Trail Ridge Road is actually far less scary than many of Colorado's famous mountain roads. Since you found it terrifying, you need to avoid driving Pike's Peak, Mount Evans, Independence Pass, and the Million Dollar Highway.
The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is from June to September when the snow is (mostly) melted and the hiking trails and attractions are accessible.
Starting June 4th, 2020 visitors heading to RMNP will be required to reserve an entrance time prior to entering the park. Reservations are needed to access the main entrance, the Adams Falls trail, North Inlet trail and the East Shore trail. Reservations are NOT required before 6am or after 5pm.
Rocky Mountain National Park doesn't have any lodges inside the park. However, there is a cabin resort just outside the park's West Entrance. It's surrounded by the park on three sides and overlooks Grand Lake, a stunning alpine lake, on the other side.
An entrance fee is charged to get into Rocky Mountain National Park. Currently there is a $35 per vehicle entrance fee which is good for 7 days. The park has a “Day Use Pass” valid for one day only and costs $25. Also, if you walk in or take the Shuttle Bus, a fee of $20 per person is charged, good for 7 days.
Rocky Mountain National Park is unique in that it offers a Day Pass. Rocky will continue to offer the Day Pass, it will increase from $20 to $25. The Seven-Day Vehicle Pass will increase from $30 to $35, the Seven-Day Motorcycle Pass will increase from $25 to $30. The park's Annual Pass will increase from $60 to $70.
Don't Pose on a Mountain Peak in the Park in the Afternoon. Afternoons are susceptible to lightning strikes at high elevations. Lightning is a threat at Rocky Mountain National Park's high elevations during the afternoon. Numerous injuries and deaths have occurred in the park from lightning strikes.
Hiking SafetyBear bells and pepper spray might be advisable in grizzly country, but they are not a necessity in Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park. The likelihood of a black bear attacking a hiker is very rare.
Firearms & WeaponsIt is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearm laws before entering the park. Open carry of handguns and rifles, and transport of the same in vehicles, is permitted.
The possession of UNLOADED weapons and firearms is permitted in the park. Alcohol is permitted in campgrounds and at picnic areas only.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the nation, with elevations from 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet. Sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet high result in world-renowned scenery. The Continental Divide runs north - south through the park, and marks a climatic division.
With towering landscapes that take visitors to new heights, it's no surprise that Rocky Mountain is world-renowned for its gorgeous scenery. At an elevation of 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the highest peak in the park.
Hunting is prohibited in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearm laws before entering the park. Open carry of handguns and rifles, and transport of the same in vehicles, is permitted.
Photo Credit: dionhinchcliffe. Longs Peak is also the only 14er in Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.
The trail follows the shore and steepens up Dream's tumbling inlet to Emerald Lake (1.8 miles : 10,090'). Emerald Lake fills a deep bowl carved by Tyndall Glacier from the eastern flanks of Hallet Peak and Flattop Mountain (12,324').
A timed entry permit or camping reservation is required to enter ALL areas of Rocky Mountain National Park—including Trail Ridge Road (US Hwy 34)—in a private vehicle between the hours of 6 am and 5 pm. Learn more.
Trail Ridge Road is CLOSED for the season to vehciles for through travel. Currently Trail Ridge Road is open to Many Parks Curve on the east side of the park. It is open only to the Grand Lake Entrance on the west side of the park due to area closures related to the East Troublesome Fire.
We officially called the end of Trail Ridge Road for us here, although you can stop at any point that works best for you. You can turn around and go back the way you came or make a big loop through Idaho Springs and Denver, just be aware it will take much longer this way.
Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, although certain roads and facilities may be closed seasonally. Located just a few miles from downtown Grand Lake, the Kawuneeche Visitor Center is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, year-round, closing only on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting. Summer and fall are the busiest seasons in the park. Parking lots can be full and roads congested. Arriving early or coming into the park in the late afternoon can help.
8 Epic Things to Do in Estes Park
- Take a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway.
- Take a kayak out and relax on Lake Estes.
- Visit the Stanley Hotel… if you dare.
- Rent a Jeep and go trailing.
- Grab some grub at The Wapiti Pub.
- Enjoy a sweet treat at Purple Mountain Taffy Company.
- Leisurely stroll and shop at Downtown Estes Park.
- Visit Rocky Mountain National Park.
