High in the Front Range of northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park protects a landscape of soaring peaks, alpine tundra, and deep glacial valleys. More than sixty mountains rise above twelve thousand feet, creating a dramatic skyline where weather and light shift quickly throughout the day. Clear streams flow through lush meadows, waterfalls tumble from rocky cliffs, and windswept ridgelines open to vast views that stretch across the plains. The park’s elevation and variety of terrain create an environment that feels both powerful and serene.
Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915 to preserve its alpine landscapes and abundant wildlife. Early explorers, naturalists, and conservation advocates recognized the importance of protecting these high mountain ecosystems. The construction of Trail Ridge Road later opened access to some of the highest continuous paved roadways in North America, allowing visitors to experience the park’s dramatic elevation changes and sweeping views. Today, the park stands as one of the most visited mountain parks in the country while still protecting large areas of wilderness.
Wildlife thrives across the park’s diverse habitats. Elk graze in open valleys, bighorn sheep navigate steep cliffs, and marmots whistle from rocky slopes. Above treeline, tundra plants survive harsh conditions with short growing seasons and intense winds. Hiking trails lead through pine forests, past crystal clear lakes like Bear Lake and Dream Lake, and into alpine basins framed by rugged peaks. Whether hiking, snowshoeing, or simply taking in the views, visitors experience the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains in every season.
Conservation in Rocky Mountain National Park focuses on protecting fragile alpine ecosystems, maintaining water quality, and managing the effects of climate change and heavy visitation. Scientists monitor changes in snowpack, vegetation, and wildlife behavior as temperatures shift. The National Park Service also works to preserve the tundra by encouraging visitors to stay on designated trails and respect sensitive habitats. Rocky Mountain National Park remains a place of awe and balance, where towering peaks and delicate ecosystems coexist high above the plains.
Our Experience
We got to experience this park with two of our cousins who grew up in Colorado! We camped at an RV park/campsite in Estes park and drove into the park each day. We hiked Bear Lake, Alberta Falls and made it all the way to Emerald Lake. On the trail, we got up close and personal with a beautiful, large male elk with massive velvet covered antlers. He was snacking on some vegetation off the side of the trail. After Night one, the cousins took off and we enjoyed two more days in the park! Since then, we've visited the park many times. Fortunately, we now live 45 minutes from it and visit for hiking, elk viewing and more!