Top Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park
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10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Rocky Mountain National Park That You Shouldn't Miss
One of America's premier national parks, it boasts 355 miles of hiking trails.
Restaurants in Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds
1. Forest Canyon Overlook
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 56 reviews
Reviewed By Steve5863 - Avon, United States
Coming from the east, Forest Canyon Overlook is the first major overlook along Trail Ridge Road above the tree line and is probably the best overlook along the road. From the parking area, the fenced in overlook extends away from the road for a few hundred feet (100m) giving one many different views of the surrounding mountains, tree covered valleys below, and the alpine surroundings. The morning I visited in early October, I was treated to the surrealistic experience of clearing snow shower that left behind a candy coating of snow and clouds receding through the valleys below.
2. Trail Ridge Road
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3,391 reviews
Reviewed By JMJR2K - Independence, United States
I’ve been driving Trail Ridge road for many years and discover something new and different each time. There are amazing views all around- High mountain lakes, hikes, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, ptarmigans, marmots, deer-you name it. While you won’t see all of the wildlife all the time, usually you’ll stop with others and get out your camera for at least one of these critters. On the weekends, everyone else has the same idea to make the drive so it’s terribly crowded. There are three entrances with the Kawanuchee side the least crowded for entry. The Alpine Visitor Center is a cool place to relax and take in the Picturesque views and there is a museum there that covers the early geological and evolutionary history of the area. As you would imagine, there is a souvenir shop with trinkets and clothing as well as a concession area with food and drinks. Just a beautiful park you won’t want to miss!
3. Emerald Lake Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 523 reviews
Reviewed By Steve5863 - Avon, United States
This 3.6 mile (5.8k) roundtrip hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead is an excellent moderate hike starting at 9,500 feet (2,896m) and climbs fairly steadily to 10,105 feet (3,080m), passing three beautiful lakes, in order, Nymph, Dream and Emerald with a few small cascades along the way and many views of mountains and a couple of good overlooks of valleys where one can see for miles. Dream Lake is the most beautiful lake of the three lake and many people decide to shorted the hike by 1.4 miles (2.3k) and avoid the last 180 feet (55m) of elevation gain but if it is within your capabilities, I would definitely recommend going the full distance. This is a very popular trail and parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead fills quickly. If you want to park at the trailhead and avoid the worst of the crowds, arrive early, by 7am or so, midweek if possible. However, if this is not possible do not miss your opportunity to hike this excellent trail; simply park at the remote lot and take the efficient shuttle bus system to the trailhead.
4. Alluvial Fan
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 321 reviews
Reviewed By fv1989 - Windsor, United States
RMNP just posted a press release that major trail work at the Alluvial Fan and Horseshoe Falls will require closing this area beginning on July 27 through September 24, 2020. This area will be closed on weekdays and weekends. Materials and equipment will take up most of the parking on the west side, and the east side parking lot will be closed. The west side parking area will be further limited in September due to an exclosure fence project. This is such a popular area. The planning and trail work has been ongoing and is needed to repair damage and replace trails and the bridge that were destroyed in the September 2013 flood. It is amazing to realize that such a beautiful area was created by and reshaped by devastating floods in 1982 and 2013. I still feel the area was even more beautiful before the 2013 flood. It will be interesting to see the changes when all the trail work is complete. The Google map location shown for the Alluvial Fan area on this TA listing is in the wrong place. I have reported and tried to get that corrected to no avail.
5. Alpine Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 565 reviews
Reviewed By kalyan_peri - Bridgewater, United States
While driving along the Trail Ridge Road you reach the Alpine Visitor Center at about halfway point (exact distance depends on on which direction you are driving from). We drove from Estes Park to Grand Lake and this made a great pit-stop for grabbing lunch, strolling around the visitor center and hiking up to the top! Yes, it will be very crowded during the peak summer months specifically because there are no other spots to grab food along the road. But, it is a great stop over during your day-long drive along the Trail Ridge Road After grabbing a quick lunch, there is a nice little hiking trail to the summit - called "Hike to the Top". It is a paved path with an approx elevation gain for additional 300+ feet. Please be prepared for unpredictable weather (it could suddenly very windy or it could suddenly rain) Once you get to the top, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the entire area
6. Sprague Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 371 reviews
Reviewed By Sailorsgirl - Springfield, United States
Despite the pandemic and the apparent drought in the area, Sprague Lake was beautiful and peaceful. There is a delightful 3/4 mile easy hike around the Lake with a bounty of lovely views. We visit RMNP most years but this was our first visit in October and first to Sprague Lake. Ducks swim in the lake as well as Brook Trout which can be seen in the shallows near the entrance of the walk. Mallard ducks fly in and land on the water, and the wind gently shakes the golden leaves on the Aspen trees. We think it's prettier than Lily Lake. FYI, timed reservations are required during the pandemic to visit RMNP to avoid overcrowding in the Park.. The reservations are $2.00 per visit plus your entrance fee, unless you have a lifetime Senior Park Pass. Reservations can be made online at the NPS website. Picnic tables and restrooms are available and plenty of parking. I can't provide specifics for each photo posted, but hope you can still enjoy just looking at them.
7. Bear Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,625 reviews
Reviewed By sarahmaryj - Kirkcaldy, United Kingdom
This is the place everyone goes to at this side of the park, but for good reason. It's breathtakingly beautiful. This hike is short, flat and manageable for all ages and abilities. We got fantastic photos here and took our time. There are benches and rocks to stop at. The hike was a bit short for us, so we hiked to Bierstadt lake - this was SO quiet compared to Bear Lake and goes through forest. We found out from passers by that from Bierstadt you can hike all the way back to the park and ride - this was a lovely walk with amazing mountain views at the end. We hardly passed any other people by the end, so I'd recommend this as a good way to lengthen your hike and get back to your car without going all the way back.
8. Moraine Park Stables
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 82 reviews
9. Hidden Valley Sledding and Tubing Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By 913JohnM - Berthoud, United States
If you want some winter time fun, even on a 50 degree, brown, dry day on the front range, come up to Hidden Valley! About 2 miles before the turn off, the dry landscape will turn winter white! In addition to the 2 sledding hills there are areas to back country snow board, ski, snow shoe etc. There are also regular restrooms at the parking area. Great fun and a wonderful way to get in some activity on a winter day!
10. Many Parks Curve Overlook
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By cornerstone1979 - Cecilia, United States
This was an unexpected stop for us but offered a beautiful overlook. Driving Trail Ridge Road can bring a lot of anxiety so this was a great way to take a break and relax. I highly recommend making this stop.
