To feel like you are really in the heart of the mountains, head to the only entrance on the park’s west side, the Grand Lake Entrance. Located just a couple minutes from Grand Lake, the Grand Lake Entrance is arguably the parks’ best-kept secret.
Which side of Rocky Mountain National Park is better?
The east side is generally regarded as having the better scenery, and certainly the mountains/lakes are easier to reach from the east side trails.
Where is the prettiest part of the Rocky Mountains?
Top Picture Worthy Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park
- Bear Lake.
- Dream Lake.
- Sprague Lake.
- Alberta Falls.
- Gore Range Overlook (Trail Ridge Road)
- Moraine Park.
What are the best views in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Gore Range Overlook, at an elevation of 12,010 feet, offers one of the most expansive views in Rocky Mountain National Park. When conditions are good, the vista stretches 50 miles or more, and encompasses a stunning panorama of Rocky Mountain National Park’s highest peaks.
Where should I stay on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park?
There is no lodging in Rocky Mountain National Park, but there are five campgrounds to choose from. The Aspen Glen, Glacier Basin, Longs Peak and Moraine Park campgrounds are all on the park’s east side.
Is it better to stay in Grand Lake or Estes Park?
Both Estes Park and Grand Lake are great options for where to stay when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is livelier and gives you better access to in particular the Bear Lake area. On the other hand Grand Lake is the more peaceful option that feels further away from it all.
What is the difference between Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park?
The easy, honest answer is: “It’s free! Estes Park is a town—you can come and go as you please.” Rocky Mountain National Park (a different type of park all on its own) does require a timed-entry permit (plus an entrance pass).
How many days do you need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?
Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. This gives you enough time to drive Alpine Ridge Road, Old Fall River Road, and hike a few of the trails. If you are an avid hiker, I recommend spending five or more days in Rocky Mountain National Park.
What is the most beautiful part of Colorado?
The 15 Most Beautiful Places in Colorado
- GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK.
- GARDEN OF THE GODS.
- CRESTED BUTTE.
- MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK.
- BRIDAL VEIL FALLS.
- HANGING LAKE.
- MAROON BELLS.
- ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK.
How long does it take to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?
about 2 hours
How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Rocky Mountain National Park? You can drive from one end of Rocky Mountain National Park to the other in about 2 hours if you don’t make any stops.
Can you drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?
The Rocky Mountain National Park Scenic Loop is 164 miles of pure mountain adventure. This four-hour drive will take you from Denver to Estes Park, through Rocky Mountain National Park on the magnificent Trail Ridge Road and then through Grand Lake, Granby and Fraser to Winter Park.
What is the best time of year to visit the Rocky Mountains?
The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is from June to September when the snow is (mostly) melted and the hiking trails and attractions are accessible.
Can you drive through Estes Park?
Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US, is the most famous scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park – a day trip not to miss through high alpine tundra panoramas! Even driving up to Estes Park from Colorado’s Front Range is scenic!
Where should I stay if I want to go to Rocky Mountain National Park?
Your best bets are its two gateway towns—Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west. Both offer plenty of options, and it’s simple enough to commute from the towns into the heart of the park.
Where should I stay hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park?
12 Best Hotels Near Rocky Mountain National Park
- The Estes Park Resort.
- The Landing at Estes Park.
- Woodlands on Fall River.
- The Maxwell Inn.
- StoneBrook Resort.
- Murphy’s Resort.
- Boulder Brook on Fall River.
- Murphy’s River Lodge.
Are there any waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Horseshoe Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park is an extensive cascade waterfall, named for the way it bends its course through the rocky hillside. It is a short and easy family-favorite hike near Estes Park, Colorado which starts from the Alluvial Fan Trailhead but also be viewed from the roadside.
Is Estes Park too touristy?
Estes Park is a year-round travel destination. And while most tourists come in summer, locals will tell you that visiting in winter is a special experience: there are fewer crowds, the mountains are covered in a beautiful snowy blanket, and there are plenty of winter-focused outdoor activities to keep you busy.
Which is better Colorado Springs or Estes Park?
Both r great places but if you love to hike, Estes Park hands down. It’s adjacent to RMNP with some beautiful hikes to waterfalls and lakes. If u want to explore CO Springs, you can do that in a day and go to Garden of the Gods. I would pick Estes Park/RMNP over Colorado Springs, which is not in the mountains.
Is Trail Ridge Road scary to drive?
Peaking at 12,183 feet, Trail Ridge Road offers breathtaking views, but it can be very intimidating for those who have a fear of heights, like me. I’ve wanted to do this drive with my husband for quite some time now but I had so many questions and concerns.
What is special about Estes Park?
Estes Park, just 90 minutes from Denver, is located at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. A majestic mountain destination known for outdoor adventure, watchable wildlife and scenic beauty, Estes Park is Colorado’s quintessential mountain town.
Are there moose in Estes Park?
Into the wilderness guests may glimpse one of the park’s most mysterious animals, the moose. Most often seen past Trail Ridge Road’s Alpine Visitor Center, on the western side of the park, these incredible creatures can occasionally be spotted in the Wild Basin area, near Cub Lake or along Fall River Road.
