Rocky Mountain National Park
Find your kind of adventure among soaring peaks, still alpine lakes, and forest trails. From waterfall walks to alpine adventures, explore at your own pace.
Find your trail
Waterfall strolls, forest paths, and alpine adventures. Find the hike that fits your day.
Copeland Falls
0.6 miles round trip · Easy
A short forest walk for a gentle introduction to Wild Basin.
Calypso Cascades
3.6 miles round trip · Easy to moderate
Follow the creek to a beautiful cascade through the trees.
Ouzel Falls
5.4 miles round trip · Moderate
A waterfall adventure for a memorable morning on the trail.
Bluebird Lake
12.6 miles round trip · Challenging
Make a full day of it with a rewarding hike into the high country.
Thunder Lake
12.4 miles round trip · Challenging
A longer alpine adventure for a full day on the trail.
Copeland Falls
Bluebird Lake
Thunder Lake
Find your kind of adventure among soaring peaks, still alpine lakes, and forest trails. From a gentle waterfall walk to a full day in the mountains, Rocky Mountain National Park invites you to slow down and explore.
Your gateway to Wild Basin
Stay in Allenspark and explore the park’s quieter side. The Wild Basin entrance leads to forested trails, cascading waterfalls, and rewarding alpine adventures.
Spend the day exploring. Return to Starfall & Pine to unwind beneath the stars.
Ouzel Falls
Calypso Cascades
Scenic Drives
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Take the scenic route through mountain towns, evergreen forests, and sweeping alpine views. Pause for overlooks and photography along the way.
Trail Ridge Road
Journey above the treeline for tundra landscapes and Continental Divide views. This seasonal drive is a highlight for a full day of exploring.
Highway 7 Scenic Corridor
Explore the stretch between Lyons, Allenspark, and Estes Park, with granite cliffs, forested hillsides, and a stop at Chapel on the Rock.
Check current road conditions and seasonal access before setting out.
Trail Ridge Road
Wildlife in the Park
Look for moose, elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and smaller mountain residents such as marmots and pikas.
Early mornings and evenings offer a lovely time to watch quietly. Give every animal plenty of space, and never approach or feed wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
Spring
Waterfalls surge with snowmelt, wildlife becomes more active, and wildflowers begin to bloom.
Summer
Ideal for hiking, fishing, camping, photography, and ranger programs.
Fall
Golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and the unforgettable sound of bugling elk make autumn one of the park's most popular seasons.
Winter
Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, peaceful trails, frozen waterfalls, and dramatic snowy landscapes await adventurous visitors.
Tips for Your Visit
Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer—plan high-elevation hikes for the morning.
Bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
Stay hydrated. Much of the park sits above 8,000 feet.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never feed animals.
Leave No Trace by packing out everything you bring in.
Know Before You Go: Check the official Rocky Mountain National Park website for the latest timed-entry reservations, road conditions, trail closures, weather, and seasonal alerts before your visit.