How much time do I need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?
three full days

Spending three full days in the park is ideal if you want to hit all of the main attractions in Rocky Mountain and really enjoy the picturesque landscapes.The good news is, even if you only have a weekend you can pack in a ton of incredible scenery, gorgeous hikes and picture-perfect Rocky Mountain sunrises and sunsets. We've put together a 2-day itinerary of our favorite things to do in the park from sunrise missions to scenic drives to horseback riding.If you only have one day in the park, it is recommended that you enter through the east side of the park, at Estes Park, and exit in the west, at Grand Lake. Make sure you stop at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center for information and displays.

How long does it take to go through the Rocky Mountains : Your adventure through the Rockies will take, at the very least, 5-6 days just to get from start to finish—with only minimal stops in between. Depending on the route and how many side trips you decide to make, this epic road trip could take anywhere from 8-12 days to get the full experience.

What is the best month to visit the Rocky Mountains

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is during the summer from mid-June to mid-August or in the fall from mid-September to mid-October, however, these are also the busiest times at the park.

Do I need a time entry for Rocky Mountain National Park : If you are visiting Rocky Mountain National Park between late May and mid-October, a timed-entry permit is required between 5am-6pm for Bear Lake Road Corridor, and between 9am and 2pm for the rest of the park.

approximately 1.5 to 2 hours

If you choose to drive the full length of this scenic pass through to Estes Park, the drive will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Visions From Your Vehicle

Wonders abound inside Rocky Mountain National Park-many of which can be enjoyed without donning a backpack and hiking deep into the interior. Just hop in the car and hit the road! Several scenic drives originate on the park's east side near Estes Park.

How long does it take to drive the Rocky Mountain National Park Loop

four-hour

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.Can you drive to Rocky Mountain National Park in one day Yes, you can. However, it's not really the best way to enjoy all the sights the park has to offer. I recommend that you spend a few days within the park to check out the scenery and go on a few hikes.Top Picture Worthy Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Bear Lake. As a true classic, Bear Lake is a popular stop for many visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Dream Lake.
  • Sprague Lake.
  • Alberta Falls.
  • Gore Range Overlook (Trail Ridge Road)
  • Moraine Park.


Best Time to Visit

After analyzing visitor data and trends, it becomes evident that the least busy day at Rocky Mountain National Park is typically a Tuesday or Wednesday in the off-peak months, such as November through April.

Can you just drive through Rocky Mountain National Park : Visions From Your Vehicle

Wonders abound inside Rocky Mountain National Park-many of which can be enjoyed without donning a backpack and hiking deep into the interior. Just hop in the car and hit the road! Several scenic drives originate on the park's east side near Estes Park.

What’s the difference between Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park : Estes Park is a town, not a park, next to Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is best known as “the gateway to the Rockies,” as well as the National Park. When people plan their visit to RMNP, typically they make Estes Park their home base because the town is near three of the main entrances into the park.

How long does it take to drive around Rocky Mountains

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.

Trail Ridge Road

Completed in 1933, Trail Ridge Road links Estes Park and Grand Lake, winding past countless 12,000-foot peaks, high-alpine tundra, and some of Rocky Mountain National Parks best views. Known appropriately as the Highway to the Sky, Trail Ridge Road crosses the Continental Divide at a whopping 12,183 feet.Bear Lake Road is one of the most popular areas in Rocky Mountain National Park and is a gorgeous drive.

What should you not miss in Rocky Mountain National Park : 10 Best Things to Do on a Rocky Mountain National Park Vacation

  • Go for a Hike. Hiker hiking on Chasm Lake Trail.
  • Watch for Wildlife. Rocky Mountain ElkDeposit Photos.
  • Take a Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road.
  • See a Waterfall.
  • Gaze Upon Mountain Peaks.
  • Go Camping.
  • Take a Guided Tour.