ROCKY MOUNTAIN
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 265,807 ACRES

EST. 01 26 1915

COLORADO

Planning a Trip to
Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Colorado. It is known for its spectacular mountain peaks, alpine lakes, lush meadows, and abundant wildlife. Here are some of the best things about Rocky Mountain National Park: 1. Amazing Views: With its towering peaks, Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the most breathtaking views in the entire US. From the top of Longs Peak, you can see across the entire park and beyond. 2. Abundant Wildlife: Rocky Mountain National Park is home to hundreds of species of animals, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and marmots. It's a great place to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.3. Hiking Trails: The park has over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. You can explore untouched forests, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.4. Camping: You can get even closer to nature by camping in the park. Whether you prefer camping in a tent or an RV, there are plenty of camping sites in Rocky Mountain National Park. 5. Fishing: Rocky Mountain National Park is an angler's paradise.

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks" - John Muir

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings" - John Muir

"The mountains are calling and I must go" - John Muir

"Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit" - Edward Abbey

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings" - John Muir

"Nature is not a place to visit. It is home" - Gary Snyder

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for hiking and camping is in the summer and early fall, when temperatures are mild and snow is melted. For wildlife viewing, the park is most active in the spring and early summer when animals are out of hibernation. For winter activities, like snowshoeing and skiing, the park is best visited in late fall and early winter when snow is deep and temperatures are cold. For photography, the park is most beautiful in late fall and early spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and the colors are vibrant. No matter the season, Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning destination to explore.

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is between May and October, when temperatures are mild and the days are long. During this time, the park's wildlife is most active and you can take advantage of the various activities available, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. Additionally, the park's wildflowers are in full bloom during this period, and you can witness the park's beautiful scenery in all its glory. To maximize your experience, plan to arrive early in the morning, when the animals are most active, and stay until late in the evening.

OVERVIEW

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most captivating natural wonders in the United States. Spanning over 265,000 acres in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the park is home to over 300 miles of hiking trails, spectacular mountain peaks, and an abundance of wildlife. Some of the most interesting facts about the park include its elevation range from 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet, the presence of five different ecosystems, and the presence of over 60 different species of mammals. The park is also home to more than 1,000 species of plants and is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.

WEATHER

Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its beautiful and diverse weather year round. In the summer months the temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 80s during the day and dip to the mid-30s at night. Winter temperatures range from the mid-30s during the day to the single digits at night. Snowfall is common in the winter months and can accumulate up to several feet in some areas of the park. The park is also home to diverse wildlife including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, so no matter the season, visitors can always enjoy the great outdoors.

Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its unique geography, which was created by the extreme weather of the region. During the last Ice Age, the area was covered with glaciers that carved out deep valleys and jagged peaks. The drastic temperature changes between summer and winter also led to the formation of numerous alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Additionally, the low levels of moisture in the air and the high elevation lead to the presence of snowfields, glaciers, and permanent snowfields on the highest peaks. All of this unique geography has helped make Rocky Mountain National Park one of the most beautiful and diverse parks in the United States.

GEAR

1. Hiking boots: Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its rugged terrain, so having a pair of good hiking boots is essential. 2. Water: With many trails and activities available, it’s important to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. 3. Sunscreen: The higher elevation of Rocky Mountain National Park makes it especially susceptible to the sun’s rays, so sunscreen is a must. 4. Snacks: Bring along some snacks to keep your energy up while exploring the park. 5. Rain gear: Rocky Mountain National Park experiences all kinds of weather, so it’s important to bring rain gear in case of a sudden downpour. 6. Camera: Capture the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with a camera or smartphone. 7. Map: A map of the park is essential for finding your way around. 8. Insect repellent: Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a variety of insects, so having some insect repellent is a good idea. 9. First-aid kit: Bring a first-aid kit in case of any minor injuries. 10. Flashlight: A flashlight is a great tool for exploring the

Rocky Mountain National Park is a great destination for backpacking and camping. To fully enjoy your experience, it’s important to bring the right gear. Here is a list of the top 10 best items to bring: 1. A sturdy and comfortable backpack: Make sure your pack is large enough to fit all your supplies and is comfortable and supportive.2. A waterproof tent: Having a tent that can withstand rain and wind will ensure you stay warm and dry during your trip.3. Sleeping bag: Pick a sleeping bag that is rated for the temperatures you will be facing.4. Hiking boots: Make sure to break in your boots before the trip to avoid blisters.5. Flashlight or headlamp: You’ll need light for navigating in the dark.6. Water filter: A water filter will help you stay hydrated during your trips.7. Map and compass: You’ll need these to find your way around the park.8. First-aid kit: It’s always better to be safe than sorry.9. Fire starter: This will help you build a fire to keep you warm and cook your food. 10. Long lasting multi-use flashlight.

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HISTORY

Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915, making it one of the oldest and most beloved national parks in the United States. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. The park is also home to some of the highest peaks in the Rocky Mountains, including Longs Peak, at 14,259 feet. One of the most interesting facts about Rocky Mountain National Park is that it contains over 300 miles of hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the park is home to more than 60 lakes and numerous waterfalls, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also take part in a variety of activities, such as fishing, camping, and horseback riding. Rocky Mountain National Park is a picturesque destination with a rich history and plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with legendary stories. From the incredible wildlife that inhabits the park, to the stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring views, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of the most memorable stories is that of the Great Horned Owl, which can be seen soaring above the park's majestic peaks. Also, the legend of the "Sleeping Ute" speaks of a brave warrior who still watches over the park from the summit of Longs Peak. Lastly, the story of the "Great Divide" tells of how the park was formed by two powerful rivers, the Colorado and the Roaring Fork, coming together to create a stunning landscape. All of these stories help to make Rocky Mountain National Park a truly unique and amazing place.

One of the most famous stories is the legend of the “Rocky Mountain Ghost,” a mysterious figure said to haunt the area. Another story tells of a band of bandits who hid out in the mountains and took refuge in a hidden cave. There are also stories of trappers, miners, and climbers who braved the Rocky Mountains and made their mark on the area. Each story is unique and captures the beauty and grandeur of the Rocky Mountain National Park.

RECOMMENDED

1. Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the US. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the alpine tundra. 2. Visit Bear Lake for great hiking and beautiful scenery. 3. Go fishing in one of the park's many lakes and streams. 4. Take a ranger-led hike to learn more about the park's wildlife and history. 5. Have a picnic at one of the many picnic areas. 6. Take a horseback ride through the park's meadows and forests. 7. Climb Longs Peak, the park's highest peak. 8. Go camping in the park's many campgrounds. 9. Take a boat tour of the park's lakes. 10. Enjoy some of the park's many waterfalls.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful place to explore all year round! Here are our top 10 recommendations for different seasons at the park:

Spring: Hike to the summit of Longs Peak, take a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road, explore the tundra on the Alpine Visitor Center Trail, or spot wildlife at Bear Lake.

Summer: Enjoy the many trails and lakes of the park, go rafting on the Colorado River, camp in the backcountry, or take part in one of the ranger-led activities.

Fall: Enjoy the changing colors of the season, take a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road, watch the elk rutting at Horseshoe Park, or explore the meadows around Estes Park.

Winter: Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, take a ranger-led snowshoe tour, see the frozen lakes of the park, or enjoy a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road.

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

Rocky Mountain National Park offers visitors a variety of activities and experiences. Here are the top 10 best things to do when visiting the park: 1. Hike a variety of trails, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous treks. 2. Take in stunning views at the Alpine Visitor Center. 3. Fish in one of the park’s many lakes and streams. 4. Go wildlife watching and look for elk, moose, deer, and more. 5. Climb Longs Peak, the highest summit in the park. 6. Enjoy a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road. 7. Take a ranger-led program or hike to learn more about the park. 8. Camp in one of the park’s campgrounds or backcountry sites. 9. Enjoy the outdoors with activities like biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. 10. Visit the historic Grand Lake Lodge, a popular destination since the early 1900s.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of extreme activities for thrill-seekers. From zip-lining to ice climbing, here are the top 10 extreme activities to experience in the park: 1. Zip-lining: Soar through the air on a zip-line ride over the park’s amazing scenery. 2. Ice Climbing: Take on the challenge of scaling a frozen waterfall or towering ice wall. 3. Rock Climbing: Explore the park’s many vertical faces and routes with a guided rock climbing trip. 4. Heli-skiing: Feel the rush of skiing down an untouched mountain run with a heli-skiing tour. 5. Mountain Biking: Take on the park’s rugged terrain with a challenging mountain bike ride. 6. Paragliding: Get an aerial view of the park while soaring through the air on a paragliding tour. 7. Snowmobiling: Feel the power of a snowmobile as you explore the rugged backcountry. 8. Hiking: Experience the thrill of scaling one of the park’s 14,000-foot peaks. 9. Whitewater Rafting: Enjoy

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# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular parks in the United States, attracting over 4 million visitors annually. The park is most popular during the summer months when the weather is warm and the hiking trails are accessible. On average, the park sees over 350,000 visitors each month from April to October, with the peak month of July bringing in nearly 700,000 visitors. During the winter months, the number of visitors drops significantly to around 50,000 visitors per month. Regardless of the season, the park remains a popular destination for visitors of all ages.