ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

What to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the closest National Park to Denver International Airport. With 415 square miles to discover, you will be in constant awe. More than 100 peaks sit over 11,000 feet which makes for breathtaking views no matter where you look. Rocky Mountain National Park is well-known for its wildlife. You will see hawks, deer, and elk no matter what time of year you visit.

Hiking & Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road offers a 360-degree view of the Rockies. Travelers ascend 4,000 feet on this drive. Be prepared for wind and lower temperatures at the peak of the road. It is around 20 to 30 degrees colder at the summit than in town. Keep an eye out on this “scenic wonder road of the world” for pikas, marmots, moose, bighorn sheep, and ptarmigans. Trail Ridge Road is open from Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day.

Forest Canyon Overlook

Forest Canyon Overlook

At this overlook, you will feel on top of the world… because you are. Forest Canyon Overlook sits at 11,716 feet in elevation and has views of Long’s Peak, Hayden Gorge, and the Gorge Lakes. The valley below is the result of a 1,500 feet thick glacier carving its way through the Rocky Mountains. Forest Canyon Overlook is known for its array of wildflowers. We advise that they not be picked so others who are visiting can ooo and ahh at them too!

Alpine Ridge Trail

Alpine Ridge Trail

You can find the trailhead at the top of Trail Ridge Road. This hike is a short .6 miles but is pretty steep. Because of the elevation, it can be chilly on the trail even in the dead of summer. If you are visiting in the spring and early summer, you will be surrounded by beautiful Colorado wildflowers. There is wildlife on the trail too. If you hear squeaks, it is most likely a marmot or a pika.

Deer Mountain

Deer Mountain

Deer Mountain is a hike that will reward you with 360 degrees views of endless peaks. This hike is one of the most popular trails in Rocky Mountain National Park so it is best to get to the trailhead bright and early. Because this hike is mellow, it is a great hike for the whole family.

Sky Pond Colorado

Sky Pond

The Sky Pond hike a 9 mile out and back hike that is quite strenuous. You can start the hike at the Glacier Gorge Trail Head or the Bear Lake Trail Head. The Bear Lake parking lot fills up quickly so you will want to get there early or use the free park shuttle. The hike is very rewarding with various other destinations along the way.

Bear Lake Colorado

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a great spot for lunch in the park. The hike to the lake is only .8 miles round trip. This area is wildly popular and the parking lot fills up early. If the lot is full, there is a free park shuttle available. The ease of the hike allows everyone to enjoy the scenery.

Gem Lake

Gem Lake

Start your trek to Gem Lake at the Lumpy Ridge Trail Head. The trail is moderately difficult and is 3.5 miles long. On your hike, you will see views of Long’s Peak, Estes Park, Mt. Meeker, and the other mountains in the Continental Divide.

Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls

To get to Alberta Falls, you will start at the Glacier Gorge Trail Head and head up an easy hike that is suitable for everyone. The total mileage of the hike is 1.6 miles. The best time to check out Alberta Falls is between May and October. If you would like a more challenging hike, you can continue on the trail up to Sky Pond.

Moraine Park Colorado

Moraine Park

Moraine Park Campground is a beautiful campground in Rocky Mountain National Park. Their pull-through campsites are perfect places to park and camp for the night. Reserve a campsite below.

COLORADO TRAVEL MENU

ROCKY MOUNTAIN         MESA VERDE         BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON         GREAT SAND DUNES

Getting Here

Wherever your journey takes you, there’s a MileMarker Van to get you there. Our vehicles are built for the Colorado roads and designed to keep you and all your passengers safe and comfortable along the way. Book the best van for your Colorado travels today.

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