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Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide
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items With towering peaks, alpine lakes, and incredible wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for outdoor lovers. This guide will help you plan every part of your adventure—from what to pack and where to hike to scenic drives, cozy places ...
Sections
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Stunning Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Guided Tours of Rocky Mountain National Park
Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Where to Eat In & Around Rocky Mountain National Park
RMNP Trip Planning Info
Rocky Mountain National Park Packing List
Stunning Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Explore some of this part of Colorado’s most iconic trails—from easy lake loops to high-elevation climbs like Sky Pond and Flattop Mountain. These hikes highlight the best views, waterfalls, and wildlife RMNP has to offer.
We compiled a list of easy hikes in the park. There are some really easy and accessible hikes that anyone could do. The best part is they still have stunning views!
21 Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
This is easily one of the most popular hikes in the park, so it will be crowded. The payoff is the stunning beauty over a relatively short distance.
Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake
We were lucky enough to catch this lake when it had that milky tourquiose color. It isn't always that way! This hike is shorter at about 4 miles RT, but can be combined with many other spots in the Bear Lake Corridor for a longer day on the trails.
Lake Haiyaha
The hike to Sky Pond is an out and back route starting in the Bear Lake Corridor. There is a ton of variety and it was one of our favorite hikes!
Sky Pond
Instead of heading up towards Sky Pond, you'll take a left at the forks in the trail. This lake was quite peaceful with multiple large rocks broken up by trees along the shore. This provided a little more peace and privacy, which felt like we were co...
Mills Lake
We really loved Sprague Lake at sunrise. You also might get lucky and catch a moose wading in the waters. The trail around the lake is flat and very easy to complete.
Sprague Lake
Guided Tours of Rocky Mountain National Park
Want to explore more with less planning? These guided tours of Rocky Mountain National Park offer expert insight, hassle-free transportation, and the chance to experience the park’s beauty from a new perspective. Whether you're into wildlife watching...
There are no seats with limited views on this tour. You'll also get to enjoy a short hike or 2.
Retractable Glass Top Vehicle Tour
If you want to learn more about the wildlife you'll see in the park, including about their behaviors, this tour could be a great option!
Wildlife Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
Take a break from the park and spend a day exploring Estes Park on an e-bike with a guide.
Estes Park Guided EBike Tour
Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Find the best lodging options in Estes Park, Grand Lake, and inside the park. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin, hotel comfort, or a campsite under the stars, these picks keep you close to the action.
On the Grand Lake side of the park, this is a great budget-friendly stay. Plus, it is hard to beat those views!
Grand Lake Lodge
This place is stunning and located right along the river. We love any place that's next to water, and this one is no different.
The Landing at Estes Park
You'll find fantastic views and amenities here. This is more of a luxury option.
The Estes Park Resort
Where to Eat In & Around Rocky Mountain National Park
Fuel up at local restaurants, breweries, and cafes in Estes Park and Grand Lake. These favorites offer hearty meals and sweet treats after a big day on the trail.
This place has some variety in their menu, and everything is cooked well. Plus, the prices are fairly reasonable, especially being near the National Park.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern: Estes Park
Here, you'll get high quality BBQ, and the sauces are delicious. We loved the pulled pork and ribs.
Smokin' Dave's: Estes Park
Everything we tried here was tasty, both beer and food. This is a must-stop after a long day of hiking.
Rock Cut Brewing Company: Estes Park
With savory and sweet options, this is a great weekend breakfast or lunch spot if you're not in the park.
Rocky Mountain Crepe Company: Estes Park
You can't beat the views, and the food is pretty good< too.
Antlers Rooftop Tavern: Estes Park
The ice cream is small batch and made on site! Need we say more?
Miyauchi's Snack Bar & Ice Cream: Grand Lake
We always love a wood fired pizza, and this place does not disappoint.
Firefly Wood Fired Pizza: Grand Lake
This place is small and cozy but well worth a stop if you're hungry or thirsty in Grand Lake.
The World's End Brewpub: Grand Lake
If you want a more upscale dinner or a delicious cocktail after a day of exploring the mountains, check out this place.
grandmanorllc
RMNP Trip Planning Info
Understand timed entry reservations, trailhead access, shuttle systems, and seasonal closures with these need-to-know planning tips that’ll help your visit go smoothly.
Estes Park and Grand Lake each have their distinct pros and cons. This article will help you decide what vibe you're going for on your trip!
Estes Park vs Grand Lake: Where Should You Stay?
There are tons of opportunities to see wildlife in RMNP, although some are much easier to see than others. We'll help give you the best opportunities to view the wildlife you're after!
Best Places to See Wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park (Elk, Moose, Bighorn Sheep & More)
The drive from Denver to RMNP is pretty easy, but you'll want a car to get from place to place.
How to Get from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park
We'd recommend driving both Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. They're both so scenic with plenty of hikes to stop and do along the way.
5 of The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park
All you need to know about the entry and reservation system can be found here.
Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry
Rocky Mountain National Park Packing List
Weather can shift quickly in the Rockies. This packing guide covers essentials for hiking, changing conditions, and high-altitude adventures—so you’re ready for anything.
This water filter packs so small, is easy to use, and the company is also 100% worth supporting. There are so many places to refill with filtered water so you don't necessarily have to carry so much.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System
These are my absolute favorite hiking socks. The difference between these and other brands is HUGE.
Darn Tough Men's and Women's Hiker Micro Crew Hiking Socks
These poles are so good for the price. The cork really helps absorb moisture from your hands which helps protect against blisters. These are helpful on all those climbs and descents.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
It can be extremely windy at the top of trail ridge road. A windbreaker can save the day!
Windbreaker Jackets
You'll need a daypack to carry all your essentials on your long hikes, and this one is our favorite.
Osprey Daylite Backpack
The bugs can be wicked in some places. Sky Pond was almost unbearable because of little fly creatures.
Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin