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National park · Estes Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park, with peaks above 4,000 meters, alpine tundra, glacial lakes and elk. There is an entrance fee.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915 and protects a section of the Rocky Mountains with more than 60 peaks above 3,700 meters, the highest being Longs Peak at 4,346 meters. The Continental Divide runs north–south through the park.
The park has three environments that follow altitude: prairie valleys and pine forests, subalpine forests, and, above about 3,500 meters, alpine tundra, which covers roughly one third of the area. Elk, bighorn sheep, marmots and moose are commonly seen along the roads.
Trail Ridge Road crosses the park from Estes Park to Grand Lake, and the Bear Lake area concentrates the most popular trails. In summer and early autumn there is a timed entry reservation system for cars, in addition to the entrance fee. International visitors may pay an extra fee: check the park website.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to three days.
Best time
In summer, when Trail Ridge Road is open. September and early October have the elk rut and yellow aspens. Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms in the high areas.
How to get there
The Beaver Meadows entrance is about 5 km from downtown Estes Park; Fall River is about 8 km away.
Tip
Reserve the timed entry as soon as dates open on the park website and arrive early at the trails. In high areas, leave the tundra before mid‑afternoon, when thunderstorms are common.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rocky Mountain National Park
Do you need a reservation to enter Rocky Mountain National Park?
In summer and early fall, the park often requires a timed entry reservation for cars; check the park’s website for exact dates.
What is the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Longs Peak, at 4,346 meters.
What animals can be seen in the park?
Elk (wapiti), bighorn sheep, marmots and mule deer are commonly seen along the roads and in meadows.