The Rockies
Lead me to the rock
THAT IS HIGHER THAN I
-Psalm 61:2
Rocky Mountain National Park, located in the heart of Colorado’s Front Range, is one of the nation’s most stunning natural wonders. Spanning over 415 square miles, the park is home to some of the highest peaks in North America, including the renowned Longs Peak, which stands at an impressive 14,259 feet. Visitors flock to the park year-round to experience its diverse landscapes, from lush montane valleys to windswept alpine tundra. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, adventurers can explore thick forests, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and encounter wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. The scenic Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, climbs to an elevation of 12,183 feet, offering breathtaking views of the park's dramatic terrain and making it a favorite for road trippers and photographers.
As one of the most visited national parks in the United States, Rocky Mountain National Park attracts over 4.5 million visitors annually. Its diverse ecosystems are home to more than 1,000 plant species and 280 bird species, adding to its ecological richness. The park boasts over 60 peaks that rise above 12,000 feet, providing unparalleled opportunities for both casual hikers and seasoned mountaineers. Established in 1915, the park has become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round activities including hiking, wildlife watching, snowshoeing, and scenic drives. Whether exploring its tranquil valleys or scaling its rugged peaks, Rocky Mountain National Park continues to captivate visitors with its majestic beauty and endless adventure opportunities.
Here are some fun and interesting facts about Rocky Mountain National Park that the kids learned from the Park Rangers:
Super High Elevation: Rocky Mountain National Park has some of the highest mountains in the U.S. The tallest, Longs Peak, is over 14,000 feet high! That's like stacking nearly 10 Empire State Buildings on top of each other.
Amazing Wildlife: The park is home to all sorts of cool animals! You might spot elk, bighorn sheep, and even moose. Plus, in the summertime, hundreds of butterflies fill the air, including the Rocky Mountain Parnassian butterfly, which is only found in the park.
Trail Ridge Road – Highway to the Sky: The park’s Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in North America, reaching over 12,000 feet. While driving, you can see everything from forests to tundra, all in one trip. You’ll feel like you're on top of the world!
A Real Life Ice Age: Believe it or not, the landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park was shaped by glaciers from the Ice Age. Some of the park's alpine lakes, like Bear Lake, were formed by giant glaciers long ago.
Starry Skies: The park is one of the best places to stargaze. On clear nights, you can see thousands of stars, including the Milky Way, without any light pollution. You might even see shooting stars!
A Paradise for Climbers: Rocky Mountain National Park is a favorite place for rock climbers. Some of the rock formations are over a billion years old, making them perfect spots for adventurers to test their climbing skills.
Oldest Tree in the Park: One of the oldest living trees in the park is over 1,600 years old! It's a twisted and weathered Bristlecone Pine tree that has survived everything from harsh winds to freezing temperatures.
Where we stayed
Manor RV Park in Estes Park, Colorado, is a peaceful retreat located just minutes from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. With full hookups, spacious sites, and modern amenities, it's an ideal spot for RV travelers seeking both comfort and convenience. Surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, the park offers stunning views, frequent wildlife sightings, and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and sightseeing. We were lucky enough to spot ten elk just 20 feet from our RV! The park also features picnic areas, a clubhouse, and free Wi-Fi, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure. The kids' favorite part was the nearby river, where they spent hours jumping across rocks and building dams. Its close proximity to Estes Park’s charming downtown further enhances its appeal, with easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
The wildlife
Rocky Mountain National Park is a wildlife haven, home to a wide array of animals that thrive in its diverse ecosystems. Visitors are often treated to sightings of majestic elk, particularly in the fall during the rutting season, when their bugling calls echo through the valleys. Bighorn sheep, the park's official symbol, can be seen scaling steep cliffs, while moose wade through the wetlands near rivers and lakes. Black bears and coyotes also roam the park, though they are more elusive. In the alpine tundra, smaller creatures like marmots and pika scurry across the rocks. Bird enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, from soaring golden eagles to colorful mountain bluebirds. The park’s rich biodiversity makes it a prime location for observing wildlife in their natural habitats, providing a thrilling experience for nature lovers.
Timed Reservations
Rocky Mountain National Park has implemented a timed entry system to help manage the high volume of visitors and protect the park’s natural resources. From late May through early October, visitors are required to reserve an entry time in advance to access the park. There are two types of permits: one for access to the Bear Lake Road Corridor and the rest of the park, and another for the areas outside the Bear Lake Corridor. Most of the places we wanted to visit needed this Bear Lake pass. This system helps to reduce crowding, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for visitors while minimizing environmental impact. By securing a timed entry pass, guests can plan their visit more effectively, avoiding peak congestion times and making the most of their time exploring the park’s stunning landscapes. If you arrive outside of your reserved time frame, you may be notified by a park ranger that you have missed your reservation window and you will be asked to come back after 2 p.m.
Visitor Centers
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to several visitor centers that enhance the experience of exploring its natural wonders. The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, located near the town of Estes Park, serves as the park’s main visitor center and offers exhibits, maps, and educational films about the park's history and ecosystems. For those entering from the west side, the Kawuneeche Visitor Center near Grand Lake provides information on wildlife and the park’s alpine environment. The Alpine Visitor Center, situated at 11,796 feet along Trail Ridge Road, is the highest elevation visitor center in the U.S. and offers breathtaking panoramic views along with exhibits on the fragile alpine tundra. Finally, the Fall River Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and insights into the park’s geology and wildlife. Each visitor center provides resources, educational materials, and ranger-led programs, making them perfect starting points for any park adventure.
Here are some of the top hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park that are under 5 miles:
Bear Lake Loop (0.6 miles) – A short, easy loop around a picturesque alpine lake, perfect for all ages and abilities with stunning mountain views.
Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes (3.6 miles round-trip) – This popular trail takes you past three beautiful lakes, each offering unique scenery, including reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Alberta Falls (1.6 miles round-trip) – A family-friendly hike leading to one of the park's most iconic waterfalls, especially vibrant in spring and early summer.
Sprague Lake (0.8 miles) – A flat, easy loop around a serene lake with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy reflections of the Continental Divide.
Cub Lake (4.8 miles round-trip) – A scenic hike through meadows, forests, and by small ponds, ending at Cub Lake, which is known for its abundance of water lilies.
Gem Lake (3.5 miles round-trip) – A moderate hike with some elevation gain, leading to a small, secluded lake surrounded by dramatic rock formations.
Tundra Communities Trail (1.0 mile round-trip) – A short, accessible trail near the Alpine Visitor Center, offering panoramic views of the tundra and surrounding peaks.
Day 1:
Kep Expedition 4.5-Hour Guided Tour
Our adventure began with a 4.5-hour guided tour from Kep Expeditions, a local company in Estes Park known for offering immersive outdoor experiences in the breathtaking surroundings of Rocky Mountain National Park. Specializing in personalized guided tours, Kep Expeditions caters to adventurers of all skill levels with activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and snowshoeing. Their expert guides provide fascinating insights into the park's unique ecology, geology, and history, making each tour both educational and adventurous. Our guide, Garry, led us on a private small group tour, taking us along the less-traveled back roads to the alpine regions, including a visit to Fall River Pass and the Alpine Visitor Center—the highest visitor center in the National Park Service—at an elevation of 11,796 feet. Along the way, we traveled the famous Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, which reaches a staggering elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. He also provided a special treat at the highest point of the trip… yummy fruit fondue!
Following the Tour: Homeschool at Kind Coffee
After the tour, we headed to Kind Coffee, a cozy, eco-conscious café nestled along the Big Thompson River in Estes Park. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability, it was the perfect spot for a homeschool session. While the kids worked on their school activities, we enjoyed freshly brewed organic coffee and delicious baked goods. With its focus on fair-trade beans and eco-friendly practices, Kind Coffee offers a peaceful, community-driven environment that invites you to stay awhile. After finishing our schoolwork, we took some time to relax and soak in the peaceful riverside ambiance.
Evening Hike: Lily Lake Trail
Once Drew was off work, we ventured out for an evening hike just minutes from our RV at Lily Lake Trail. This family-friendly, 0.8-mile loop is a flat, well-maintained path that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene Lily Lake. While we didn't spot any wildlife on this outing, we kept our eyes on the treeline, hopeful for a glimpse of the local fauna. The lake itself provided a tranquil reflection of nearby peaks, including the towering Longs Peak, creating a picture-perfect scene. For those craving a bit more adventure, there are optional spur trails like the Lily Ridge Trail that lead to higher viewpoints. Though we veered slightly off the main path, dinner plans called, and we opted to save the full Ridge Trail for another day.
Day 2:
Dream Lake Trail
We had a timed reservation for Bear Lake from 8-10 a.m. and managed to find a parking spot in the Bear Lake lot—a stroke of luck, as it fills up quickly, especially in summer. The hike to Dream Lake is one of the most popular and scenic trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Starting at the Bear Lake Trailhead, the 2.2-mile round-trip hike takes you through a dense forest, past the shimmering Nymph Lake, and leads to the stunning Dream Lake, nestled beneath towering peaks. However, 0.6 miles into our hike, a sudden rainstorm swept through the park, forcing us to change our plans. We sought shelter at the Moraine Park Discovery Center, where we enjoyed the mist-covered peaks and the refreshed landscape from a safe spot. The Discovery Center, a historic building with interactive exhibits on the park’s landscape, a bookstore, and a nature trail, made for a perfect detour. The kids completed their Junior Ranger books and were sworn in by the sweetest ranger, who enthusiastically showed them bones, horns, animal scat molds, and wildlife photos. They even colored wildlife postcards while learning how to protect the park’s natural resources. Though we couldn’t finish the Dream Lake hike, we plan to return in the coming days to complete it.
Homeschool Session at Kind Coffee
After the storm passed, we reunited with Drew, who had spent the morning working at Kind Coffee, and dove into our homeschool session. The kids, while sipping hot chocolate and snickerdoodle cookies, couldn’t help but remark, “If we were back home in Argyle, we wouldn’t get to hike in the morning and then do schoolwork in a coffee shop!” The combination of nature, learning, and relaxation in such a unique setting has been a highlight of our trip, and the kids are already dreading returning to public school. This homeschooling lifestyle, especially in such beautiful locations, will be hard to leave behind.
Historic Park Theater
That evening, we visited the Historic Park Theater in Estes Park, one of the oldest continuously operating movie theaters in the United States, dating back to 1913. Its iconic art deco tower and charming vintage interior offer a nostalgic movie-going experience. We were lucky to catch a special screening of The Living Dream: 100 Years of Rocky Mountain National Park and had the added bonus of meeting Nick Molle, the director and producer of the film. The documentary, which commemorates the park’s centennial, takes viewers on a journey through the park's creation, its role in the conservation movement, and its continued significance today. Featuring stunning footage of the park's landscapes and wildlife, it highlights the importance of preserving this national treasure for future generations. After the screening, Mr. Molle graciously answered all our questions, and the kids were thrilled to interact with him. We caught one of the last summer viewings of the film, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.
Evening at the Campsite
As more storms threatened that evening, we decided to stay close to our campsite at Manor RV Park. Before the rain arrived, the kids played in the river just a few feet from our RV and made some new friends at the campground. As dusk settled in, I looked out the window and saw six deer, including a majestic elk and two fawns, grazing nearby. We watched as they slowly made their way across the river to the neighboring property, a magical and peaceful end to the day.
Day 3: Early Timed Entry for Bear Lake
Dream Lake – Take Two!
With the sun shining through clouds and better prepared for the drastic temperature drops (from 70s to 40s!), we decided to give the Dream Lake Trail another try. I’m so glad we did! The trail, which is moderate in difficulty with some elevation gain, is well-maintained and suitable for most hikers. The first part of the hike was a repeat from Day 2, passing Nymph Lake, but this time, we were greeted with no rain, clouds resting at the peaks, and sun rays breaking through, creating a completely different and breathtaking atmosphere. Though small, Nymph Lake is surrounded by lily pads and boasts beautiful mountain views. We continued on to Dream Lake, where the crystal-clear waters perfectly reflected the surrounding peaks, including Hallett Peak. The scenery was breathtaking and made for the perfect photo opportunity, making it well worth the second attempt. Along the trail, we found countless opportunities for my budding rock climber to push his limits—and mine! I’m constantly amazed at how quickly he can scale a mountain face or boulder. As an adventure seeker myself, I take great pride in creating experiences that challenge and encourage my little adventurers to push their boundaries and embrace new challenges.
Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road
To wrap up the day, we embarked on the Trail Ridge Road drive, one of the most iconic scenic routes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Known as the highest continuous paved road in North America, Trail Ridge Road reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet and spans 48 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake. The drive offers stunning panoramic views of the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to the alpine tundra. We stopped at several overlooks to take in the sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and wide meadows, and we were lucky enough to spot some wildlife, including elk and bighorn sheep. Open seasonally from late May to October, Trail Ridge Road is a must-do for anyone wanting to experience the full beauty of the Rockies.
Best Outlooks
1. Many Parks Curve
Elevation: 9,620 feet
Description: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the meadows and forests of the east side of the park. You can see Estes Park, Moraine Park, and the distant mountains. It's one of the first major overlooks as you ascend Trail Ridge Road from the east.
2. Rainbow Curve
Elevation: 10,829 feet
Description: Rainbow Curve provides stunning views of the valleys below, including Horseshoe Park and the Alluvial Fan. You can also see the Continental Divide and distant mountain peaks. It's a great spot to observe the dramatic elevation change as you climb higher into the alpine zone.
3. Forest Canyon Overlook
Elevation: 11,716 feet
Description: This overlook offers expansive views of Forest Canyon, a deep glacial valley. From here, you can see Longs Peak, Mount Otis, and the Continental Divide. The view also includes the rugged terrain of the park's wilderness areas.
4. Rock Cut
Elevation: 12,110 feet
Description: The Rock Cut overlook provides a close-up view of the alpine tundra ecosystem. The trail at Rock Cut leads to Mushroom Rocks, where you can enjoy views of the Gore Range, the Mummy Range, and the Never Summer Mountains. The short Tundra Communities Trail from Rock Cut also offers interpretive signs about the unique high-altitude environment.
5. Tundra Communities Trail
Elevation: 12,300 feet
Description: While not a traditional overlook, this trailhead offers an unforgettable experience at the top of Trail Ridge Road. The trail leads to a viewpoint with sweeping vistas of the tundra, snow-capped peaks, and deep valleys. The short hike provides a chance to see the unique plant life and possibly spot wildlife like marmots and pikas.
6. Alpine Visitors Center and the continental divide
7. Gore Range Overlook
Elevation: 12,048 feet
Description: This overlook offers a view of the distant Gore Range, with layers of mountain ranges stretching out before you. It's one of the highest overlooks on Trail Ridge Road and provides a sense of the vastness of the Rocky Mountains.
8. Medicine Bow Curve
Elevation: 11,640 feet
Description: This overlook provides views to the north and west, including the Medicine Bow Mountains and the Cache La Poudre River valley. The curve is named after the Medicine Bow Mountains, which can be seen in the distance.
9. Farview Curve
Elevation: 10,120 feet
Description: As you descend the western side of Trail Ridge Road, Farview Curve offers spectacular views of the Kawuneeche Valley and the headwaters of the Colorado River. You can see across the valley to the Never Summer Mountains, which are particularly impressive with their permanent snowfields
Craving some Thai
Estes Thai Restaurant offers a delightful taste of authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of Estes Park, serving flavorful dishes with fresh ingredients in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. We sampled multiple plates and loved each one. Pad Thai, Chicken Fried Rice, Wonton Soup, Sampler Platter, and Pad See Ew. https://www.estesthai.com/
Bear Lake
The Bear Lake Trail and Alberta Falls are two of the most popular and scenic hiking destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Bear Lake Trail is a short, easy loop around a beautiful alpine lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. At just 0.6 miles, it's accessible to all ages and perfect for a quick yet picturesque nature walk. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the hike to Alberta Falls starts from the same trailhead and extends 1.6 miles round-trip. This moderate trail leads hikers through aspen groves and pine forests to one of the park's most iconic waterfalls. Alberta Falls cascades 30 feet over boulders, creating a mesmerizing display, especially during the spring and early summer when the snowmelt is at its peak. Both hikes offer an incredible glimpse of the park’s natural beauty, making them must-see spots for visitors.
Day 4: Estes Park
After an action-packed four days, we decided to take it easy. We slept in, got a head start on homeschooling in the morning, and let the kids play in the river right outside our RV site, where they also spent time with the new friends they’ve made. Later in the day, we headed downtown to explore Estes Park.
Estes Park is a quaint mountain town steeped in history and natural beauty. Known for its scenic backdrop and as the home of the historic Stanley Hotel, Estes Park offers visitors an array of activities, from browsing local artisan shops and galleries to enjoying riverside picnics. Estes Park also serves as a hub for adventure seekers, offering outdoor recreation such as fly-fishing, horseback riding, and rock climbing. The town’s proximity to the national park makes it the perfect basecamp for anyone looking to explore the region, combining small-town charm with easy access to one of the nation’s most beloved wilderness areas. Also, keep an eye out for elf! There were so many elk in the downtown central ‘park’ area. We would try by routinely to see how many elk were lounging just feet away from the sidewalk!
Some of our favorite shops in downtown:
Laura Fine Candy
Hyk: Good selection of outdoor gear at good prices. The owner was very nice and knowledgeable about his products. Oh, and we loved that they gave away free bibles to those that wanted them and had some really need Christian art on the walls.
The Grey House: Mountain boutique with women's, men's, and baby clothing and accessories
Estes Park Mountain Shop: Large mountain shop with a wide selection of outdoor gear
Trendz At The Park: Home decor, accessories, jewelry, and gifts inspired by Colorado
The Taffy Shop: Small shop where you can watch taffy being pulled and choose from flavors like cinnamon, apple, peach, and vanilla
Estes Park Knife Company: Wide selection of high quality knives
Our family was looking for an activity outside of our usual national park adventures and decided on mini golf. After checking out a few courses in Estes Park, we chose Ride-A-Kart & Cascade Creek Mini Golf based on the quality of the course, and it did not disappoint! This family-friendly entertainment center offers a variety of activities, but we were drawn to its well-maintained, fun 18-hole mini golf course. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options, the experience is well worth the price. The beautifully landscaped Cascade Creek Mini Golf adds to the charm, offering a fun and challenging game for mini-golf enthusiasts of all ages.
The Estes Park Mountain Shop is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts looking to gear up for adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park and beyond. The shop offers a wide range of high-quality outdoor equipment, apparel, and accessories, from hiking boots and climbing gear to kayaks and fishing supplies. In addition to its retail selection, the shop provides gear rentals, allowing visitors to try activities like rock climbing, snowshoeing, or fly fishing without needing to buy their own equipment. With knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to prepare for exploring the rugged beauty of the Colorado wilderness.
Frozen Peas to the rescue to ice the gimp ankle
The shop also features indoor rock and boulder climbing, which my kids begged to try—and this adventurous mom agreed (despite dad’s hesitant glare!). They had a blast scaling the various walls, especially the unique treadmill-style wall that was an instant favorite. Unfortunately, the fun was cut short for Foster, my most adventurous climber. He took a fall from 8 feet and landed awkwardly on the mat, hurting his left ankle. To make matters worse, his cry triggered a nosebleed, so we had a combination of tears, blood, and a bummed ankle to handle. I’m usually a "throw some dirt on it" type of mom and, after consulting with a few medical friends, including an orthopedic PA, I felt confident in my decision to monitor, ice, and rest the injury for the next few days.
Day 5: Leaving Beautiful Estes Park
Before leaving Estes Park, we enjoyed breakfast at Manor RV. Every other Saturday, they serve fluffy pancakes, sizzling sausage, fresh fruit, juice, and hot coffee to their guests—a perfect send-off! After filling our bellies, we hit the road, making an overnight stop in Trinidad, CO, before heading to our next destination: Palo Duro Canyon in Amarillo!
Our time in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park has been nothing short of unforgettable. From breathtaking hikes and wildlife encounters to peaceful moments by the river and exploring the charming downtown, we’ve created lasting memories in this beautiful corner of Colorado. The majestic mountains, serene lakes, and endless adventures offered something for each of us, leaving us with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and the welcoming spirit of the area. As we move on to our next destination, we carry with us the experiences and lessons learned from our time in this incredible landscape, already looking forward to the day we can return.
In the quiet moments of nature, we find not only the beauty of the world around us but also the deep connections that bind our family together.