Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park (2024)

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Key Takeaways

• Drive along Trail Ridge Road for breathtaking alpine views. At 12,183 feet, it is the highest continuous paved through road in the United States.
• Stay overnight at one of the five campgrounds or in the nearby town of Estes Park. There are no lodging options within the park.
• Enjoy outdoor activities any time of year, from rock climbing and fishing in the summer, to skiing and even ice climbing in the winter.
• Explore trails leading to stunning destinations like Bear Lake and Emerald Lake, two of the most popular things to do at Rocky Mountain National Park.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

How Many Days Do You Need to Spend in Rocky Mountain National Park?

We recommend setting aside at least three days for Rocky Mountain National Park. That way, you'll have plenty of time to fit in a few good hikes, check out lakes and wildlife, and drive along both Alpine Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.

Where to Stay in Rocky Mountain National Park

Several accommodation options are available both inside and around Rocky Mountain National Park, catering to different preferences and budgets. Consider adding these spots to your list of places to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Inside the Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Moraine Park Campground: With over 200 sites, Moraine Park provides a rustic wilderness experience, often complete with stunning scenery and often, wildlife sightings.
• Aspenglen Campground: Located just inside the Fall River Entrance, Aspenglen is a smaller and quieter campground, with park sites available for tents and RVs. It's particularly popular during the summer months, as it has well-equipped facilities and is close to some of the park’s main attractions. This is the only camping available year-round.
• Glacier Basin Campground: On the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground offers 150 sites suitable for tents, RVs, and large groups. The campground is close to Bear Lake Trailhead and Sprague Lake and also offers shuttle bus services.
• Longs Peak Campground: This tent-only campground with just 26 sites is first-come, first-served. It’s a short walk to the Longs Peak trailhead and has the fewest amenities of all the national park campgrounds.

Outside the Park

If you prefer more comfortable accommodation, there are many options in the nearby town of Estes Park, a short 15-minute drive from the eastside Beaver Meadows entrance. Estes Park is a charming town with a population of 5,862 with plenty to offer, including quaint shops and local restaurants that capture the spirit of the Colorado high country.

• The Stanley Hotel: Just a few minutes from the national park’s east entrance in Estes Park, this historic hotel offers luxury accommodations with spectacular mountain views. Famous for its architecture and as the inspiration for Stephen King’s "The Shining," The Stanley provides comfortable accommodation with historical charm.
• YMCA of the Rockies: This family-friendly resort offers a variety of lodging options, including classic lodges and rustic private cabins, which are just a 15-minute drive from Estes Park. It's an excellent choice for those who want a mix of outdoor adventure and amenities like swimming pools, organized activities, and dining facilities.
• Murphy’s River Lodge: Situated along the banks of the Big Thompson River, this lodge offers guests a peaceful nature retreat. With cozy rooms and riverside condos available, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Rockies with the comforts of home. The lodge also offers easy access to local trails and downtown Estes Park.

What to Wear When Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park experiences a wide range of weather conditions depending on the season, so consider this before you start packing. In the summer months, lightweight, breathable clothing is key for staying comfortable during warm days. It’s also wise to carry a rain jacket as afternoon thunderstorms are common.

If you want to feel comfortable and agile with sleek sporty classics, check out our women’s hiking clothing and men’s outdoor wear.

What to Do And See in Rocky Mountain National Park

Each of these attractions and activities showcases a different aspect of what to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Explore the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems via iconic drives, immersive hikes, and more. There are numerous ways for national park visitors to engage with the natural beauty and diverse park ecosystems, from its iconic drives, immersive hikes, and endless landscape photography opportunities.

Drive Along Trail Ridge and Old Fall River Road

There are two main scenic drives in Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. At an elevation of 12,183 feet, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved through road in the country and is one of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. For 48 miles, it runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, 11 miles of which are across the alpine tundra above the treeline. Trail Ridge Road also crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass.

Along this breathtaking national park drive, guests can expect to find sweeping views, wildlife sightings of bighorn sheep and elk, as well as dozens of worthwhile hikes. This road also features the highest visitor center in the U.S., the Alpine Visitor Center, at 11,796 feet. If you’re wondering where to go in Rocky Mountain National Park, this is a great place to start.

Old Fall River Road is an 11-mile one-way uphill gravel park road with switchbacks that can be traversed in about an hour. This was the first road in the park, established in 1920. You can enjoy the drive with any standard vehicle, so don’t worry if you don’t have a 4x4. The road is safe but narrow and windy, so keep your eyes on the road and adhere to the national park’s 15-mile-per-hour speed limit.

Hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park offers diverse landscapes, from serene lakes to peak summits, allowing hikers of all levels to enjoy its natural beauty. Here are 9 national park trails to check out, ranging from casual, family-friendly strolls to demanding, all-day treks. Review our first aid checklist to ensure optimum safety while venturing into the wilderness.

Easy Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Bear Lake Loop: 0.8 miles—A scenic, flat loop around Bear Lake, offering spectacular views of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide.
• Sprague Lake Loop: 0.9 miles—This easy, accessible trail circles Sprague Lake, perfect for families and photographers looking for water and mountain vistas.
• Lily Lake Loop: 0.8 miles—This is a leisurely stroll around Lily Lake, great for bird watching and enjoying peaceful lake views.

Moderate Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Emerald Lake Trail: 3.5 miles—This moderately challenging hike passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake and ends at the stunning Emerald Lake right beneath the sheer cliffs of Hallet Peak. It is one of the most popular hikes, and many consider it a Rocky Mountain National Park must-see.
• Deer Mountain Trail: 6 miles—This trail climbs to the summit of Deer Mountain, providing panoramic views of the park.
• The Loch Trail: 5.7 miles—This trail leads to The Loch, a beautiful subalpine lake surrounded by peaks, with waterfalls and wildlife along the way.

Challenging Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

• The Keyhole via Longs Peak Trail: 13 miles—A difficult, all-day climb to the park’s highest peak has a total elevation gain of 4,875 feet and is suitable only for experienced hikers.
• Sky Pond: 9 miles—This strenuous hike takes you past waterfalls and smaller lakes to Sky Pond, set against dramatic cliffs.
• Chasm Lake: 8.4 miles—A challenging hike with steep elevation gains that leads to a spectacular lake nestled below Longs Peak.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is one of the top activities in Rocky Mountain National Park, and visitors can expect to encounter a range of animals. These include elk and moose, which roam the meadows in large herds, as well as mountain lions and black bears in the more secluded areas.

Moraine Valley is a prime spot for elk, especially in the early to mid-morning and evening time when they’re most active. Kawuneeche Valley is the best area to observe moose, particularly at dawn and dusk.

You’ll also likely see golden eagles and peregrine falcons patrolling the skies above. Smaller creatures, like the pika and yellow-bellied marmot, are often spotted among the rocky park outcrops. To ensure safety and protect the national park's natural inhabitants, visitors are advised to observe wildlife from a distance, store food securely, and stay on designated trails at all times.

Other Activities in Rocky Mountain National Park

You’ll find a plethora of unique Rocky Mountain activities for those looking to explore beyond its many hiking trails. From horseback riding through picturesque trails to diverse climbing opportunities and tranquil fishing spots, the park serves as a year-round destination for all types of outdoor adventure.

• Horseback Riding: Glacier Creek Stables offers guided horseback riding tours through scenic mountain paths, giving visitors a unique way to experience the park’s vast beauty from the comfort of a saddle. Whether you're a novice or an experienced rider, these tours can provide a memorable adventure through meadows, woodlands, and mountain vistas.
• Climbing: Rocky Mountain National Park offers challenges for climbers of all skill levels. The park features numerous rock and ice climbing routes, ranging from bouldering problems to multi-pitch climbs. The park's high elevation and cold temperatures ensure a long and stable ice climbing season, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
• Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities in the park's streams and lakes. Fly fishing is particularly good in the Big Thompson River, Fall River, and Glacier Creek, where anglers can cast for brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Check park regulations for season dates and required permits.
• Winter Sports: During the wintertime, this high-altitude national park is transformed into a white wonderland where visitors can expect to see endless snowy landscapes. Hidden Valley and Bear Lake Road are the most popular areas for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park offers a rich array of landscapes and activities that can cater to any nature seeker. Whether you're driving along the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road, hiking through serene alpine trails, or observing majestic wildlife, the park provides unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Rockies.

As you plan your trip, remember to respect the natural environment, adhere to park guidelines, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of America’s most cherished national parks. Thoughtful management strategies like the timed entry permit system help preserve its natural beauty and monitor excess crowds. Whether for a day trip or an extended week-long stay, Rocky Mountain National Park promises adventure, tranquility, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature any time of year.

Looking to explore Colorado beyond the borders of Rocky Mountain National Park? Check out our best hikes near Denver and Boulder hikes.

Featured image by: Snehit photo.

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Nancy Raven Kirk

Nancy is a writer, traveler, and outdoor enthusiast originally from Los Angeles. She's had work published in the L.A. Times, OC Weekly, and various other publications. Check out her website at www.copybykirk.com.