Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Established on January 26, 1915, Rocky Mountain National Park is a living showcase of the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. With elevations ranging from 8,000 feet in the wet, grassy valleys to 14,259 feet at the weather-ravaged top of Long's Peak, a visitor to the park has opportunities for countless breathtaking experiences and adventures. Elk, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, coyotes, cougars, eagles, hawks and scores of smaller animals delight wildlife-watchers of all ages. Wildflower-lovers are never disappointed in June and July when the meadows and hillsides are splashed with botanical color. Autumn visitors can relax among the golden aspens or enjoy the rowdier antics of the elk rut (mating season). 359 miles of trail offer endless opportunities to hikers, backpackers and horseback riders. Fly fishers, bird-watchers and photographers discover the splendor that they traveled so far to find. During the winter, snowshoers and cross-country skiers revel in the white-blanketed tranquility of meadows and forests. 60 peaks rising above 12,000 feet challenge intrepid hikers and climbers. Anyone visiting between Memorial Day and late autumn can see many of these peaks eye-to-eye by driving over Trail Ridge Road. Topping out at 12,183 feet, this is the highest, continuous, paved road in the United States. Front-country and backcountry campers have hundreds of campsites to choose from. Civilization and its amenities are available in the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake which flank the park on the east and west sides respectively. Ranger-led activities are an entertaining way to learn more about your surroundings. Plan some time to acclimate to the high altitude and come find your adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park. BEAR LAKE ROAD RECONSTRUCTION! Access to Bear Lake by shuttle bus only during construction. Call 970-586-1206 for more information.

IN DEPTH

Walking & Hiking More than 350 miles of trails lead to crystal-clear mountain lakes, lacy waterfalls and breathtaking views for hikers of every skill level, from easy and flat to vertical ascents...read more

Watermelon Snow It may be fun to throw snowballs in August along the Trail Ridge Road, but don't eat the "pink" snow. The color is caused by thriving communities of algae....read more

Welcome to Rocky Mountain National Park Welcome to Rocky Mountain National Park! "This is a beautiful world, and all who go out under the open sky will feel the gentle, kindly influence of nature and hear...read more

Activities & Programs Rocky Mountain National Park is more than just a summer destination. Visitors who enjoy the freedom and space found here in the summer, often come back to enjoy the...read more

What You Can Do As strange as it may seem, not feeding animals in the park greatly protects their welfare. When wild animals become dependent on humans for food, they lose their ability...read more

At Your Fingertips General Park Information (970) 586-1206 www.nps.gov/romo Emergencies 911 (970) 586-1203 Backcountry Information (970) 586-1242 Camping Reservations Glacier Basin, Moraine Park (888) 448-1474 (information) (877) 444-6777 (reservations) Accessible Backcountry Site Reservations (970) 586-1242 Lodging Estes Park Chamber of...read more

Who's Who Outdoor Field Seminars LEARN. EXPLORE. ADVENTURE. Rocky Mountain Field Seminars, in Rocky Mountain National Park, is the oldest national park field seminar program in the United States. Courses are...read more

Bighorn Sheep The bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis), symbol of Rocky Mountain National Park, are well-known for their impressive horns and their incredible agility on the steep crags of the Rockies. Neither...read more

Camping at Rocky Mountain Camping is only permitted in the park's five roadside campgrounds. Campgrounds fill quickly from mid-June to mid-September and on holiday weekends, so it's wise to plan ahead. Fees are...read more

Continental Divide Trail The construction of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is one of the most significant conservation initiatives ever undertaken. Designated by Congress in 1978, a focused effort to complete the...read more

PARK PHOTOS

Rocky Mountain : Elk Grazing
Elk Grazing
Terry Reimink
Rocky Mountain : Entrance Sign
Entrance Sign
Ronald Sherwood
Rocky Mountain : Forest Waterfall
Forest Waterfall
Craig E Divine