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Your Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park for the First Time
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of my favorite National Parks and is just a short 1-hour drive from Denver, Colorado. The continental divide runs through the park creating some of the best hiking and mountain landscapes in the state. Rocky Mountain National Park reminds me of Ireland’s lush green landscape, mixed with rugged Colorado mountains. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road for a scenic drive through the park.
Personalized Trip Planner
If you are interested in a more tailored and detailed Travel Itinerary, I am happy to help. With my Custom Travel Itineraries you will receive a full travel consultation with me and a full Itinerary that is fit to your travel style and needs!
When To Visit Rocky Mount National Park
Late Spring, Summer, and Early Fall are the best times to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. May through September temperatures will range from 42°F – 70°F with mostly sunny days. The winter season is cold and the park receives a good amount of snow. Road closures happen frequently during the winter.
Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance Fee
Private Vehicle – $35
Motorcycle – $30
Per Person with no vehicle – $20
All national parks require the purchase of an entrance ticket or park pass. Credit cards are accepted at the entrance gates. I highly recommend purchasing the Annual America the Beautiful Pass. It is good for one year and gets you into all national parks and more for free!
America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass
We purchased our National Park Annual Pass through REI. Have an REI Account and get points for your park pass purchase! National Park Annual Pass – $79.99
Know Before you Go – Reservation System
Due to the mass amount of tourists visiting the Rocky Mountain National Park, the National Park Services (NPS) have instated a Timed-Entry Reservation System. A reservation is required during the peak visiting months. Find reservation release dates and how to book your reservation here.
Driving in the Rocky Mountain National Park
Trail Ridge Road is the main road in the National Park that takes you all the way around the national park. This is a two-way road with narrow areas and windy inclines. Make sure you are cautious and focused when driving and be aware of wildlife, tourists, and weather advisories. The entire drive is gorgeous with amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, tundra landscape, and bodies of water.
Rocky Mountain National Park Accommodation
Camping inside the National Park? – GET YOUR CAMPSITE RESERVATION NOW
- Glacier Basin Campground – $30 – $60, Tent Camping Only
- Moraine Park Campground: $20 – $30, Tent Camping Only
- Timber Creek Campground: $30, Tent Camping Only, West Side
FREE Camping outside the Rocky Mountain National Park
Glacier View Dispersed Camping
- Easy Access
- Flat Smooth Grounds
- Great for tent camping or RVs
- No Bathrooms
- Highway Noise
Estes Park Hotels
- Located 10-minutes from the National Park
- Rustic Modern Design
- On-Site Restaurant
- Heated Indoor Pool
- Budget: $$
- Lake Front Resort
- Condo Style with Kitchen
- On-Site Restaurant
- Spa Services
- Budget: $$$
Rocky Mountain National Park Food
Estes Park Restaurants
- Bird & Jim – Rustic American Locally Sourced Foods ($$$)
- Notchtop Bakery & Cafe – Breakfast/Lunch with Organic Ingredients ($$)
Estes Park is located on the East side of the National Park and offers a great selection of coffee shops, restaurants, and bars.
Restaurants Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park
- Park Picnic – Bring your own food and find one of the parks many picnic areas. There are grills and tables avalaible for day use.
- Alpine Visitor Center – Gift Shop, Breakfast/Snacks ($$) The $5 Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a must-order!
Things To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Hike – Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of hiking trails. Whether you are looking for easy, moderate, or advanced hikes you will find the perfect hike for you.
- Alpine Visitor Gift Shop
- Scenic Drive
- Wildlife & Landscape Photography
- Ranger Programs for Kids
- Fish
- Horseback Riding
Top Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes
Mount Ida Hike 9.3 miles
Mount Ida is one of the national park’s top hikes. This is a difficult out and back hike at 9.3 miles with a 2,358 feet elevation change. The trailhead is near Poudre Lake. There is limited parking near the trail so arrive early to beat the crowds. The trail runs in-between the two continental drain divides. Plan ahead and be aware of the weather because afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly.
Read My FULL Mount Ida Hiking Guide Here
Alpine Ridge Trail .7 Miles
The Alpine Ridge Trail is located at the Alpine Visitor Center and sits at 11,796 feet in elevation. The visitor center has an information center, gift shop, food, and restrooms. Right above the visitor center is a long and steep set of stairs. Hike up the steps to see some gorgeous views of the mountains.
Rocky Mountain National Park Packing Guide
- Osprey Hydration Pack
- Rain Coat
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp
- Hiking Boots
- Food/Snacks – Think! High Protein Bar
- Extra pair of Socks
- Map
- Camera
- Toilet Paper
- Hat/Sunglass
