Rocky Mountain National Park

As someone who has visited Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado several times over the years, I can attest to its endless beauty, natural diversity, and serene landscapes. A visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is a great option for hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to reconnect with the great outdoors. I thought I'd share some of my favorite things to do and see during a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park that you might want to add to your itinerary.

One of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park is hiking the trails. The park offers various hiking trails of different lengths and difficulty levels that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys. One of my favorite trails is the Bear Lake Trail, which offers a scenic 3.8-mile hike that leads to breathtaking views of the alpine lake surrounded by mountains. The trail is relatively easy compared to others in the park and is suitable for families with young children.

Another must-visit trail is the Emerald Lake Trail, which is a longer and more challenging hike than Bear Lake Trail but worth the effort. The 3.5 miles trail offers spectacular views of three mountain lakes, including the pristine Emerald Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks that will take your breath away.

The drive on Old Fall River Road is another favorite activity among visitors to the park. It's a one-way, 11-mile drive through winding roads and steep inclines, providing roadside views of cascading waterfalls, lush forested valleys, and the towering mountain peaks. It's a scenic route in itself and also provides access to numerous hiking trails.

Trail Ridge Road is another unforgettable route that traverses through the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. The 48-mile road connects Estes Park to Grand Lake, winding past alpine meadows, pristine wilderness areas, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you speechless. The drive is open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting.

Wildlife viewing is another top draw to the park. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to an array of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, mountain lions, and eagles. I strongly advise travelers to use caution when viewing wildlife and to keep a safe distance.

In conclusion, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, offering an unbeatable combination of striking natural beauty, scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Plan your trip ahead of time, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and don't forget to pack your camera to capture the stunning scenery. It's always a joy to come back to Rocky Mountain National Park, and I can't wait to visit again soon.