National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompasses a spectacular range of mountain environments. From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. Along the way explore over 300 miles of hiking trails and incredible wildlife viewing.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
3.6 mi · 771 ft gain · out & back
Passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before reaching Emerald Lake at 10,111 feet, with views of Flattop Mountain's jagged spires across the alpine water.
Starts at: Bear Lake Trailhead
1.6 mi · 160 ft gain · out & back
A scenic 30-foot waterfall thundering into Glacier Creek through aspen groves and pine forest. One of the most visited trails in the park.
Starts at: Glacier Gorge Trailhead
8.8 mi · 2,849 ft gain · out & back
One of the most difficult trails in the park, ascending to the Continental Divide with views of Dream Lake and Hallett Peak along the way.
Starts at: Bear Lake Trailhead
6.2 mi · 1,410 ft gain · out & back
Summit at 10,006 feet offers scenic views of Longs Peak, Upper Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park, and Estes Park.
Starts at: Deer Ridge Junction
Upcoming Events
Discover Birding on the East Side of RMNP
Are you interested in learning about the many species of birds that call Rocky home? If so, you are invited to join a guided bird walk. Discover migratory and resident birds that call Rocky Mountain National Park home alongside a skilled birder! Join us on the east side of RMNP at 7:30 a.m. at Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead. Participants will meet an experienced guide at the trailhead. The turnoff for Upper Beaver Meadows Road is 2 miles west of the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. Guided bird walks will take place on Saturdays and Wednesdays, beginning in April through mid-August. These programs are free and open to participants of all ages. The program length is approximately 90 minutes. This program will travel up to 1.5 miles through an easy to moderate riparian zone. Binoculars are provided. Participants are encouraged to wear good footwear for walking and hiking. Bring water and snacks. This guided program can be canceled at any time due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Women of Rocky Mountain National Park
Interested in learning about some of the incredible women who played important roles in the history of Rocky Mountain National Park? Join us in the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium, located on the east side of RMNP near Estes Park, Colorado, at 11 a.m. This 1-hour program is free and open to the public. This program is offered in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Conservancy.
Women of Rocky Mountain National Park
Interested in learning about some of the incredible women who have played important roles in the history of Rocky Mountain National Park? Join us in the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium, located on the east side of RMNP, on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2 p.m. This 1-hour program is free and open to the public. This program is offered in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Conservancy.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: April, May
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Weather can change quickly in Rocky Mountain National Park due to the mountains and elevation. Elevation in the park ranges from 7,800 feet above sea level to over 14,000 feet at the top of the tallest mountain peaks. Weather conditions can change quickly throughout the day. For detailed weather information, visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/all-about-weather.htm For the most up-to-date weather forecasts, visit the National Weather Service webpage for Rocky at https://www.weather.gov/bou/rmnp