Rocky Mountain National Park is beautiful in the spring with slopes of wildflowers and in the winter with a blanket of pure, white snow. Come here to hike, look for wildlife, see the Continental Divide and appreciate nature.
The park has more than 300 miles (480 kilometers) of hiking paths classified as lake, waterfall and summit trails. Pick up a park hiking guide for trail suggestions that meet your interests and abilities. The popular 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) Bear Lake loop is a flat interpretive nature trail while Trail Ridge Road reaches an elevation of more than 12,000 feet (3,600 meters). Walk along some of the nearly 30 miles (18 kilometers) of the strenuous Continental Divide National Scenic Trail for eastern and western views above the tree line.
Follow normal hiking safety recommendations. Very importantly in this park, be prepared for issues acclimating to the high elevation. Enjoy and photograph the spectacular views and pristine natural settings.
In winter, snowshoe or cross-country ski through the park. Join a ranger-led program to improve your technique while you learn some of the secrets of the region. Hidden Valley is a popular spot for sledding on a former bunny ski slope.
Expect to see wildlife wandering through the park. Moose frequent the Kawuneeche Valley area along the Upper Colorado River. Bighorn sheep visit their namesake Sheep Lakes during the summer. See herds with small lambs in spring. From a safe distance, look for the giant antlers of a bull elk as he guards his large harem.
The park is open year-round. In its six visitor centers, get information, purchase souvenirs, speak to a ranger and even use WiFi. Make reservations for camping in the park or find lodging just outside in Estes Park or Grand Lake.
While Rocky Mountain National Park is less than 80 miles (130 kilometers) northwest of Denver, its peaks are more than 1.3 miles (2 kilometers) higher in the sky. Visit the park for a natural Rocky Mountain high worth singing about. Find affordable adventure for all types of travelers in the inspiring national parks of the U.S.
