Most of these areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and feature open grassy areas perfect for laying out a blanket. For an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime, these attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park are worth exploring. Hikers can see ancient cabins, old foundations and read interpretive signage. There is no better way to experience Rocky Mountain National Park than from a hiking trail. Rock climbing and mountaineering has long been a popular thing to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The Alberta Falls Trail, like many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, follows a creek (in this case, Glacier Creek). Mark your calendarand bookmark the RMNP reservations page on Recreation.gov today so you can explore the park this summer. 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. This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Known as one of America's most haunted hotels, it reportedly . Afterward, post up at a picnic table, or simply spread your blanket on the sandy beach. Due to its large size and abundance of hiking trails, you need at least a few days to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. 10. Moraine Park Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. Valley of Fire State Park. There are plenty of naturally beautiful places for a picnic, making this a must-see place in Motor City. Rocky is a peak baggers' heaven with more than 60 mountains topping out at over 12,000 feet. This is one of the best overlooks located along Trail Ridge Road. Best Things to Do Rocky Mountain National Park. Adventure and solitude are waiting. CO On the hike to Mount Ida, you really feel like you are walking on top of the world. Further up Trail Ridge Road but just shy of the first hairpin curve lies the trailhead for Timber Lake. 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. The main activity here is taking rafting trips while enjoying the beautiful scenery. 4 miles, easy to moderate. Camping Fee - $30 per night (Up to 8 people); $40 per night (9 - 15 people); $50 (16 - 25 people); $60 (26-40 people) Located 8,500 feet above sea level, the Glacier Basin Campground makes full use of its elevation to entertain you with dazzling, eye-catching views. Hollowell Park(10 tables) - also located along Bear Lake Road. In the spring, warmer temperatures melt the snow and visitation picks up. Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park Sprague Lake is a popular picnic spot and wedding destination. 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. Sprague Lake (27 tables) - located along Bear Lake Road. A post shared by Rocky Mountain National Park (@rockynps) on Sep 7, 2016 at 1:05pm PDT, Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. CO Monthly giving provides the resources to sustain long-term campaigns that permanently protect our most precious resources. Estes Park is the most popular lodging option for Rocky Mountain visitors. Because whats better than food? R ocky Mountain National Park is well-known for its hiking trails, and with good reason. Day 1 - Get settled and explore Historic Downtown Boulder. The Smokies is home to many waterfalls, but sometimes trekking to a waterfall can be crowded. 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. Go Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing, 15 Great Hikes 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. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You might tempted to lunch near iconic spots like Old Faithful or Canyon Village, but we recommend skipping the crowds and toting your sandwiches to the Gardner River, just three miles south of the parks north entrance. PRO TRAVEL TIP: Avalanches are a possibility in the winter months. While the water at the lake is mostly . 3.6 miles, easy to moderate. Old Fall River Road | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Bear Lake This is the shortest, most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Consider this a fail-safe formula for a good day: Pack a meal, round up favorite people, find a pretty spot, spread out a blanket, then relax and enjoy your food surrounded by nature and fresh air. 500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517 | 970-577-9900, Colorado State Special District Records Management. 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. 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. Crowds can linger into autumn, as the leaves change color and pleasant weather continues to attract hikers. By mid-morning, parking areas are often full. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. In total, they cover about 14.5 million acres of open space. Get your camera ready for these top picture-worthy spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. Drive Time: 1.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops at overlooks. Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park 1. Reservationswill go on sale at 10 a.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Monday, May 2. From the Glacier Gorge parking lot, is a mostly uphill walk to get to Alberta Falls, but it is not too strenuous. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. Be a champion for the environment and fight for everything we hold dear. Dream Lake Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. Best Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park, 15 Best Things to Do at Grand Teton National Park, White Rim Road: The Ultimate Adventure in Canyonlands National Park, 5 Reasons Why Death Valley Should Be the Next National Park You Visit, Devils Garden Trail: The Best Hike in Arches National Park, 16 Best Things to Do in Denali National Park, Complete List of the US National Parks (+ FREE Printable Checklist), The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary, One Perfect Day in Rocky Mountain National Park, Complete Guide to the Twin Sisters Peak Trail, RMNP, 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The strenuous part of the Rocky Mountain National Park safari starts here. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. Rocky offers places for family fun, adventure, solitude, recreation, and countless other pursuits. View from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Related Read: 11 Beautiful National Forests in Colorado for Outdoor Recreation 1. Nymph, Dream & Emerald Lakes. * 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. This photo was taken on the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. The entire hike is less than a mile in length, making it great for all ages and ability levels. Bye-Bye, Trapping on Public Land in New Mexico, Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights. Cresting just over 12,000 feet, it is the highest through paved highway in the nation, and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. How crowded does Rocky Mountain National Park get? Here is a map of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National 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. It's home to over 350 miles of hiking trails and a huge array of peaks and rock formations that entice rock climbers from around the globe. In the fall, the park lights up with a brilliant color of mostly yellowed aspens and a few spots of orange and red. For much of the hike you are walking along the Continental Divide. Yes, another lake is on the list, but we would be remised to leave Sprague Lake off the list. 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. Between the end of May through early October, you must reserve a permit to visit the park. The absolute best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Its a flat, beautiful, easy walk in the parkliterally. 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 There's over 300 miles of them, dotted with wildflowers and offering thrilling alpine scenery. The latter is especially crucial in Zion, where summer temperatures typically top 100 degrees. Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is located in Northern Colorado and is about an hour outside of Denver. Interesting Facts about Rocky Mountain National Park, Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Get more information, and see many more photos, in our post, Map of Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Rocky Mountain National Park Boondocking Spots - 12 Miles From Monument Entrance: Coyote Hill Road. Rocky Mountain National Park appears in our Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series as a great park to visit in February, May, June, September, and October. It is a famous route to explore Rocky Mountain National Park and is a perfect spot for bird watching, hiking, and camping. Julie Last updated: November 21, 2022 United States 19 Comments. Prices & Photos. One of the best places to see inside Rocky Mountain National Park is the tundra ecosystem, which is the land above the trees. At this viewpoint, you will be standing at 11,716 feet and have panoramic views of Longs Peak, Stones Peak, Hayden Gorge, and Gorge Lakes. I highly recommend this particular residence. Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. Here is a list of some of the best trails in RMNP, starting with short, easy hikes and ending with longer, full day (and very worthwhile!!) 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