Rocky Mountain National Park Guide

Your comprehensive guide to one of America's most spectacular national parks. From iconic peaks to alpine lakes, discover everything you need to plan the perfect mountain adventure.

Timed Entry Permit Required: From late May through mid-October, you'll need a timed entry permit to enter the park between 9 AM and 3 PM. Reserve at Recreation.gov up to 90 days in advance.

Entrance Fee

$30

Per vehicle (7 days)

Elevation

7,860 - 14,259 ft

Longs Peak summit

Size

265,807

Acres of wilderness

Open

24/7

Year-round access

Plan by Season

Summer (June - August)

Peak season with full access and wildflowers

What to Expect

All roads and trails open. Peak crowds, especially weekends. Timed entry permits required. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Wildflowers bloom throughout July and August.

Best Activities

Alpine HikingTrail Ridge RoadWildflower ViewingBackcountry CampingRock Climbing

Pro Tips

Start hikes before 7 AM to beat crowds and afternoon storms. Book timed entry permits 90 days in advance. Bring rain gear and sun protection.

Complete Wildflower Season Guide →

Explore bloom calendars, best viewing locations, and flower identification cards

Must-Do Experiences

Trail Ridge Road

Highest continuous paved road in North America

This 48-mile scenic drive reaches 12,183 feet elevation, offering breathtaking views above treeline. Stop at overlooks to spot wildlife and enjoy tundra landscapes. Allow 3-4 hours for the full drive with stops.

Open late May - mid October

Bear Lake Area

Gateway to stunning alpine lakes

The park's most popular area features easy to moderate hikes to Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and more. Arrive before 7 AM or use the park shuttle to avoid parking challenges.

Year-round access

Wildlife Viewing

See elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and more

RMNP is home to 60+ mammal species. Best viewing at dawn and dusk in Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, and along Trail Ridge Road. Always maintain safe distances: 75 feet from elk, 120 feet from moose and bears.

Best: Fall & Spring

Alpine Tundra

Rare ecosystem above treeline

Experience the fragile tundra ecosystem at 11,000+ feet. Tiny wildflowers bloom in July. Stay on designated trails to protect this delicate environment that takes decades to recover from damage.

Summer only

Kawuneeche Valley

Premier moose viewing on the west side

The park's west side is THE destination for moose viewing. This peaceful valley along the Colorado River features extensive willow habitat where moose feed throughout the day. Much less crowded than the east side.

Year-round access

Longs Peak Summit

Colorado's most iconic 14er and ultimate alpine challenge

At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the park's highest summit and one of Colorado's most sought-after fourteeners. The Keyhole Route is a challenging Class 3 scramble requiring route-finding skills, exposure tolerance, and excellent conditioning. This is serious mountaineering—not a hike.

Very HardJuly-September