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Rocky Mountain National Park
More than 60 peaks of 12,000+ feet give Rocky Mountain Park its name. The park’s many mountains descend into wildflower-strewn tundra, which give way to wildlife-rich forests and wetlands. See it all in a single day!
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Location
Come to Colorado, where 265,770 acres of pristine wilderness make up Rocky Mountain Park.
Flora & Fauna
Life abounds through the park—and its various ecosystems. Catch glimpses of elk, eagles, mule deer, and more.
Did You Know?
The Continental Divide splits the park in half. The east tends to be drier while the west is more heavily forested.
1-Day Itinerary
Wildlife watching at the top of any to-do list in Rocky Mountain National Park: Visit the Sheep Lake area June and July to see bighorn sheep; September through early October is best for elk; try Trail Ridge Road for golden eagles and prairie falcons.
More Time?
- There are 384 miles of scenic roads to choose from in Rocky Mountain Park. Two favorite drives: Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.
- From lakeside strolls to steep climbs, choose from 355 miles of trails. A visitor’s center can help you choose the right hike!
- Sport fishing is popular. You’ll find various trout species in lakes throughout the park.
- Take a trip during mid-July or in early September for a nontechnical climb up the 14,259-foot Longs Peak.
Know Before You Go
- Rocky Mountain National Park roads are 7,500–12,183 feet above sea level, so watch for signs of altitude sickness! Be sure to acclimatize and hydrate often.
- Visit during late June and July to catch the beautiful wildflowers.
Other Parks in the Mountain Region:
Arches National Park–Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park–Utah
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument–Colorado
Glacier National Park–Montana
Grand Teton National Park–Wyoming
Mesa Verde National Park–Colorado
Yellowstone National Park–Wyoming
Zion National Park–Utah
Stay In or Near the Park
Rocky Mountain National Park Hotels
