Trip at a Glance: Day 1 - Start with a scenic road trip and then hike the Wild Basin trail (1-6 mile options), drive Trail Ridge Road, and end with a 2.5 hour hike to Moraine Lake with chances to see wildlife.Spend the night in Estes Park. In 2021, Rocky Mountain National Park was the 5th most visited national park in the United States, with 4.4 million visitors. 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). We spent one wonderful week in Rocky Mountain National Park in July. 12 Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park As one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Alberta Falls Trail is a must on any itinerary. Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved through road, not only in Colorado, but also in the entire US national park system. But it is also a great place to explore in the winter months. 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. Visit recreation.gov to make your reservation. 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. It features a lake and is best used between June and October for activities like hiking horseback riding, rock climbing, and bird watching. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Nymph Lake is a beautiful water body surrounded by stunning mountain views. Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. The views from the overlooks are stunning. Bow River Photography Place- Canmore Village. After your picnic, head out for ahike on theSummerland Park trail. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Nymph Lake is a beautiful water body surrounded by stunning mountain views. Experience life above treeline at the Gore Range Overlook. Access: Easy hiking. However, this property gets rave reviews. Several backcountry camping sites are available (inquire with the National Park Service) making this a wonderful place to witness a summertime meteor shower. gift shops. The permit is in effect from 9 am to 3 pm. Twin Sisters. If you want to stay in the park, you will be limited to campgrounds. It's closed from October through May to through traffic over the pass due to snow. City Slickers: Cheesman Park, Denver. Visitors to the park can tour the property to learn more about the life of Colorado homesteaders. 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. Join today. If you want to stand on the Continental Divide, pull in to the Milner Pass overlook. Sierra Club 2023.The Sierra Club Seal is a registered copyright, service mark, and trademark of the Sierra Club. South Saint Vrain Ave/Hwy 7. Set your long exposure on your camera to capture the cascading falls of Alberta Falls. 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 whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. 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. During this time, you get to enjoy panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park. Created by Roadtrippers - March 28th 2016. Keep the permit on you at all times when in the park. Sky Pond | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Bear Lake This is the shortest, most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Just a lovely, lovely, thorough guide to the Park and area. This has been implemented to limit crowds at the busiest sections of the park during the peak visitation season (the summer months). Meander to Zions less crowded northern end to discover Koloba network of burnt orange, 2,000-foot box canyons. 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. If you do not have a reservation, you will not be allowed to enter the park. This is definitely one of my favourite Photography Spots in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. What makes Sprague Lake so great is there is a paved, accessible walking path so everyone can enjoy the trail. Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. Click herefor more information. MESA VERDE: Learn about the best things to do and how to plan your visit in our Guide to Mesa Verde National Park. Reservationswill go on sale at 10 a.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Monday, May 2. Deer Mountain is one of the easiest mountain summit hikes in the park. The hike itself is relatively easy but follows uneven terrain and rock so take caution with small children and older folks. Arch Rock Campground. Not only is this a scenic walk around a lake, but this also can be a learning experience. Al fresco food with a view, of course. During the busy summer months, a free shuttle service is provided by the national park service. Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. Hallett Peak. Bear Lake at Rocky mountain As a true classic, Bear Lake is a popular stop for many visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. 3. West Side of Yellowstone: Gibbon Meadows, Gibbon Falls area. Along the way, there is a good chance that you will spot bighorn sheep and elk. It is a must-go destination if one is exploring Rocky Mountain, National Park. Most visitors arrive during the summer and on fall weekends. Hit the trails on horseback. Can We Address the Climate Crisis by Degrowing? This hike starts at Bear Lake and ends on the summit of Hallett Peak. There are lots of convenient picnic areas in the Park, along the north fork of the Big Thompson River, on the shore of Lake Estes, along the stretch of US 34 that follows the Big Thompson River, and in town along the RiverWalk. All distances are round-trip. 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). You will LOVE each of the spots below! The alpine tundra encompasses the highest areas of the park. The region is cold, dry and the growing season is small. 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). It is located just outside of Estes Park, on the south side, an excellent location for driving into the park. This gives you enough time to acclimate to the higher elevation (very important if you live at a low elevation) before tackling some of the higher, tougher hikes (such as Mount Ida, Hallett Peak, or Longs Peak). 14 Great Sand Dunes National Park Boondocking (Updated 2022) 7.5 to 10 miles, depending on the route you choose. The Bear Lake trail is handicap accessible and offers something for everyone. Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. Expect congestion on roads, in parking areas, and along popular trails. 80517. These 14 best picnic spots in Colorado are just waiting for a and basket full of food. 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. Home to the headwaters of the mighty Colorado River, the Kawuneeche Valley is a great place to enjoy the quieter west side of Rocky. There is no lodging inside Rocky Mountain National Park. 3.4 miles, moderate. Day 1 - Get settled and explore Historic Downtown Boulder. With lofty mountain peaks, hiking trails that lead to alpine lakes and waterfalls, wildlife, and a scenic drive along one of the highest roads in the USA, Rocky Mountain National Park is a joy to explore. This destination features alpine forests, running streams, and clear waters. BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON NATIONAL PARK: Check out our Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Travel Guide forimportant travel planning tips, sample itineraries, advice on when to go, where to stay, and more. PRO TRAVEL TIP: Avalanches are a possibility in the winter months. Get updates on road conditions on the national park service website. The Trail provides incredibly beautiful natural scenery, waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. However, at 265,000 acres in size, the park also harbors thousands of quiet, off-the-beaten path places that most visitors don't know about. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking - and is always overcrowded. The state is sprinkled with city, state and national parks, making it a mecca for picnic locations. The hike to Odessa Lake and onward to Fern Lake is a relatively low-traffic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. Rocky Mountain National Park's lakes make for wonderful hikes, amazing photo ops, and the perfect place to stop for a waterfront picnic. Dog-friendly lodging can be . Located along Highway 7 just south of Estes Park, beautiful Lily Lake features stunning views of Longs Peak, picnic tables, a fishing pier, and a short accessible family-friendly trail around the lake. But even with a week here, there are still a lot of hikes left on our to-do list. Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. Hiking the many trails, while exploring the lakes and beautiful waterfalls found here gives the best Rocky Mountain National Park safari experience. 970 586-1206 Need a 2023 New Years Resolution? WorldMark Estes Park. With fascinating natural wonders, including beautiful lakes and forests, here are the top attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park. Most of these areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and feature open grassy areas perfect for laying out a blanket. The Puma Population in Patagonia Is Booming. Hike one of several trails in the area, or bike or drive the 11-mile road that loops the cove, before lunching at the picnic tables at its eastern end. I highly recommend this particular residence. Hotel rooms are not permitted within Rocky Mountain National Park. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. Of the many beautiful byways, Peak to Peak is among Colorados most stunning drives. R ocky Mountain National Park is well-known for its hiking trails, and with good reason. This is the hotel that inspired Stephen King to write The Shining. 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. Where portable grills are allowed, the used charcoal and ash must be completely extinguished and disposed of in trash receptacle. Photo Credit: Kimon Berlin (Flickr) Your email address will not be published. The Kawuneeche Valley is also the best place to look for moose in the park. , 3. Because whats better than food? Because of its steep grade and tight curves, there is a length limit for vehicles. Longs Peak. Take a Leisurely Stroll by Boulder Brook. Once the snow arrives, usually by mid to late autumn, crowds begin to diminish. 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. 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. Carpool and/or use the free park shuttles to/from the Bear Lake corridor. Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary. A group picnic area is available at Lily Lake, by reservation only and for a fee. Lindsey Botts. The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins. Be sure to check the road conditions for what is open during your visit. Located at Rocky Mountain National Park's west entrance, Gran Lake is accessible any time of the year and offers recreational opportunities to travelers. Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. The 14-mile Mount Evans Scenic Byway leads to the 14,264-foot high summit of Mount Evans. Once at the waterfall, you can explore the short trails along Glacier Creek to find your favorite view of the waterfall. Estes Park There are 68 picnic spots, as well as a short 0.8 hike that's perfect for the whole family to enjoy! there are always elk. If you want low crowds and dont mind cold temperatures and snow, plan your visit from November through May. 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. 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. The Stanley Hotel - Estes Park, Colorado. Climbing steadily through the forest, the hiking trail leads visitors to an open alpine basin underneath 12,889-foot Mount Ida. It's no surprise, then that it is one of the most popular spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. Estes Park is the most popular lodging option for Rocky Mountain visitors. Our mountain-themed accommodations are the perfect complement to your Rocky Mountain getaway! Try Nurturing Everyday Awe.. A post shared by GrandCanyonNPS (@grandcanyonnps) on Jan 7, 2015 at 3:27pm PST, Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon National Park. Gem Lake. This spot makes the list for two reasons: 1.) Important: Trail Ridge Road is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October. Monthly giving provides the resources to sustain long-term campaigns that permanently protect our most precious resources. Odessa Lake & Fern Lake. 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 plenty of naturally beautiful places for a picnic, making this a must-see place in Motor City. Sierra Club and "Explore, enjoy and protect the planet" are registered trademarks of the Sierra Club. The path to the Upper Colorado River starts in Rocky Mountain National Park towards Utah. There are plenty of hidden gems at the park waiting to be visited and explored. 27. Approximately one-third of Rocky Mountain National Park is alpine tundra. Backpack into the heart of the park and sleep under the stars. 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 Stanley Hotel. This is the shortest, most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is just a half-mile long, and gains only 100 feet of elevation, but it offers expansive views of the formations, particularly of Shuntavi Butte, pictured here. 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. There are sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet and many of these top out over 13,000 feet. Due to its large size and abundance of hiking trails, you need at least a few days to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. 2. Cascade Ponds might just be one of the best Banff picnic spots. 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. 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. A post shared by Rocky Mountain National Park (@rockynps) on Sep 7, 2016 at 1:05pm PDT, Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4 miles Elevation Gain: 977 feet Hermit Park is an Open Space located right outside Estes Park. Sara Broers 2. A post shared by Great Smoky Mountains NP (@greatsmokynps) on Sep 20, 2016 at 4:16pm PDT, Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Be sure to check which visitor centers are open during your stay. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. From the peak you will have a great view over Moraine Park and out to Longs Peak. Whoops! 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