Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is world famous for a reason. The beautiful views, wildlife, and unforgettable fresh mountain air are unbelievably wonderful. There is much to do in the park for people of all ages and activity levels. One must not forget comfortable shoes, clothing for all weather, binoculars, and a camera.
Many people enjoy fly-fishing or reel fishing in the many rivers and streams, hiking around lakes or on one of the many trails, horseback riding, mountain biking, and scenic drives, but these are only a handful of the exciting activities in the park. The scenic drives are a must because the drastic changes from the lowland meadows to the tundra are phenomenal. The terrane at 12,000 feet is truly a sight to see! The different wildlife you will see in the park is also a huge draw for many.
Whether you decide to find a private picnic table or a huge boulder overlooking a river, hike on a trail, or relax while fishing one of the many lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park will provide an exciting and awe-inspiring getaway. Make sure to view our many Estes Park cabins and book a vacation to remember. Our Rocky Mountain National Park lodging is conveniently located near many Estes Park activities.
Entrance Fees
There are entrance fees of $35 per vehicle for seven consecutive days. When you enter you will be given a map that will help you find all the splendors Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. There are also a number of visitor centers where you can learn about the park, purchase gifts, and help plan your trip in the park.
Timed Entry Permits
Timed entry permits (per vehicle) are required at RMNP from May 24th through mid-October. There are two different timed entry options to choose from: Timed Entry or Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road. Both reservation options allow park visitors to enter Rocky Mountain National Park within 2-hour windows of time during the day. If you arrive outside of your reserved time frame, you may be notified by a park ranger that you have missed your reservation window and you will be asked to come back after 2 p.m.
Reservations are only available on Recreation.gov. 40% of available timed entry reservations are released on the website the night before a chosen arrival date. These will be available beginning at 7 p.m. MDT.
Learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park’s required timed entry permit system.
Visitor Centers
Alpine Visitor Center: At Fall River Pass at the junction of Trail Ridge and Old Fall River roads. Located at 11,796 feet! The winding road up will get your adrenaline pumping.
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center: On US Route 36, 3 miles from Estes Park. There is a short film about the park and there are rangers onsite who can help you plan your trip.
Fall River Visitor Center: On US Route 34 west of Estes Park near the Fall River entrance. Children love this visitor center because of the discovery room and the life-sized wildlife that is on display. There are rangers on site and a restaurant next door.
Please refer to the Visitors Center Page for hours of operation (based on season) and closures!