Rocky Mountain National Park

Over 415 square miles of protected mountain terrain with a huge network of hiking trails & wildlife.

When is your trip?

–

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Rocky Mountain National Park Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Allenspark

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Top attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Trail Ridge Rd

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic Drives

Picturesque alpine roadway known for its striking mountain panoramas. Seasonal access.

2. Bear Lake Trailhead

4.9

(5690)

Hiking area

Nature & Parks

Starting/ending point for a short nature trail looping around a scenic, high-altitude lake.

Slide 1 of 8

I really don't know how I've always overlooked Rocky Mountain National Park. I know this is a review on Bear Lake the wild the entire park is amazing. Bear Lake is what you make of it easy or to the extreme there are so many different areas to hike from here. Great for couples singles families or even small little groups. The lake is very easy to do .8 miles it has different scenes at every corner you turn. I did the loop and then headed out to Emerald Lake I'm so glad I did.

LAUS D — Google review

Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is absolutely stunning and a must-visit spot. The lake is surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks and tall pine trees, making it a picture-perfect place for nature lovers. The trail around the lake is an easy walk, suitable for all ages, and offers beautiful views from every angle. The clear reflections of the mountains in the water are especially magical in the morning. It can get crowded during peak times, but the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it worth the visit. A perfect place to relax, take photos, or start your hike deeper into the park.

Iqbal N — Google review

With postcard worthy views throughout the easy walk around this picturesque alpine lake it's quite easy to see why there are such stringent timed entry constraints for the Bear Lake Road corridor. It only takes about fifteen minutes to walk around the trail is flat and very well maintained. Definitely suggest it if you are short on time or just don't feel like going on a multiple mile long hike. As far as the timed entry permit goes if you visit during peak season and plan well enough in advanced then permits can be secured starting a month in advance. Or a limited few are released the night before. However if you cannot secure a permit you can still work around the timed entry hours either arrive early (before 5 a.m., or visit right after 6 pm.) . I would love to visit during the fall, and winter as I'm sure both seasons add their own personal beauty to the already pristine lake

Keith G — Google review

We had a wonderful time here. The trails are very, very smooth. they do have a couple little rocks in them, you could probably get a large wheeled stroller through here, but I would probably still recommend a carrier if you have young kids instead. This is a very kid, friendly trail, too. Beautiful and lots of great views and picture opportunities all the way around the lake. It’s about a mile around. There are lots of people, but it doesn’t really seem like it once you’re on the trail.

Jason C — Google review

One of the most popular starting points in Rocky Mountain National Park. At 9.475 ft (2900m) elevation, the air stays cool even in summer. From here, you can hike to Bear Lake Loop, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Parking fills up quickly for those with cars but shuttle buses are available for visitors without one. Surrounded by pine, spruce and fir forests. It's a beautiful trail.

Ozi — Google review

Super easy trail that is basically paved and flat the whole loop. Took the shuttle from park n ride to make it even easier and not worry about parking. Also did the Emerald Lake trail before hand. So this is a good add-on hike if you still have energy from Emerald.

Joshua — Google review

Great place for hiking, no matter what level you're at. Plenty of parking and a free park and ride system, restrooms and as always knowledgeable and helpful rangers on hand. We did the hike up to Emerald lake via Nymph lake and Dream lake, and also to Alberta falls, then out through Glacier Gorge trailhead. Excellent trails and amazing scenery! The must visit one stop destination fo hikers of all ages and abilities.

Deniz U — Google review

The trail to Lake Haiyaha has an unmarked corner on a switchback that, if snowed over, would be missed leading off trail since there is no deterrent. It is beautiful and very windy up there. The bridge noted as under construction on the NPS site is complete to Emerald Lake.

Julie B — Google review

3. Alpine Visitor Center

4.8

(4770)

Visitor center

Scenic 11,796-ft. stop in Rocky Mountain National Park with a cafe, gift shop & dramatic views.

Slide 1 of 8

This is more than just a visitor center for the national Park service, it is a really neat place to visit. You have breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains. Moreover, it’s above the tree line, so it is really interesting and different from about any other ecosystem, you could see. I particularly enjoyed that they had a seating area inside with big huge panel windows to look out over the mountains and the valleys and streams below. It is extremely busy so I would recommend coming early. Moreover, a lot of times it rains in the afternoons in the mountains so coming early makes even more sense to be able to See Things and also to take advantage of some of the trails that spiral out from this visitor center. There is a short trail to the top of a very nearby mountain, which is worthwhile but expect that it will take more effort than you think due to the high altitude. I will also say that about half of our 20 person party experienced altitude sickness since this is at about 12,000 feet. The roads are pretty narrow and a little bit scary so this is something else you should consider as you’re driving up. There are lots of places to turn off and look at stuff. The center itself has bathrooms a ranger station a small gift shop and a neat little mini museum. Five stars!

Jason C — Google review

This visitor center offers gorgeous views across Rocky Mountain national Park. We were here in an evening right at sunset, so we were not able to go into the actual visitor center, but we spent a good bit of time here just soaking in the sunset views. Not only did we get to see the beautiful sky after the sun went down, but we got to watch elk and some moose in the valley below the visitor center! There is also nice restrooms here, and plenty of parking. As well as some steps that take you up to an observation point at an even higher elevation.

Kevin H — Google review

Unfortunately by the time we visited (October 10) and drove all the way to the top, we found that the Visitors Center was CLOSED for the season. Very disappointing but totally understandable, given the huge snowfalls (there was snow at this altitude already) and the very unnerving drive. This drive once you start climbing to the higher elevations, and certainly above 9,000 - 10,000 feet, is on a narrow but well maintained road, with no guardrails and precipitous drops! As one Park Ranger told me later - not for the faint of heart! However, this is the highest Visitors Center in the US National Park system and the alpine views above the tree lines and just below the clouds are incredible! Be aware that, as in our case, at the lower parts of the park (around 7-8,000 feet in elevation) the temperature was 58F while at the top of the mountains at the Visitor Center it was light rain and 39F. Do not take lightly the precautions of rapid and significant weather changes. But absolutely glad we did the drive once.

Dr D — Google review

Great visitor center! Unique experience to go all the way to the top! Definitely acclimate to the elevation first. Over 11,000 feet about sea level. Great views. I liked trail ridge road better but we did old Fall River on the way up. Saw a marmot! Check out the cafe/store for a larger selection of souvenirs. Food didn’t have many choices.

Vickie P — Google review

Beautiful trail ridge road leading to the alpine visitor center. We saw a moose just before entering the parking lot. The view from the center in the fall is absolutely gorgeous. There is a short hike up to an overlook offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain range. Hiking boots are not needed. Perfect spot for a pit stop on a scenic drive.

Elena W — Google review

Beautiful 360 degree views of the snow capped mountains. The hike to the summit was rewarding and breathtaking! Definitely recommend this one. Cafe serves a variety of beverages, minimal food options. The gift/souvenir store has variety but is over priced. If you are going down and exiting the RMNP, you will find many souvenir stores selling the same things for at least 30% less.

Dinesh C — Google review

The Alpine Center in RMNP is amazing! The drive there from Beaver Meadows entrance was exhilarating. Going from Aspen and pine forest to the alpine and tundra area above treeline was super interesting. At Alpine one can climb a straight, half mile trail straight up to be at the top of the mountain with views in all directions of the world below. Amazing! Educational info along the trail regarding the tundra's plants, wild flowers and animals, how they survive winters with 100 mph winds that scour the land, little water, and freezing temps were nice spots to stop, rest, and read. The air is super thin and takes some getting used to. We really enjoyed our day getting there.

Tammy S — Google review

It's a beautiful place at 11700 ft above sea level. About 40 parking spots. To get the best view , we walk up the pathway, partly steps and partly a small paved road to get to the top of the mountain to 12005 ft high.

Parag M — Google review

4. Old Fall River Rd

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic Drives

First road open to autos in the Rocky Mountain National Park, offering sweeping views & wildlife.

5. Emerald Lake

4.9

(355)

Lake

Nature & Parks

A popular hiking route leads to this scenic lake with views of the surrounding mountains.

Slide 1 of 8

In Rocky Mountain National Park, starting at Bear Lake, the less than two-mile trail ascends gradually past Nymph and Dream Lakes to Emerald Lake. Rewarding views along the way. Vista at Emerald Lake is spectacular no matter what time of year.

Robert S — Google review

A well deserved name. Emerald color water against an imposing backdrop of snowcapped mountains. You have to do a bit of boulder scrambling to find the right perch, but once you're settled in, it's quite magnificent to sit and take it all in.

Saminda W — Google review

This was truly an amazing hike. It was a great place to rest and eat a light lunch. The hike from Bear lake all the way to Emerald Lake was truly remarkable. Truly one of the best hikes in the US.

John S — Google review

Emerald Lake is absolutely worth the hike. The trail getting there is beautiful, and the lake itself is stunning, especially with the mountains rising right behind it. Even with a bit of a crowd, it still feels peaceful once you're there. It's not a long hike, but the payoff is huge-some of the best views in the park and a great spot to stop, take it all in, and just enjoy the moment.

Tim D — Google review

Rarely go on hikes but this one was worth it, I’d recommend this hike in a heart beat just do be mindful of the limited parking!

Estevan L — Google review

Emerald Lake is stunning. My favorite on this trail. Easy to follow to get here and you pass Nymph Lake and Dream Lake on the way. All are beautiful. I wore my Asics runners because they are most comfortable for me while hiking. They were perfect for this trail! But you should have shoes with some traction to help over the uneven terrain and rocks! The trail is relatively easy/moderate with incline and steps. Not as difficult as the trail to Haiyaha but if you aren’t used to the altitude, can still take your breath. Take your time and enjoy! Lots of places to stop and rest. As for parking - we arrived around noon on a friday (8/30/24). The signs at the NP entrance said trailhead parking lot was full. We decided to still drive all the way to check it out. Highlyyyy recommend that before going straight to the park and ride lot where you take the bus to and from the trailhead. There were at least 5 parking spots open when we got there. Glad we didn’t waste the time with the bus but glad that’s an option for some. People of all ages were doing this hike! A must do in RMNP!

Anna R — Google review

Absolutely breathtaking spot. Well worth the hike out and back. I recommend getting there early and packing a lunch. Once you get all the way up there you're gonna wanna hang out for a while. The views were incredible second to none. The hike was great too. Not rough at all. Kinda long. The scenic views just get better and better so enjoy it.

Blues C — Google review

This is an absolutely beautiful hike!! I went the first week of April and wore snowshoes. I wound definitely recommend microspikes at the very least. There were quite a few people struggling without spikes. It’s not worth an injury when you can pick up a pair of cheap spikes for $30 on Amazon.

Chris W — Google review

6. Alberta Falls

4.8

(570)

Park

Nature & Parks

Slide 1 of 8

We did this hike several years ago and loved it so much we went again this week. The trail is an easy grade and relatively short. The falls are a spectacular view at this time of year and you can climb the rocks right at the edge to see it tumble down its canyon. Don't forget to reserve your time slot at recreation.gov and go early. The line by the afternoon to get into RMNP is LONG!

Ian R — Google review

Great waterfall along the journey to other trails. If you go to the top of the falls the view is simply gorgeous. It’s an easy hike and great for beginners but gives you the feel of something so much more as you can sort of climb the rock and more rough terrain. You can also descend down into the water if you wanted. Though the view from the trail is also great if you’re less adventurous!

Troy H — Google review

Great simple hike with lots of options on other trails. The falls were mostly frozen but just offered a different beauty than the normal. We took our 5 year old and she made 85% of the hike coming from the upper parking at the lake. Very well maintained trail. Definitely very busy. All in all Definitely recommend.

Jared M — Google review

This was our favorite hike yet. Beautiful falls! Took us about 3 miles round trip from Glacier Gorge Trailhead.

Niena L — Google review

Alberta Falls trail in an excellent hike for anyone visiting Rocky Mountain National Park —whether you're pressed for time or looking to get a taste of alpine scenery without intensive trekking. It's scenic year‑round, easy to access, and a great choice for families or casual hikers.

Shabira K — Google review

This was a beautiful waterfall. It’s not the easiest to view fully, but you can see different sections of it along different points. It’s also not particularly well suited for super young children unless you can be one on one with them. We took around nine kids and it was definitely a little scary at times because they want to get close to the edge in order to see. However, that said, this is definitely a nice hike and a beautiful setting and worthwhile if you are in the park. We use public transportation to get there, which made it easy and we didn’t have to fight for parking spaces. Five stars!

Jason C — Google review

A beautiful and easy hike to one of the most popular waterfalls in Rocky Mountain. The trail is short, scenic, and family-friendly, with great views along the way.

Connected B — Google review

Honestly wasn’t impressed. For the short strenuous hike on the way up really don’t think it’s worth it. Went passed on my way to sky pond and the view point was very busy!!! The aspens were beautiful tho! 9/19/25

Vickie P — Google review

Other notable attractions

Bear Lake Trail

Nature & Parks

Hiking Trails

Scenic, heavily trafficked 0.8-mile loop trail with 30 interpretive markers & picturesque beauty.

Sprague Lake

Lake

Nature & Parks

Rocky Mountain National Park lake ringed by a half-mile trail & popular for fishing & views.

Lily Lake Trail

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

East Alluvial Fan Trailhead

Hiking area

Nature & Parks

Adams Fls Trl

Nature & Parks

Hiking Trails

Cub Lake Trail

Nature & Parks

Hiking Trails

Herds of elk & mule deer can be seen on this trail with lake views & other wildlife.

Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

Visitor center

Topographical relief map of the park & a short film, along with bathrooms, a gift shop & free Wi-Fi.

Wild Basin Trailhead

Hiking area

Sights & Landmarks

Gem Lake Trail

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

Rated as 'moderate' difficulty, this trail is popular for the access it provides to Gem Lake.

Glacier Creek Stables

Temporarily Closed

Horseback riding service

Sights & Landmarks

Best-of categories in Rocky Mountain National Park

Kid-friendly attractions

Hiking

Popular road trips from Rocky Mountain National Park

Slide 1 of 30

Rocky Mountain National Park to

New York City

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Las Vegas

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Denver

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Colorado Springs

Rocky Mountain National Park to

San Francisco

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Los Angeles

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Chicago

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Washington DC

Rocky Mountain National Park to

San Diego

Rocky Mountain National Park to

New Orleans

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Seattle

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Toronto

Rocky Mountain National Park to

San Antonio

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Nashville

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Vancouver

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Santa Fe

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Branson

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Mexico City

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Saint Louis

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Niagara Falls

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Steamboat Springs

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Moab

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Yellowstone National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Sedona

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Atlanta

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Albuquerque

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Memphis

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Dallas

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Breckenridge

Rocky Mountain National Park to

Gatlinburg

All road trips from Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Get inspired for your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about Rocky Mountain National Park

How do I get my preferred entry time at Rocky Mountain National Park?

You have to do it when they go on sale, it goes really fast. Be ready and have everything you need.

Georgiana Jacobson

View 1 response

Recommendations for must see spots and beginner trails at Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Colorado

I haven’t been to RMNP, but I have some reservations for the grand Tetons in September and i am so excited!

Lon Grady

View 2 responses

Weather in Rocky Mountain National Park

Here's the historical average temperature in Rocky Mountain National Park over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Rocky Mountain National Park in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Monthly temperature highs and lows in Rocky Mountain National Park

Ready to plan your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park?

Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play