National Park Guide

Rocky Mountain National Park

Colorado, US

Where alpine tundra meets towering peaks and pristine mountain lakes in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

265,807
Acres
355
Trails
1915
Established
4.35 million
Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season
Year-round (Trail Ridge Road closes late October-May)
Entrance Fee
$30 per vehicle
Nearest Airport
Denver International Airport (DEN), 2 hours
Best Months
June, July, August, September, October

Highlights

  • Driving Trail Ridge Road through alpine tundra above treeline
  • Summiting Longs Peak via the Keyhole Route
  • Elk bugling during the fall rut in Horseshoe Park
  • Hiking to Sky Pond through the Loch Vale
  • Sunrise at Bear Lake with Hallett Peak reflections
  • Snowshoeing to Emerald Lake in winter

Park Map

Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest

About Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park straddles the Continental Divide in north-central Colorado, protecting 265,807 acres of alpine tundra, subalpine forests, and montane meadows. Trail Ridge Road climbs above 12,000 feet, making it one of the highest paved roads in the United States. The park's 77 peaks above 12,000 feet, 150 lakes, and abundant elk herds make it one of the most accessible high-alpine experiences in North America.

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Where to Stay

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Stanley Hotel

$$$

The legendary 1909 Georgian Colonial hotel that inspired Stephen King's "The Shining," perched on a hillside overlooking Estes Park with panoramic views of the Continental Divide and Longs Peak.

5 miles from Beaver Meadows Entrance$300-500/night
Check on Hotels.com

Ridgeline Hotel Estes Park

$$

A modern hotel nestled along the Fall River on the edge of Estes Park, offering contemporary rooms with mountain views, an indoor pool, and direct access to the park's Fall River entrance.

3 miles from Fall River Entrance$180-310/night
Check on Hotels.com

YMCA of the Rockies

$

A sprawling family retreat center on 860 acres bordering the national park, offering lodge rooms and cabins with a wide range of outdoor programs and activities for all ages.

2 miles from park boundary$100-180/night
Check on Hotels.com

Park Details

Highest Point
Longs Peak, 14,259 ft
Camping
Available
Wilderness Areas
Yes
Pet Friendly
Limited (developed areas only)
Region
Rocky Mountain
Established
1915