Rocky Mountain National Park
High Colorado peaks, alpine tundra and elk-filled meadows reached by the highest paved through-road in the country, close to Denver.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Rocky Mountain National Park packs the high Colorado Rockies into an accessible park near Denver: peaks over fourteen thousand feet, alpine tundra above the treeline, and meadows where elk gather and bugle each autumn. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the country, climbs across the tundra with breathtaking ease.
What you actually see
- Trail Ridge Road - the high alpine highway crossing the tundra above the treeline.
- Bear Lake and the trails - the accessible lakes and peaks of the east side.
- The elk rut - the autumn gathering and bugling of elk in the meadows.
- Alpine tundra - the fragile high-country plants and views above the trees.
When to go
Summer for the full high road and trails; September for the elk rut and golden aspens. Trail Ridge Road closes with snow in winter. Timed-entry reservations often apply in the busy months.
Honest expectations
Its closeness to Denver makes it very busy, so timed-entry permits and full car parks are common, so plan ahead. The altitude is serious, so take it slowly and watch for altitude sickness. Afternoon thunderstorms are a real danger above the treeline in summer.
Nearby
Estes Park is the eastern gateway; Denver and Boulder are within a couple of hours.
What to pack for Rocky Mountain National Park
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
