For more information about what to do in Estes Park, including where to stay and where to eat, read our Guide to Estes Park. Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Stanley Hotel - Estes Park, Colorado. There are no fire grates here, however portable grills are permitted. CO 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. Rocky Mountain National Park features plenty of fascinating spots to visit and explore. The path and picnic area are wheelchair-accessible, as is the nearby backcountry campground. One week was perfect for us. 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. 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. We spent one wonderful week in Rocky Mountain National Park in July. 10.4 miles, strenuous. It is a must-go destination if one is exploring Rocky Mountain, National Park. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. When looking for picture-perfect lodging near in Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts. Access:Strenuous hiking. Just be aware that this is also the busiest time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. This hike has a little bit of everythingwaterfalls, alpine lakes, high mountain views, and fun river and stream crossings. Day 1 - Get settled and explore Historic Downtown Boulder. A few great hikes start and end along this road. Now What? Scenic Drives Hallett Peak. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking and is always overcrowded. 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. Some visitors complain of noise and hot temperatures in the summer (there is no air conditioning). Using the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, take the 3.5-mile round-trip hike to Gem Lake, where the lake is formed by trapped snowmelt and rainwater that has collected in a basin that is surrounded by the large granite cliff walls that give this destination its distinctive look. Estes Park 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. Be sure to check which visitor centers are open during your stay. Sky Pond is one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. Picnics - Sprague Lake, Hallowell Park, Fern Lake Trail Ridge Road This road passes east to west over the top of the range at 12,000 feet above sea level. Best Hikes Rocky Mountain National Park. The Desert Watchtower rests on the south rim of the Grand Canyon, at an elevation of 7,500 feet. Climbing steadily through the forest, the hiking trail leads visitors to an open alpine basin underneath 12,889-foot Mount Ida. Best tip to help: plan ahead. Plan ahead before you get hungry! 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. Located at Rocky Mountain National Park's west entrance, Gran Lake is accessible any time of the year and offers recreational opportunities to travelers. Then move up to the higher hikes, such as Sky Pond, Chasm Lake, Hallett Peak, and Longs Peak. 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. COLORADO ITINERARY: With 10 days in Colorado, road trip to all four national parks (Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Mesa Verde), linking them together with some very scenic drives. I highly recommend this particular residence. Any picnicking which interferes with overnight campers is prohibited at all times. NEXT: These 10 National Parks In Kenya Will Have You Book a Flight. rocky Mountain national park wedding Permit Tips. Because of its steep grade and tight curves, there is a length limit for vehicles. It's a fantastic place for your next RV getaway. Indian Peaks Wilderness is forest land that can be found in Rocky Mountain National Parks southern side, in Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests. Rocky Mountain National Park officially became a national park on January 26, 1915. Dog-friendly lodging can be . In 2021, 4.4 million people visited Rocky Mountain National Park, ranking it 5th by the number of visitors. 3.6 miles, easy to moderate. This trail is not paved (its a gravel trail for most of its length) but it is considered handicap accessible. It's popular among both fly fishers and grazing elk. Be sure to take a scenic drive during your visit. Bear Lake at Rocky mountain As a true classic, Bear Lake is a popular stop for many visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. A 6,800-acre valley ringed by the Smoky Mountains,Cades Cove draws visitors in with its lush vistas, and with its reputation as the best place to spy black bears in the countrys most visited national park. Moraine Park is one of the best photo spots in Rocky Mountain National Park, because it has a little of everythingmountains, valleys, rivers, trees, even some wildlife if you're lucky! This photo was taken on the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. As a true classic, Bear Lake is a popular stop for many visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. For backpackersseeking more solitude and a calf-burning workout head 7 miles up the East Inlet Trail to Lake Verna. The latter is probably the best way to enjoy the destination as it takes guests right where the action is. 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. This loop trail is 0.7 miles in length and can be busy at times. Learn more about the US National Parks in our Guide to the National Parks. A post shared by Rocky Mountain National Park (@rockynps) on Sep 7, 2016 at 1:05pm PDT, Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike itself is relatively easy but follows uneven terrain and rock so take caution with small children and older folks. 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. Of all the waterfalls found in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls is the most accessible and famous one. This destination features alpine forests, running streams, and clear waters. 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. If you want full access to the park, which includes driving Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road, plan your visit for the summer and early fall, when these roads are typically open. Where can you find easy access to 600 miles of mountain biking trails just 90 minutes from Denver? In 1974, the property was purchased by The Nature Conservancy and then became part of the national park. Get more information, and see many more photos, in our post15 Great Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are multiple different places where you can have your ceremony here, from the flat and grassy meadow to the more rocky hills, so you have lots of options for your backdrop. There are two different types of timed entry permits. Be sure to check the road conditions for what is open during your visit. Just a lovely, lovely, thorough guide to the Park and area. Less than 50 Colorado mountains have glaciers and Longs Peak is one of them. It is a perfect stopping point for a break before travelers start hiking the Andrews Glacier. Take some time to set up a picnic and take in the picturesque of the lake and the waterfalls as you enjoy the varied landscape of the avalanche creek and forest. Rocky Mountain National Park draws many tourists among America's most famous national parks. But even with a week here, there are still a lot of hikes left on our to-do 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. For an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime, these attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park are worth exploring. This is a great time to explore Rocky Mountain National Park crowd-free and try out snowshoeing. Covering about 5.3-kilometer length, Glacier Gorge Trail takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. PRO TRAVEL TIP: Because of the parks high altitude, you will need to take a few days to acclimate to the altitude, if you come from a lower elevation. This hike is one of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Bye-Bye, Trapping on Public Land in New Mexico, Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights. Try Nurturing Everyday Awe.. Yes, thats how beautiful it is. Set your long exposure on your camera to capture the cascading falls of Alberta Falls. 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 permit is in effect from 9 am to 3 pm. 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. 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. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning, especially when the alpenglow reflects off the 12,000-foot Mount Craig that sits on the horizon in Rocky Mountain National Park. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. Visitors can engage in scenic driving and discover the stunning sightings around these two forests. The homesteads at Homestead Meadows are a relic to a lost time. Many of the park trails are accessible by snowshoe. Drive Time: 1.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops at overlooks. Chasm Lake Trail is 15.1 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 793 meters hence rated as difficult. 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. Surrounded by forest and crowned by a distant yet imposing granite wall, Lake Verna's jewel-like surface isan unparalleled scenic reward after a challenging hike. Its 10 miles long and tops out at almost 13,000 feet, so its a tough hike, but the views are incredible. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park. Aspenglen, Moraine Park, and Glacier Basin are the most popular campgrounds and these get reserved well in advance. Meander to Zions less crowded northern end to discover Koloba network of burnt orange, 2,000-foot box canyons. This is a must-do hike for avid hikers. Odessa Lake & Fern Lake. On an early morning in July, it was only 34 degrees at the Alpine Visitor Center during our visit. After your picnic, head out for a hike on the Summerland Park trail. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view. There are plenty of places throughout the park where this spectacular display can be admired. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view. Longs Peak and Timber Creek Campgrounds are easier to get reservations. This very highly rated property offers two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to six people. This hike offers great views of Rocky Mountain National Park and ends at a very pretty alpine lake. Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (stock photo/TheSmokies.com) 2. View from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you want to stay in the park, you will be limited to campgrounds. Cascade Ponds might just be one of the best Banff picnic spots. She has written travel articles on destinations across Africa and beyond. Because whats better than food? Each daily reservation costs $2 per vehicle, which is in addition to the $25 daily entrance fee or $35 weekly entrance fee per vehicle. 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. Note: The trailhead is in the park, but the path leaves the park boundaries and enters National Forest land in short order. Hike 9 miles round-trip to a spectacular alpine lake with close-up views of Longs Peak. 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. Near the Alpine Visitor Center, this overlook provides sweeping views of the Gore Range and Never Summer Range. Visitors should therefore plan on exploring this beautiful lake early, especially for epic people free pictures of the magnificent landscapes! There are recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing travelers can experience year-round. It includes Bear Lake Road and the hikes that start here (Bear Lake, Emerald and Dream Lakes, Alberta Falls, Sky Pond, Hallett Peak, and Sprague Lake). Upper Beaver Meadows(10 tables) - turn left off US Highway 36, almost two miles west of the Beaver Meadows (southeast) Entrance. $35 for a weekly pass. 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. Julie Last updated: November 21, 2022 United States 19 Comments. The state is sprinkled with city, state and national parks, making it a mecca for picnic locations. However, there are plenty of pull-offs to allow vehicles to pass. Return to Boulder and enjoy the "Foodiest Town" in America. 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. Nestled high in the Sierra between Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley, this pristine glacial lake is largest in the parks front country. 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. This is our favorite short, easy hike in the park. Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. In the spring, warmer temperatures melt the snow and visitation picks up. But the fact youre in the front country doesnt mean you have to sacrifice scenery. This hike is located next to the Alpine Visitor Center. If you want low crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May. The Glacier Basin Campground consists of 150 single-occupancy campsites with 13 group sites. 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. Like Bear Lake, it is an easy hike to get here. If you have any questions about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park, let us know in the comment section below. By mid-morning, parking areas are often full. ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK:Check out our Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide forimportant travel planning tips, sample itineraries, advice on when to go, where to stay, and more. In fact, there is even a picnic area where you can relax and enjoy the sites. It is possible to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. However, this property gets rave reviews. 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. 1000 US Hwy 36 Step inside, and youll find murals by the Hopi artist Frank Kabotie. The campground is located at 9,500 feet or 2,896 meters. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. For spectacular high mountain scenery, Trail Ridge Road is hard to beat. Estes Park is the most popular lodging option for Rocky Mountain visitors. Each residence is individually managed, so some are better than others. Snow can linger on the higher trails all of the way into July, depending on snowfall levels for that year. The Smokies is home to many waterfalls, but sometimes trekking to a waterfall can be crowded. Spruce Flats Falls. 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!!) With Hallett Peak stacked in the background, this alpine lake is favorite in the summer and winter when you can ice skate around the 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. 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). 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. 970 586-1206 If you want to stand on the Continental Divide, pull in to the Milner Pass overlook. Drive down to Granby if you are staying on the west side of the park near Grand Lake. Smoky mountains National Park and area views are incredible a lifetime, these in! And picnic area where you can stay in the front country view or a well-decorated.. 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