Because Rocky Mountain National Park is primarily a scenic park, motoring, horseback riding, camping, hiking, snowshoeing and mountain climbing are the most popular activities. Horses and camping equipment can be rented in Estes Park and at Grand Lake. There are no accommodations in the park other than camping.
Many beautiful trails of varying lengths and difficulties traverse these mountains, with stunning mountains, lakes, waterfalls and vistas. Dramatic weather changes can occur rapidly at higher elevations so plenty of water and food, plus gloves, hats, appropriate footwear, rain gear and layers of clothing are recommended. Altitude sickness can be a problem; it helps to drink at least a gallon of water a day, and assess how you are feeling as you climb in elevation.
Information about trails and routes is available at all park visitor centers, or by phoning (970) 586-1206. The park has several easy hikes: Bear Lake Trail is a half-mile loop, Adams Falls and Alberta Falls lead to picturesque waterfalls, and Deer Mountain, while more moderate, is a popular summit hike with beautiful panoramas. Those seeking more challenge will have no trouble finding mid-range and strenuous routes.
Fans of winter recreation also can take advantage of several trails geared toward cold-weather sports. Snowshoe enthusiasts will want to check out the Bear Lake area—the invigorating Emerald Lake Trail is a wonderland in winter, with snowy drifts, frozen lakes and glistening peaks. Cross-country skiers gravitate to the west side of the park where there are many trails with a range of difficulty to choose from.
A permit is required for overnight backcountry trips and bivouac climbs; visitors must obtain a permit at the backcountry office near Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, (970) 586-1242, or the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. Special regulations apply to fishing; inquire at any of the visitor centers. A Colorado fishing license is required.
Free ranger-led programs are conducted year-round; see the park newspaper for schedules. An orientation film is shown every half-hour in summer and by request in winter at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and Kawuneeche Visitor Center.
Illustrated talks and campfire programs are sometimes presented in the major campgrounds during the summer.
There are lots of sites and activities within the park that mesmerize kids. Short trails like Moraine Park and Sprague Lake captivate youngsters, as does the Beaver Boardwalk near the foot of Trail Ridge Road. Glimpses of wandering elk, scurrying chipmunks and bighorn sheep also entice children, as does scrambling across boulders on Gem Lake Trail, gazing at flowers near Cub Lake or saddling up on a gentle horse for a trail ride. The Junior Ranger program offers a variety of hikes and talks that focus on the park's environment, geology and wildlife—during one talk, kids can touch the skulls and skins of such animals as bighorn sheep, moose and elk. For details about ranger-led programs geared toward youngsters, pick up a park newspaper or inquire at one of the visitor centers.
Schedules of activities are available at ranger stations and visitor centers.
Note: Accessibility to roads and trails within the park may be affected by weather conditions. Phone (970) 586-1242 for the Backcountry Office or (970) 586-1222 for Trail Ridge Road status updates.
PETS
PETS are prohibited in all areas of the park not accessible by motor vehicles, including all trails and meadows.