Rocky Mountain National Park spans 265,769 acres of pristine wilderness and reaches its highest point at 14,259 feet at the top of Longs Peak. From jagged mountain peaks and flowing mountain streams to expansive valleys and lush forests, Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fourth, here are five ways to experience Rocky Mountain National Park during your Estes Park vacation.
Hiking
A hiker’s paradise, RMNP offers roughly 355 miles of trails, scenic overlooks, and some of the best alpine scenery in the world at nearly 12,000 feet. From easy half-mile loops to strenuous 20+ mile routes, visitors will find a trail, no matter their skill level. To help get you started here are a few of our favorite easy to moderate hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Alberta Falls
- Emerald Lake
- Lily Lake
- Sprague Lake
- Adams Falls
- Cub Lake
Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road
One of the most popular scenic drives in all of Colorado, Trail Ridge Road is one experience not to be missed during your visit to RMNP. Trail Ridge Road covers 48 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake, with 11 miles of the road traveling above treeline at 11,500 feet in elevation. Its highest point reaches 12,183 feet, making it the highest continuous paved road in the U.S.
While there are plenty of scenic overlooks and pull-out stops, Forest Canyon Overlook should be at the top of your list. It offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the park. The pull-out for this overlook is located between Rainbow Curve and Rock Cut Overlooks on the east side of the drive.
Wildlife viewing
From herds of elk to nearly 282 reported species of birds, RMNP is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Viewing the wildlife inside the park is one of the park’s main attractions. Visitors are likely to encounter elk, moose, bighorn sheep, bears, a variety of birds, and even its littlest creature – the small but mighty pika.
Guests of Valhalla Resort are in a great place to see local wildlife. Because of our proximity to the park, elk sightings are frequent on our property – making wildlife viewing easily enjoyed from the comfort of your cabin.
Visit an alpine lake
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to 156 lakes, each of which offers its own distinct beauty. Some of the more popular lakes to visit include Bear Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Sprague Lake. While some are easily accessed, like Bear Lake, others require a moderate hike to get to.
Rocky Mountain National Park to re-open May 27th
The re-opening of Rocky Mountain National Park will begin on May 27th. Because the park will not be fully open, be sure to check their website for the most updated information regarding their phased re-opening.
Where to stay in Estes Park
There is no lodging inside the park. The closest lodging accommodations are found in the town of Estes Park. Just a five-minute drive time from the east entrance to RMNP via the Beaver Meadows entrance, Valhalla Resort is one of the best ways to experience Rocky Mountain National Park. Our accommodations include comfortable rustic-style cabins with modern amenities and a range of bedroom options – all at an affordable rate.
Updates
In accordance with the CDC, Valhalla Resort has taken every precaution to help keep our staff and guests both safe and healthy. To learn more, visit our COVID-19 information page.
Find your summer escape at Valhalla Resort and take advantage of our Summer Special. Stay four nights, June through August, and get the fifth night half off! New reservations only. Call 970-586-3284