Rocky Mountain National Park was established January 26, 1915. Since then, countless people have experienced its 416 square miles full of adventure including hiking, climbing, camping, backcountry, fishing, snowshoeing, wildlife watching, and more!

With over 359 miles of trail there is endless opportunities for hikers, backpackers and horseback riders. 60 peaks rising above 12,000 feet challenge hikers and climbers. If you'd rather see these peaks the easy way you can stay in your car and drive over Trail Ridge Road and see these peaks eye to eye. Trail Ridge Road is the highest, continuous, paved road in the United States topping out at 12,183 feet above sea level.

The Mountains aren't the only sights to see either! View Elk, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, coyotes, cougars, eagles, hawks and scores of smaller animals!! In June and July the meadows and hillsides are splashed with botanical color. Autumn visitors can relax among the golden aspens or enjoy the rowdier antics of the elk rut (mating season).

Front-country and backcountry campers have hundreds of campsites to choose from. Civilization and its amenities are available in the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake which flank the park on the east and west sides respectively. Ranger-led activities are an entertaining way to learn more about your surroundings. Plan some time to acclimate to the high altitude and come find your adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Hiking: Quite possibly the most popular activity in RMNP due to the range of hikes available to those who are complete newbies or experienced hikers. If you are new to the park, rangers at the visitor centers and backcountry office can provide advice on trails that are appropriate for different fitness and experience levels. [more...]

Driving: Trail Ridge Road (U.S. 34) offers thrilling views, wildlife sightings and spectacular alpine wildflower exhibitions, all from the comfort of your car. Trail Ridge Road spans 48 miles between Estes Park on the park's east side and Grand Lake on the west side. Old Fall River Road is a must see as well. Old Fall River Road leads travelers from Horseshoe Park (a short distance west of the Fall River Entrance) through the park's wilderness to Fall River Pass, 11,796 feet above sea level. [more...]

Camping: 'Roughing it' is a treat in Rocky Mountain National Park. You get incredible views and the opportunity to soak up even more of the park experience. There are five drive-in campgrounds and one drive-in group camping area in the park. Two campgrounds, Moraine Park and Glacier Basin, take reservations, as does the group-camping area. [more...]

Wildlife Viewing: The abundant large-animal population makes Rocky Mountain National Park one of the country's top wildlife watching destinations. There is also nearly 60 other species of mammals; more than 280 recorded bird species; six amphibians, including the federally endangered boreal toad; one reptile (the harmless garter snake); 11 species of fish; and countless insects, including a surprisingly large number of butterflies. [more...]

Winter Fun: Winter recreation in the park is gaining popularity. Explore the park on snow shoes or while cross country skiing. The experience of getting into the parks trail system in the winter is amazing! Hidden Valley has a 'winter play' area suitable for sledding. Make sure to contact any visitor center in advance to check on conditions for any winter activity you're planning in the park. [more...]