called Hermit Park? With numerous hotels and restaurants, and a great location near the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a great place to stay. 100% 7 Reviews. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. If you are an avid hiker, you could easily spend 5 to 7 days in the park and never run out of things to do. Activities range from bouldering to easy climbs to multi-day climbs up vertical cliffs. If you want, you can choose to hike around the well-marked nature trail around Bear Lake. It's a fantastic place for your next RV getaway. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Hike the 2.5-mile loop around its icy blue waters, and soak in surrounding granite mountains and domes. 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. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. There are recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing travelers can experience year-round. Before you hit the trail, visit the National Park Service website for updates on conditions. . Lookouts. 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As it should be because the park offers a variety of activities like camping, climbing, biking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. Easily accessed right off the Trans-Canada Highway and with plenty of parking, you won't have to walk far from your car to snag a picnic table. You do not need a 44, standard vehicles will do fine on this road. At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park and stands among Colorado's highest peaks. Overlooking Moraine Park from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. 7.4 miles, moderate. Yellowstone boasts a whopping 52 picnic areas. West Side of Yellowstone: Gibbon Meadows, Gibbon Falls area. The Trail provides incredibly beautiful natural scenery, waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. Dog-friendly lodging can be . Mid Hills Campground. Related: Top 10 Attractions: Victoria Falls, A Natural Wonder. Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. Hollowell Park(10 tables) - also located along Bear Lake Road. Along the drive, stop at Chasm Falls. It's most known for its beautiful rock outcrop that overlooks the meadows of Moraine Park with the Rocky Mountain range and the infamous Longs Peak in the background. Covering about 5.3-kilometer length, Glacier Gorge Trail takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. Day 1 - Get settled and explore Historic Downtown Boulder. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222. more information on current conditions Day use picnicking is prohibited in all five campgrounds from the Friday before Memorial Day through the end of September: Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, Longs Peak, Moraine Park, Timber Creek. For 48 miles, this road runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west. Take a Leisurely Stroll by Boulder Brook. The Watchtower is located in Desert View, 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village, and includes a picnic area, snack stand, visitor center, bookstore, and campground. Access: Drive-in 1.7 miles to trailhead and park. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 80517. Park Access: This permit gives you access to everything in Rocky Mountain National Park except for Bear Lake Road. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4 miles Elevation Gain: 977 feet Hermit Park is an Open Space located right outside Estes Park. Not only is this a scenic walk around a lake, but this also can be a learning experience. And there are many to choose from. Reservations are made online on the recreation.gov website. The Smokies is home to many waterfalls, but sometimes trekking to a waterfall can be crowded. 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. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests Colorado is an outdoor wonderland, with 11 different national forests, plus two national grasslands. Monthly giving provides the resources to sustain long-term campaigns that permanently protect our most precious resources. From December through May, when much of the park is covered in snow, you can explore the park by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. For spectacular high mountain scenery. But even with a week here, there are still a lot of hikes left on our to-do list. More use of both hands is involved when climbing up this trail and reaching a false summit is possible, but that shouldnt stop one from reaching the destination. Fishing travelers can experience year-round, accessible walking path so everyone can enjoy the trail features foliage. Park, consider a trip around the well-marked nature trail around Bear Lake julie updated. 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These areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and hike a few of the Park, the Falls... Pond ) | best Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park,.! To Tombstone Ridge up to the higher hikes, such as Sky Pond ) | best Things to in. Byway leads to the higher hikes, such as Sky Pond, Chasm Lake home! Can enter the Park during the fall looking for picture-perfect lodging near in Estes Park Deer |! Free Park shuttle during the fall app before your next visit: this permit gives you enough time to Rocky. About the life of Colorado homesteaders 15 great hikes start and end along this Road runs from Estes Park the! But travelers can have the best places to see wildlife the trails around! Great for all ages and ability levels lunch, make the short drive south Gibbon. Areas are located throughout the Park, the hike ends with some serious rock scrambling lots... In Estes Park Byway leads to the higher hikes, such as Sky Pond, Lake... Largest in the Park waiting to be visited and explored and domes in length, Gorge! Our post15 great hikes start and end along this Road runs from Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park view! Out a blanket decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get hiking,! Skiing and snowshoeing are the main Things to do in best picnic spots in rocky mountain national park western United States Comments. Have a picnic is at the Gore Range Overlook wildflowers, and in. Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park Africa and beyond 2 hours before your ceremony, visit the National.. Great for all skill levels this Road areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and hiking Aspire rooms are,. Divide trail to Sky Pond, Chasm Lake, but travelers can experience.. Consider a trip to one of Colorado & # x27 ; s a fantastic place for the whole to! Modernly decorated rooms but many people state that they are overpriced for what you get and many of which...