Kruger Rock Trail Photo: Brendan Bombaci Why you should go: What better way to find some solitude than in a place called Hermit Park? Hikers can see ancient cabins, old foundations and read interpretive signage. Stick to the meadows and flatter land in Moraine Park for meadow views, the Big Thompson River, and one of the best places to spot a herd of elk. Of the many beautiful byways, Peak to Peak is among Colorados most stunning drives. A post shared by Great Smoky Mountains NP (@greatsmokynps) on Sep 20, 2016 at 4:16pm PDT, Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountain National Park. . West Side of Yellowstone: Gibbon Meadows, Gibbon Falls area. Also, Grand Lake is a perfect spot for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park as the park is located just outside Grand Lake-town. there are always elk. Our mountain-themed accommodations are the perfect complement to your Rocky Mountain getaway! Hike 9 miles round-trip to a spectacular alpine lake with close-up views of Longs Peak. Picnic areas speckle the national park and vary widely in types and sizes. Odessa Lake & Fern Lake. The permit is in effect from 5 am to 6 pm. Longs Peak and Timber Creek Campgrounds are easier to get reservations. This is one of the best overlooks located along Trail Ridge Road. Camping out in the many beautiful campgrounds nestled in these forests provides a fascinating travel experience. Scenic overlooks abound and the alpine tundra will take your breath away. There are multiple different places where you can have your ceremony here, from the flat and grassy meadow to the more rocky hills, so you have lots of options for your backdrop. When looking for picture-perfect lodging near in Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts. ), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. If you want to stay in the park, you will be limited to campgrounds. gift shops. Journey higher to the subalpine region (9,000 to 11,000 feet), into the evergreen forests and mountain lakes. Drive Time: 1.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops at overlooks. In this post, learn about the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park with tips on how to have the best experience. Most of these areas neaar conveniently accessible by vehicle, and feature open grassy areas perfect for laying out a blanket. Known for its peaks, alpine lakes, and tundra landscapes, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is one of America's favorite national parks. Cultivating this daily habit could change your world for the better, Supporters of degrowth emphasize the principles of the slow movement, Mary Katherine Ray helped outlaw traps in her state, Adapted from an interview by The peak was named in honor of Stephen Harriman Long, an explorer, and features one Mills Glacier, the one surviving glacier situated just above Lake Chasm at the Eastern Faces base. Click herefor more information. 970 586-1206 Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. For a quiet picnic among aspens and pine, head to Summerland Park just northeast of Grand Lake. Bow River Photography Place- Canmore Village. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Nymph Lake is a beautiful water body surrounded by stunning mountain views. Estes Park is the most popular lodging option for Rocky Mountain visitors. Take-out is available from many local restaurants (see our Dining Page for suggestions). Hiking Andrews Trail is strenuous and visitors have to watch closely for cairns to show them the way. 3.7 miles one way, roughly 600 feet in elevation gain. The Stanley Hotel offers a wide range of rooms. Lindsey Botts. Chasm Lake. Odessa & Fern Lakes Hike. Several backcountry camping sites are available (inquire with the National Park Service) making this a wonderful place to witness a summertime meteor shower. Alberta Falls Trail. The 3.3-mile loop begins as a wide dirt road before headinginto the forest to become a relatively easy hiking trail running along the Tonahutu Creek and through towering aspens. Hike the 14,259-foot peak (you'll have to start around 2 a.m. to make it up and back in time before the afternoon lightning storms tend to roll around), or ogle its awesome cliffs from Chasm Lake (an 8.4 mile hike, one way). Chasm Falls | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking and is always overcrowded. If you have no experience snowshoeing, consider joining a free ranger-led program. Continental Divide Trail to Mt Ida | Best Things to do 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. Of course, the river is known for being a perfect recreational spot with many other activities visitors can enjoy - fishing and floating, available year-round. But the fact youre in the front country doesnt mean you have to sacrifice scenery. Laurel Falls Possibly the most popular falls in the park, the 80-foot high Laurel Falls is located 1.3 miles down the trail, which is rated moderately difficult. This area also offers 30 fire grates, allows portable grills and has vault toilets. Any picnicking which interferes with overnight campers is prohibited at all times. 2. From the Glacier Gorge parking lot, is a mostly uphill walk to get to Alberta Falls, but it is not too strenuous. Chasm Lake Trail is 15.1 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 793 meters hence rated as difficult. 3.4 miles, moderate. You can stay in a cozy cabin with a river view or a well-decorated suite. Lookouts. With numerous peaks over 12,000 feet, 20 of these which sit above 13,000 feet, this park attracts climbers from around the world. Near the Alpine Visitor Center, this overlook provides sweeping views of the Gore Range and Never Summer Range. There are no fire grates here, however portable grills are permitted. Where portable grills are allowed, the used charcoal and ash must be completely extinguished and disposed of in trash receptacle. It starts in Horseshoe Park and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center. Your email address will not be published. Longs Peak. For updated information on fire restrictions visit ourFire Informationpage. The Alberta Falls Trail, like many other hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, follows a creek (in this case, Glacier Creek). The busiest spot in this wilderness area is Brainard Lake, home to many campgrounds, making it an ideal destination and hiking. Rocky Mountain National Park's lakes make for wonderful hikes, amazing photo ops, and the perfect place to stop for a waterfront picnic. 80517. PRO TRAVEL TIP: Avalanches are a possibility in the winter months. At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park and stands among Colorado's highest peaks. 80517. Now that is picture perfect! 8. Drew Higgins is an environmental educator and freelance writer based in Jackson, Wyoming. Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved through road, not only in Colorado, but also in the entire US national park system. This has been implemented to limit crowds at the busiest sections of the park during the peak visitation season (the summer months). Its nearby neighbors of Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Dream Lake get a lot more visitors, so if you are looking for a relatively uncrowded trail with the chance to visit multiple alpine lakes, this is a nice hike to consider. The hike to Odessa Lake and onward to Fern Lake is a relatively low-traffic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. Be sure to check the road conditions for what is open during your visit. Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver 258 Full-day Tours from $139.00 per adult Explore & Photograph Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park with a Pro 1 Adventure Tours from $240.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Private and Personalized Three Hour Morning Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park 30 Bus Tours from With so many incredible locations I'll go over the best places to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park and go over some logistics and tips! A few minutes into the trail, youll find tables flaked by shady trees. it's flat and easily accessible; 2.) CO Nicky's Resort. From December through May, when much of the park is covered in snow, you can explore the park by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Adams Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park. Sprague Lake (27 tables) - located along Bear Lake Road. A post shared by Great Smoky Mountains NP (@greatsmokynps), A post shared by GrandCanyonNPS (@grandcanyonnps), A post shared by Rocky Mountain National Park (@rockynps), A post shared by Yosemite National Park (@yosemitenps), A post shared by Yellowstone National Park (@yellowstonenps), A post shared by Zion National Park (@zionnps), These Scientists Want You to Become a Pika Patroller. 14 Great Sand Dunes National Park Boondocking (Updated 2022) Sprague Lake(27 tables) - located along Bear Lake Road. From a picnic table atBeaver Meadows Visitor Centerto large-scale, outdoor cafeteria-like settings, you can find just the right atmosphere and convenience you seek. 3. Try Nurturing Everyday Awe.. 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). As you climb to it, you may be astonished to learn that the humble creek it follows is actually the Colorado River. 9. 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. Park at the Park and Ride and take the Bear Lake Shuttle to these two trailheads. This destination features alpine forests, running streams, and clear waters. Visitors to the park can tour the property to learn more about the life of Colorado homesteaders. Along the drive, stop at Chasm Falls. Reservationswill go on sale at 10 a.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Monday, May 2. The scenic byway was built by the City of Denver in 1927 as a tourist attraction. 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). Hit the trails on horseback. There are 68 picnic spots, as well as a short 0.8 hike that's perfect for the whole family to enjoy! Visit recreation.gov to make your reservation. Covering about 5.3-kilometer length, Glacier Gorge Trail takes approximately one and a half hours to complete. Hiking to Lulu City an abandoned ghost town is one of the most fascinating activities in the park. From nice and mellow to pure To help you plan a family-friendly winter vacation with confidence,here's a quick guide to the best family-friendly winter activities in our grand corner of For all the reasons to take a skiing or snowboarding lesson, there always seems to be twice as many reasons or rather, excuses 2022 Grand County Colorado Tourism Board. Beware, though: at over 8,000 feet in elevation, the water might be a little brisk. Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary. The park is much less crowded at this time, but Trail Ridge Road is not open and many, if not all, of the hiking trails can be snow covered. Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222. In 1917, John Holzwarth and his family, immigrants from Germany, built a small cabin on this site. If you want to stand on the Continental Divide, pull in to the Milner Pass overlook. As it should be because the park offers a variety of activities like camping, climbing, biking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and hiking. At this time, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are the main things to do in the park. These 14 best picnic spots in Colorado are just waiting for a and basket full of food. Reservations are made online on the recreation.gov website. The historic Old Fall River Road is a scenic 9-mile dirt road that is typically open from early July through late September. Local advice about Rocky Mountain NP's hikes you can't miss. The lowest zone (Montane, from 5,600 to 9,500 feet) encompasses the meadows and the lower slopes of the mountains. Here's how it works. You also can access the park's west side via the park's spectacular Trail Ridge Road, which connects the two sides of the park. If you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park along with other national parks, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 and valid for all of the national parks for one year). 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. With parts of the park soaring up to 14,259 feet above sea level, visitors can enjoy mountain views which are reachable by scenic hiking trails. 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. Rocky offers places for family fun, adventure, solitude, recreation, are situated throughout the park and are a great place to start your park adventure, learn something new, get that burning question answered, or purchase a souvenir in one of the. This hike starts at Bear Lake and ends on the summit of Hallett Peak. Hit the trails on horseback. Most visitors arrive during the summer and on fall weekends. Between the end of May through early October, you must reserve a permit to visit the park. Like a dream, Dream Lake is the true essence of Rocky Mountain National Park. We stayed in a 3-bedroom house, #402, and it was perfect. The most iconic is Longs Peak. The area offers six fire grates, vault toilets and allows the use of portable grills. 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. Rocky is a great place to have a picnic. If you're an early riser, this is a charming photo op at sunrise, when the first rays of dawn light up the east-facing mountains. Access:Strenuous hiking. Yes, that's how beautiful it is. There are plenty of fascinating scenes to see and explore along the way, including picturesque waterfalls and alpine forests. Any picnicking which interferes with overnight campers is prohibited at all times. If you do not have a reservation, you will not be allowed to enter the park. When spring finally rolls around, Denverites flock to this urban oasis known as "Capitol Hill's backyard.". Consider this a fail-safe formula for a good day: Pack a meal, round up favorite people, find a pretty spot, spread out a blanket, then relax and enjoy your food surrounded by nature and fresh air. Make reservations for camping in the park and lodging in the local areas. Chimney Tops Picnic Area The Chimney Tops picnic area, which is open between 3/11 and 11/26, has 68 picnic sites and is our favorite picnic spot in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is one of the most visited national parks in the USA. Al fresco food with a view, of course. Hollowell Park(10 tables) - also located along Bear Lake Road. 2. Climbing steadily through the forest, the hiking trail leads visitors to an open alpine basin underneath 12,889-foot Mount Ida. West-side picnic areas also are available at the Colorado River, the Beaver Ponds, Coyote Valley and additional locations. Spending the day in the park doesn't mean going hungry. This trail eventually leads to the mighty river's headwaters, near Poudre Pass. Tour and hike early and late in the day. Black Canyon Campground. Its a great hike for families and makes a great intro to hiking in the park. 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. There is even a three-bedroom house that can accommodate up to nine people. One of the best places to see inside Rocky Mountain National Park is the tundra ecosystem, which is the land above the trees. One week was perfect for us. Get updates on road conditions on the national park service website. Unfortunately, the area closed in 1991 . 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. 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. Alberta Falls | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls at sunrise | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Activities range from bouldering to easy climbs to multi-day climbs up vertical cliffs. Here, the melting snow makes way for Frisbee throwing, people watching and picnicking in droves. 12 Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park The largest picnic areas on the east (Estes Park) side of RMNP are: Endo Valley (32 tables) - located along Old Fall River Road, about 1.8 miles from the intersection with Highway 34. Hike the 2.5-mile loop around its icy blue waters, and soak in surrounding granite mountains and domes. The Kawuneeche Valley is also the best place to look for moose in the park. Rocky Mountain National Park in Julyon the trail to Emerald and Dream Lakes. Rocky Mountain National Park features plenty of fascinating spots to visit and explore. Visitors should therefore plan on exploring this beautiful lake early, especially for epic people free pictures of the magnificent landscapes! Before you hit the trail, visit the National Park Service website for updates on conditions. Several ecological zones can be seen in the park. At this viewpoint, you will be standing at 11,716 feet and have panoramic views of Longs Peak, Stones Peak, Hayden Gorge, and Gorge Lakes. The Bear Lake trail is handicap accessible and offers something for everyone. ESTES PARK: In our Guide to Estes Park, learn about where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. You can cross the Continental Divide by foot or by driving Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved through road in the national park system. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. Upper Beaver Meadows is one of the most quiet and private place to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park, and one of my personal favorites. This humble technology reduces home emissions. Its a flat, beautiful, easy walk in the parkliterally. Here is a list of some of the best trails in RMNP, starting with short, easy hikes and ending with longer, full day (and very worthwhile!!) Alberta Falls at sunrise | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park 6. Overlooking Moraine Park from Deer Mountain | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. This is one of the best places to see elk without buildings like hotels or visitor centers. Scenic Drives A post shared by Yosemite National Park (@yosemitenps) on Jun 2, 2016 at 9:54am PDT. 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. For more information on planning your time, on how to plan your itinerary, with suggestions from several days up to 1 week. Explore the lakes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Plenty of room, good WiFi, nice furnishings, and beautiful views from our balcony. Estes Park Gem Lake. This trail is not paved (its a gravel trail for most of its length) but it is considered handicap accessible. Nestled high in the Sierra between Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley, this pristine glacial lake is largest in the parks front country. A few great hikes start and end along this road. NEXT: These 10 National Parks In Kenya Will Have You Book a Flight. In the spring, warmer temperatures melt the snow and visitation picks up. With Hallett Peak stacked in the background, this alpine lake is favorite in the summer and winter when you can ice skate around the lake. Related: These Lakes In Rocky Mountain National Park Are Good Alternatives To Summits. This ecosystem is an environment that typically starts at 11,000-11,500 feet. 3.6 miles, easy to moderate. The vast majority of these people visited the park between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This photo was taken on the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view. Receive small business resources and advice about entrepreneurial info, home based business, business franchises and startup opportunities for entrepreneurs. It is possible to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The wilderness features stunning mountain peaks and spectacular valleys. Lake of Glass (on the hiking trail to Sky Pond) | Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Take a Leisurely Stroll by Boulder Brook. Access: Moderate hiking. The valley boasts rich history, too: Europeans first settled there in the 1820s, as evidenced by historic log cabins, barns, churches, and grist mill, all of which the park maintains today. The picnic area has 10 tables. Winter vault toilets, 1000 US Hwy 36 Herds of elk can be found grazing in this valley. Interesting Facts about Rocky Mountain National Park, Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park, Get more information, and see many more photos, in our post, Map of Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park. On the hike to Mount Ida, you really feel like you are walking on top of the world. 970 586-1206 Granby. Bye-Bye, Trapping on Public Land in New Mexico, Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights. 4 tables in pavilion, scattered tables on hillside, Available by reservation only; $350 administrative fee to reserve area, Only self-contained grills only with special use permit, Vault toilets next to parking lot at Lily Lake, Summer flush toilets. Nymph Lake is popular for skiing, walking, and hiking - and is always overcrowded. Can We Address the Climate Crisis by Degrowing? 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. Her work has also appeared in Climbing Magazine, Outside Online, and The American Alpine Journal. With 355 miles of hiking trails, you could spend weeks here and never run out of things to do. Park Access +: This permit gives you access to everything in Rocky Mountain National Park. This hike offers great views of Rocky Mountain National Park and ends at a very pretty alpine lake. Moraine Park Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. This very highly rated property offers two-bedroom apartments that can accommodate up to six people. Some visitors complain of noise and hot temperatures in the summer (there is no air conditioning). Day 1 - Get settled and explore Historic Downtown Boulder. A Week-Long Family Friendly Winter Escape, 5 Can't-Miss Towns in the Rocky Mountains, Top 5 Places for Fall Color in Grand County, 11 Reasons to Mountain Bike in Grand County, User Generated Content Terms and Conditions, About Grand County Colorado Tourism Board. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222. This area also offers 30 fire grates, allows portable grills and has vault toilets. This gives you enough time to drive Alpine Ridge Road, Old Fall River Road, and hike a few of the trails. Population: 2,132. Moraine Park is one of the best places in Rocky Mountain National Park to see wildlife. 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. With its network of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a great summer and fall destination. For about $1, you can purchase the interpretive guide at the trailhead, which takes you through 30 marked spots along the trail that teaches you about the Bear Lake area. It is a famous route to explore Rocky Mountain National Park and is a perfect spot for bird watching, hiking, and camping. The Trail provides incredibly beautiful natural scenery, waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. Park Hours: Park entrances are open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. 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. American architect Mary Colter designed the structure, which was built in 1932, in the style of an ancestral Puebloan tower. 1000 US Hwy 36 Twist through the rugged landscape high above the meadows of Hermit Park for an incredibly engaging taste of Front Range riding. Horses and other stock are not permitted in auto campgrounds and picnic areas. Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series, Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Travel Guide. Get your camera ready for these top picture-worthy spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike to Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park. (970) 586-1206. THE POOL Cresting just over 12,000 feet, it is the highest through paved highway in the nation, and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass. 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. What makes Sprague Lake so great is there is a paved, accessible walking path so everyone can enjoy the trail. The Stanley Hotel. There are also plenty of ways to experience Rocky Mountain National Park that are off the beaten hiking . Whether a traveler is visiting for hiking, cycling, scenic drives, or wildlife viewing, Rocky Mountain National Park offers an incredible safari experience. Both Bear Lake and Sprague Lake are perfect spots for a quick photo or a nice stroll. 9 miles, strenuous. MESA VERDE: Learn about the best things to do and how to plan your visit in our Guide to Mesa Verde National Park. I recommend staying at The Residences. Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (stock photo/TheSmokies.com) 2. Distance: 4.6 miles. The state is sprinkled with city, state and national parks, making it a mecca for picnic locations. Known as one of America's most haunted hotels, it reportedly . Opened in 1920, Old Fall River Road was the first road that led into Rocky Mountain National Park. At Milner Pass overlook Mountain Daylight time on Monday, May 2. 2. alpine.. Lake with close-up views of the best places to see wildlife in 1917, John and! 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