Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain rewards both drivers and hikers — Trail Ridge Road delivers alpine tundra views without leaving the car, while the Bear Lake trail network holds some of the best short hikes in the Rockies.
Quick Answer
The best things to do in Rocky Mountain are driving Trail Ridge Road, hiking the Bear Lake to Emerald Lake trail chain, watching elk bugle in Moraine Park each fall, spotting moose in Kawuneeche Valley, and stopping at the Alpine Visitor Center.
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in North America, climbing above 12,000 feet across open alpine tundra. The Alpine Visitor Center, at 11,796 feet, is a natural stopping point with short walks and thin-air views.
- Highest continuous paved road in North America
- Alpine Visitor Center at 11,796 feet
- Usually open late May through mid-October
Bear Lake Trail Chain
From the Bear Lake trailhead, an easy path leads to Nymph Lake, then Dream Lake, then Emerald Lake, each stop adding elevation and better mountain reflections. It's one of the most rewarding easy-to-moderate hikes in the Rockies.
Elk And Moose Viewing
Moraine Park and Horseshoe Park are the best spots for elk, especially during the September-October rut when bugling bulls gather harems in open meadows. Kawuneeche Valley, on the west side, is the park's best bet for moose.
Longs Peak
Longs Peak, the park's highest summit at 14,259 feet, is a serious full-day climb for experienced, well-prepared hikers only — most visitors are better served by shorter trails like Sprague Lake, an easy, fully accessible loop with mountain reflections.
Plan And Track This Park
Add Rocky Mountain to your TravelCharted checklist so you can track it with the rest of your national parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park?
The Bear Lake to Emerald Lake trail chain is the park's most popular hiking corridor, offering three scenic lakes on one manageable trail.
When is the best time to see elk in Rocky Mountain National Park?
September and October, during the fall rut, when bulls bugle and gather harems in meadows like Moraine Park and Horseshoe Park.
Is Trail Ridge Road open year-round?
No, it typically closes for winter and reopens around late May, depending on snowpack, remaining open through mid-October.
More National Park Guides
Itinerary
Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary
Plan a Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary with Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road, alpine lakes, Estes Park, Grand Lake, and wildlife viewing.
Where to stay
Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Compare where to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park, including Estes Park and Grand Lake on opposite sides of the park.