Cub Lake with reflections. Yellow and brown grasses line the edge of the lake. Photo: NPS/J.Marino

Rocky Mountain National Park

National Park · Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompasses a spectacular range of mountain environments.

  • LocationEstes Park, CO
  • Entrance $30 private vehicle
  • HoursOpen 24 hours, daily
  • Weather now55°F Sunny
  • Alerts No active alerts

Overview

From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. Along the way explore over 300 miles of hiking trails and incredible wildlife viewing.

Topics
  • Animals
  • Astronomy
  • Birds
  • Cats (wild)
  • Climate Change
  • Elk
  • Fire
  • Fish
11 more topics
  • Forests and Woodlands
  • Geology
  • Glaciers
  • Lakes
  • Night Sky
  • Roads, Routes and Highways
  • Scenic Views
  • Trails
  • Transportation
  • Waterfalls
  • Wilderness
A man is standing on a bridge and looking up at a waterfall
Hiking in fall — NPS

Camping

5 campgrounds listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.

  • Tent site in Aspenglen Campground in summer

    Aspenglen Campground

    Reservable Campground

    Aspenglen is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park near Fall River Entrance. All campsites in Aspenglen Campground are available by reservation only…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 970-586-1206 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Biking
    • Picnicking
    Details

    Fees: Aspenglen Campground is open for the summer season! Campground Fees (Per Site/Per Night): $35.00 for standard nonelectric sites/tent sites

    Overview

    Aspenglen is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park near Fall River Entrance. All campsites in Aspenglen Campground are available by reservation only and can be reserved via Recreation.gov.

    When making your campsite reservation, be aware that:

    • Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available; this means those campsites are available to be reserved.

    • Any campsite listed as “NR” has Not Yet Released; this means that those campsites are not yet available to be reserved. 

    • A number of campsites are available to be reserved up to 6-months in advance on a rolling window.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 2-weeks prior to your desired camping date.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 1-week prior to your desired camping date.      

    Is a Timed Entry Reservation Included with my Camping Reservation?

    Yes. Campers with reservations for Aspenglen Campground have a "Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road" reservation included with your camping reservation. Your campground reservation will serve as your vehicle timed entry reservation. Campers can enter RMNP via the Grand Lake, Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances beginning at 1 p.m. on the first day of your camping reservation. Remember to print and bring a copy of your campground reservation with you and keep this in your vehicle. You will be asked to show your campground reservation confirmation at the park's entrance station upon arrival.    

    When Can I Check into My Campsite?

    Check In begins at 1 p.m. for all campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park.   

    What Time is Check Out?

    All campers must check out of their campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park by noon.   

    How Many Nights Can I Stay at Aspenglen Campground?

    In Rocky Mountain National Park, there is a 7-night limit for all campgrounds during the summer season. This means that campers can stay a total of 7 nights inside the park. This limit includes overnight stays at all campgrounds. For instance, a camper could spend 7 nights at Aspenglen Campground or they could stay 3 nights at Aspenglen Campground and 4 at Timber Creek Campground.

    Recreation

    Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles of hiking trails that range from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain climbs. One of the most popular activities in the park is wildlife viewing. There are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities to see elk, Mule deer, Bighorn sheep, hawks, a wide range of songbirds and more throughout the park.

    Rocky Mountain National Park offers some unforgettable scenic views along of the land above trees, over 1/3 of the park is alpine tundra. Enjoy incredible scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.

    Facilities

    Aspenglen Campground contains several drive-to family sites for both tents and RVs. There are a few campsites that are more secluded. These are tent-only sites that campers have to walk to, located away from your vehicle's parking space.

     
    Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and tent pad. 

     

    Roads and parking spurs are paved. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. Generators are only permitted to be used in Loop C. Generator Hours are in the mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and in the afternoons from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

    Natural Features

    A pleasant mix of Douglas fir, Lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine and the occasional Engelmann spruce forests the campground, offering equal amounts of sun and shade. Grasses, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers fill the open meadows.


    Wildlife is plentiful in the park: mule deer and the majestic Rocky Mountain elk are the most commonly spotted, although black bear, coyote, bighorn sheep and moose inhabit the region as well.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Town of Estes Park is a short drive from the campground, located outside of RMNP’s Beaver Meadows and Fall River Entrances. Dining, shopping, rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding, and golfing opportunities await. Lake Estes offers boating, sailboarding, and fishing.

  • Rocky Mountain National Park

    Glacier Basin Campground

    Reservable Campground

    All campsites at Glacier Basin Campground are available by reservation only through Recreation.gov. To make a reservation, visit www.recreation.gov, use the…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 970-586-1206 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Biking
    • Picnicking
    Details

    Fees: Glacier Basin Campground is a seasonal campground open from May 21 through the night of September 7, 2026. The campground will close at noon on September 8. Campground Fees (Per Site/Per Night) $35.00 for standard nonelectric sites/tent…

    Overview

    All campsites at Glacier Basin Campground are available by reservation only through Recreation.gov. To make a reservation, visit www.recreation.gov, use the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or call 1-877-444-6777.

     Glacier Basin Campground is located on the east side of RMNP at an elevation of 8,500 feet. There are 150 campsites available. To get to Glacier Basin Campground, drive up Bear Lake Road approximately 5 miles. The entrance to Glacier Basin Campground is across from the Park & Ride Parking Area. 

    • Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available; this means those campsites are available to be reserved.

    • Any campsite listed as “NR” has Not Yet Released; this means that those campsites are not yet available to be reserved.

    • A number of campsites are available to be reserved up to 6-months in advance on a rolling window.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 2-weeks prior to your desired camping date.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 1-week prior to your desired camping date.

    • Group campsites are available to be reserved 1-year in advance on a rolling window.  

    Is a Timed Entry Reservation Included with my Camping Reservation?

    Yes. Campers with reservations for Glacier Basin Campground have a "Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road" reservation included with your camping reservation. Your campground reservation will serve as your vehicle timed entry reservation. Campers can enter RMNP via the Grand Lake, Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances beginning at 1 p.m. on the first day of your camping reservation. Remember to print and bring a copy of your campground reservation with you and keep this in your vehicle. You will be asked to show your campground reservation confirmation at the park's entrance station upon arrival.  

    When Can I Check into My Campsite?

    Check In begins at 1 p.m. for all campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

    What Time is Check Out?

    All campers must check out of their campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park by noon. 

    How Many Nights Can I Stay at Glacier Basin Campground?

    In Rocky Mountain National Park, there is a 7-night limit for all campgrounds during the summer season. This means that campers can stay a total of 7 nights inside the park. This limit includes overnight stays at all campgrounds. For instance, a camper could spend 7 nights at Glacier Basin Campground or they could stay 3 nights at Glacier Basin Campground and 4 at Timber Creek Campground.

    Recreation

    Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles of hiking trails that range from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain climbs. One of the most popular activities in the park is wildlife viewing. There are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities to see elk, Mule deer, Bighorn sheep, hawks, a wide range of songbirds and more throughout the park.

    Rocky Mountain National Park offers some unforgettable scenic views along of the land above trees, over 1/3 of the park is alpine tundra. Enjoy incredible scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.

    Facilities

    Glacier Basin Campground contains several group and family tent-only sites, as well as RV sites without hookups. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grate and tent pad. Roads and parking spurs are paved. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. 

    There is a shuttle stop inside the campground for the park’s free shuttle bus. The shuttle system provides easy access to many trailheads and scenic destinations located throughout the Bear Lake Road Corridor. Click on the following link to learn more about the Bear Lake Road Corridor .

    Natural Features

    A pleasant mix of Douglas fir, Lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine and the occasional Engelmann spruce forests the campground, offering equal amounts of sun and shade. Grasses, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers fill the open meadows.


    Wildlife is plentiful in the park, and while mule deer and the majestic Rocky Mountain elk are the most commonly seen, black bear, coyote, bighorn sheep and moose inhabit the region as well.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Town of Estes Park is a short drive from the campground, located outside of RMNP’s Beaver Meadows and Fall River Entrances. Dining, shopping, rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding, and golfing opportunities await. Lake Estes offers boating, sailboarding, and fishing.

  • Entrance to Longs Peak Campground showing information kiosk

    Longs Peak Campground

    Reservable Campground

    Longs Peak Campground is open for the summer camping season. This is a first-come, first-served campground that is open for tents only. Longs Peak Campground is located…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    970-586-1206 Directions

    Details

    Fees: Longs Peak Campground is a first-come, first-served campground. To pay for overnight camping fees, campers can use the Scan & Pay function on the Recreation.gov Mobile App. It is easy to pay using the Scan and Pay feature. First, download…

    Overview

    Longs Peak Campground is open for the summer camping season.

    This is a first-come, first-served campground that is open for tents only. Longs Peak Campground is located about 20 minutes south of Estes Park on CO Highway 7 and is in a forested area at an elevation of 9,500 feet (3000 m) above sea level.

    Longs Peak Campground has vault toilets and no water. Campers must bring their own water. The overnight camping fee for Longs Peak Campground does not include park entrance fees or timed entry reservations.

    Rocky Mountain National Park accepts payment for all entrance and campground fees in the form of debit/credit card only. Most credit/debit cards and digital forms of payment are accepted.

    To pay for overnight camping fees, campers can use the Scan & Pay function on the Recreation.gov Mobile App. It is easy to pay using the Scan and Pay feature. First, download the Recreation.gov Mobile App and then create or update an account. Additional directions are posted at Longs Peak Campground.

    Facilities

    Each campsite has one parking spot, a fire ring, and picnic table.

    There are 4 vault toilets available for use in the campground.

  • Moraine Park Campground has campsites designed for tents and RVs

    Moraine Park Campground

    Reservable Campground

    Moraine Park Campground is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, overlooking Moraine Park. To access the campground, enter RMNP via Beaver Meadows…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    1000 Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 970-586-1206 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Biking
    • Picnicking
    Details

    Fees: During the summer camping season, all campsites are available by reservation only and can be reserved via Recreation.gov. Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available; this means those campsites are available to be reserved. Any…

    Overview

    Moraine Park Campground is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, overlooking Moraine Park. To access the campground, enter RMNP via Beaver Meadows, Fall River or Grand Lake Entrances and follow signs to Bear Lake Road. Drive up Bear Lake Road approximately 2 miles and turn left onto Moraine Park Campground Road.

    During the summer camping season, all campsites are available by reservation only and can be reserved via Recreation.gov.

    • Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available; this means those campsites are available to be reserved.

    • Any campsite listed as “NR” has Not Yet Released; this means that those campsites are not yet available to be reserved.

    What Size of RV or Trailer Can Moraine Park Campground Accommodate?

    • Moraine Park Campground can accommodate up to a 40-foot-long RV or a Trailer and Tow Vehicle. Before making a reservation, check the details for each campsite to see which sites can accommodate larger vehicles. Many campsites are designed for tents or vans only.

    Are There Electric Hookups Available?

    Yes. 49 campsites have electric hookups that can support 20, 30 or 50 amps. Most campsites in Moraine Park Campground are standard non-electric sites. Before making your reservation, check each individual campsite for details.

    Is a Timed Entry Reservation Included with my Camping Reservation?

    Yes. A "Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road" Reservation is included with your overnight camping reservation. Your campground reservation will serve as your vehicle timed entry reservation. Campers can enter RMNP via the Grand Lake, Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances beginning at 1 p.m. on the first day of their camping reservation.

    Remember to print and bring a copy of your campground reservation with you and keep this in your vehicle. You will be asked to show your campground reservation confirmation at the park's entrance station upon arrival. If you exit the park, be prepared to show your confirmation every time you return.  

    When Can I Check into My Campsite?

    • Check In begins at 1 p.m. for all campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

    What Time is Check Out?

    • All campers must check out of their campsites by 12 p.m. (noon). 

    How Many Nights Can I Stay at Moraine Park Campground?

    In Rocky Mountain National Park, there is a 7-night limit for all campgrounds during the summer season. This means that campers can stay a total of 7 nights inside the park. This limit includes overnight stays at all campgrounds. For instance, a camper could spend 7 nights at Moraine Park Campground, or they could stay 3 nights at Glacier Basin Campground and 4 at Timber Creek Campground.

    Do Your Part to Help New Plants Grow - Stay Off of Hydroseeded Areas

    Moraine Park Campground has recently been re-seeded after construction!  This process, called hydroseeding, applies a combination of local native seed, mulch fiber, and water to disturbed areas, and looks similar to fine straw.  Over the next couple of years, this seed will germinate and help restore the local native plant communities we know and love.  Please protect these fragile areas by using designated paths and keeping kids and pets out of hydroseeded areas.

    Recreation

    There is something for everyone to enjoy in Rocky Mountain National Park! The park has over 350 miles of hiking trails that range from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain climbs. One of the most popular activities in the park is wildlife viewing. The park offers great opportunities for fishing and bird watching. There are also excellent wildlife viewing opportunities to see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, many small mammals, and more!

    Rocky Mountain National Park offers some unforgettable scenic views. Enjoy three distinct life zones: the montane, subalpine, and alpine. Over 1/3 of the park is located in alpine tundra. Enjoy scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.

    Interested to learn more? Check out one of the park's Ranger-led walks, talks or programs! A wide variety of opportunities are available all summer long.

    Facilities

    Moraine Park Campground has campsites for tents and RVs. Many campsites in loops B and C have electric hookups. Water and sewer hookups are not available. There are a number of walk-in tent sites throughout the campground. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and a food storage box. All tent sites have a designated tent pad. Tents must be set up on the tent pad or parking area. They cannot be set up on vegetation.

    Some campsites designed for RVs do not have a tent pad.

    The roads inside Moraine Park Campground are paved. All campsites either have dirt parking spaces or concrete parking pads. Flush toilets and drinking water are available. There are two solar shower facilities inside the campground. Campers must provide their own solar shower bags – water is not available in the shower stalls. 

    There is a shuttle stop inside the campground for the park’s free shuttle bus. The shuttle system provides easy access to many trailheads and scenic destinations located throughout the Bear Lake Road Corridor. For the Bear Lake and Moraine Park Shuttle schedules, click here.

    The Moraine Park Campground outdoor amphitheater is located near the entrance to Loop C. Free campground programs are available throughout the season. Visit Moraine Park Ranger Station for the current schedule.

    Natural Features

    A pleasant mix of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine and the occasional Engelmann spruce forests the campground, offering partial shade in this open area. Grasses, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers fill the open meadows.


    Wildlife is plentiful in the park; mule deer and the majestic Rocky Mountain elk are the most commonly seen. Black bear, coyote, bighorn sheep and moose inhabit the region as well, but can be harder to stumble upon.

    Nearby Attractions

    The town of Estes Park is a short drive from the campground, located outside of RMNP’s Beaver Meadows and Fall River Entrances. Dining, shopping, rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding, and golfing opportunities await. Lake Estes offers opportunities for boating and fishing.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Please refer to Rules and Reservation Policies for information on changes and/or cancellations.

Show 1 more campground
  • Tent at Timber Creek Campground

    Timber Creek Campground

    Reservable Campground

    Timber Creek Campground is the only campground located on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. All campsites are available by reservation only through…

    Reserve on Recreation.gov

    970-586-1206 Directions

    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Biking
    • Swimming
    Details

    Fees: Timber Creek Campground is closed during the winter camping season. In 2026, Timber Creek Campground will open at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 22. The campground will close for the season at noon on August 10, 2026, and remain closed through…

    Overview

    Timber Creek Campground is the only campground located on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. All campsites are available by reservation only through Recreation.gov. To make a reservation, visit www.recreation.gov, use the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or call 1-877-444-6777.  

    For some campsites, reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance of a desired camping date.

    Timber Creek Campground is located inside Rocky Mountain National Park and accessed via Trail Ridge Road/U.S. Highway 34. The campground is eight miles (13 km) north of the park's Grand Lake Entrance. It is located at an elevation of 8,900 feet (3000 m).

    Camping in a Trailer or RV? Please be advised, this campground has a total vehicle length limit of 30 feet (9 m). RVs and combined vehicles and trailers that exceed this limit cannot stay in Timber Creek Campground.

    Things to Know When Looking At Campsite Availability:

    • Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available.

    • Any campsite listed as “NR” has Not Yet Released; this means that those campsites are not yet available to be reserved.

    • A number of campsites are available to be reserved up to 6-months in advance on a rolling window.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 2-weeks prior to your desired camping date.

    • Some campsites are available to be reserved 1-week prior to your desired camping date.  

    Is a Timed Entry Reservation Included with my Camping Reservation?

    Yes. Campers with reservations for Timber Creek Campground have a "Timed Entry (does not include access to Bear Lake Road)" reservation included with your campground reservation. Your campground reservation will serve as your vehicle timed entry reservation. Campers can enter RMNP via the Grand Lake, Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances beginning at 1 p.m. on the first day of your camping reservation. Remember to print and bring a copy of your campground reservation with you and keep this in your vehicle. You will be asked to show your campground reservation confirmation at the park's entrance station upon arrival.

    If entering RMNP on the east side of the park, check the status of Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge Road is a seasonal road that can temporarily close based on weather at any time. If Trail Ridge Road is closed, use alternate travel routes to travel outside and around the park. To check the status of Trail Ridge Road, call 970-586-1222. 

    Planning to visit destinations along the Bear Lake Road Corridor? Campers staying at Timber Creek Campground will also need to make a "Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road" reservation or they will need to enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor during a time of day when reservations are not required. For details, visit the park's timed entry webpage .

    When Can I Check into My Campsite?

    Check In begins at 1 p.m. for all campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

    What Time is Check Out?

    All campers must check out of their campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park by noon. 

    How Many Nights Can I Stay at Timber Creek Campground?

    In Rocky Mountain National Park, there is a 7-night limit for all campgrounds during the summer season. This means that campers can stay a total of 7 nights inside the park. This limit includes overnight stays at all campgrounds. For instance, a camper could spend 7 nights at Timber Creek Campground or they could stay 4 nights at Timber Creek Campground and 3 at Glacier Basin Campground.

     

    Recreation

    Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles (563 km) of hiking trails. There are many wonderful trails to explore on the west side of the park, including the Colorado River Trail, Coyote Valley Trail, Green Mountain Trail, and more. Enjoy fishing along the banks of the Colorado River. 

    The park also offers some unforgettable scenic driving routes, including Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. Enjoy scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities in the alpine tundra. Enjoy ranger-led programs and exhibits at Alpine Visitor Center.

    Are you interested in history? Take a step back in time and explore the Holzwarth Historic Site, just down the road from Timber Creek Campground.

    Facilities

    Timber Creek Campground has single family tent sites, walk-to sites, and RV sites (30 ft/9 m or smaller in length) without hookups.

    Camping as part of a group? Group campsites are not available at Timber Creek Campground. If you are looking for a group site, please check Glacier Basin Campground, located on the east side of RMNP along Bear Lake Road.

    Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and tent pad.   

    During the summer season, potable water and restroom facilities are available. The campground has dish sinks available for washing dishes. A freshwater fill and dump station for trailers and RVs is available in the campground. These facilities are available for any campers to use. Dumpsters, recycling bins, and propane recycling are scattered throughout the campground for the convenience of campers. 

    Natural Features

    At Timber Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy wildflowers in June and July in the surrounding meadows. There is a mix of Douglas fir, Lodgepole pine, and Ponderosa pine trees around the campground. 

    Wildlife is plentiful in Rocky Mountain National Park. Mule deer and elk are commonly seen. Black bear, coyote, bighorn sheep and moose also inhabit the area, but are less common.

    Nearby Attractions

    The town of Grand Lake, Colorado is located 10 miles south of Timber Creek Campground (2 miles south of the park's west entrance). Dining, shopping, grocery, and other recreational activities can be found in Grand Lake.

    Charges & Cancellations

Facilities & Services

Find timed-entry reservations, permits, tours, tickets, visitor centers and other services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.

Timed Entry & Reservations

  • Rocky Mountain National Park Shuttle Tickets

    Timed Entry

  • Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry

    Timed Entry

    Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular mountain environments. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road – which crests at over 12,000 feet…

    Details

    Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular mountain environments. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road – which crests at over 12,000 feet including many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds – along with over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times. In a world of superlatives, Rocky is on top!

    More people than ever before are coming to experience the grandeur of Rocky Mountain National Park: in 2019, the park had over 4.7 million visitors— the third most visited national park in the country. While this level of visitation means that new and larger audiences are learning about and experiencing this incredible place, it also presents challenges.

    In 2020, Rocky Mountain National Park will implement a timed entry reservation system in order to reopen the park and meet the CDC, state and local guidance related to Covid-19.

    Each private vehicle entering the park will need a reservation for each day the vehicle will be in the park. The person making the reservation needs to be in the vehicle at the time of entry, ID may be required at time of entry.

    Park entrance fees are required at the time of reservation, no payment accepted when entering the park. Or if you have an annual or lifetime pass at the time of your reservation those are accepted as your entrance fee. Valid entrance passes accepted are: Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Pass, Interagency Annual Pass, Interagency Senior Pass, Interagency Access Pass, Interagency Volunteer Pass, Interagency Military Pass, Interagency 4th Grade Pass. Passholders will be required to pay the $2.00 reservation fee. test

Permits & Passes

Tours & Tickets

  • Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry-2020

    Ticket Facility

    Rocky Mountain National Park will be implementing a new pilot temporary timed entry permit reservation system beginning on May 28, 2021. Park staff are managing for…

    Details

    Rocky Mountain National Park will be implementing a new pilot temporary timed entry permit reservation system beginning on May 28, 2021. Park staff are managing for significant increases in visitation to public lands in Colorado, including Rocky Mountain National Park, along with continued Covid-19 concerns, ongoing park seasonal staff shared housing challenges, reduced shuttle bus capacity and residual fire impacts in some areas of the park from historic fires in 2020.  

    There will be two types of reservations available. One permit will be for the Bear Lake Road Corridor, which will include the entire corridor and access to the rest of the park. This reservation period will be from 5 am to 6 pm. The second permit will be for the rest of Rocky Mountain National Park, excluding the Bear Lake Road corridor. This reservation period will be from 9 am to 3 pm. Permits issued using the reservation system will allow park visitors to enter the park within two-hour windows of availability. The reservation system will apply to all areas of the park.  

    Reservations to enter the park will go on sale 8 a.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Saturday, May 1. Reservations will be available to enter the park from May 28 through June 30. The next release will be on June 1, for the month of July and any remaining days that have not been booked for June. On July 1, reservations will be available for the month of August and any remaining days that have not been booked for July. On August 1, reservations will be available for the month of September and any remaining days in August that have not been booked. On September 1, reservations will be available for October and any remaining days in September that have not been booked. Initially, 25 percent of permits will be held and available for purchase the day prior at 5 p.m. These are expected to sell out quickly and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead when possible. There will be no permits sold on site at the park.  

    This year’s pilot reservation system allows for a greater number of reservations per day. Reservations will be based on approximately 75 percent to 85 percent of the park’s total parking capacity. Last year’s system was based on approximately 60 percent of the park’s total parking capacity. This system spreads use throughout the park to better utilize all parking/trailhead areas. This system will be adaptable to changes in visitation trends and public health concerns.

Visitor Centers

  • Information Office

    Visitor Center

    Have questions about Rocky Mountain National Park? Call the Information Office! NPS staff and volunteers are available to help your plan your trips, learn about the…

    Details
    Have questions about Rocky Mountain National Park? Call the Information Office! NPS staff and volunteers are available to help your plan your trips, learn about the park, and more! Call us at 970-586-1206 or email us at romo_information@nps.gov.

Other Visitor Services

  • Front of Alpine Visitor Center

    Alpine Visitor Center

    Facility

    Alpine Visitor Center is open for the 2026 summer season. Located at the top of Fall River Pass and accessed via Trail Ridge Road, Alpine Visitor Center is the highest…

    Details
    Alpine Visitor Center is open for the 2026 summer season. Located at the top of Fall River Pass and accessed via Trail Ridge Road, Alpine Visitor Center is the highest elevation visitor center in the National Park System at 11,796 feet above sea level. Stop by and learn more about plants and wildlife that live in the land above trees - the Alpine tundra.
Show 8 more facilities

Visitor Centers

  • Junior Rangers at Hidden Valley

    Junior Ranger Headquarters at Hidden Valley

    Visitor Center

    Junior Ranger Headquarters has closed for the season. We invite you to get out and explore the Hidden Valley area on your own with your family. Hidden Valley is located…

    Details
    Junior Ranger Headquarters has closed for the season. We invite you to get out and explore the Hidden Valley area on your own with your family. Hidden Valley is located on Trail Ridge Road approximately 7 miles from the Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances.
  • Wilderness Office

    Visitor Center

    Have questions about planning for an overnight backpacking camping trip? Ready to pick up your backpacking permits? Visit the park's Wilderness Office or call…

    Details
    Have questions about planning for an overnight backpacking camping trip? Ready to pick up your backpacking permits? Visit the park's Wilderness Office or call 970-586-1242. To get to the Wilderness Office, park your vehicle at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and follow the signs and paved path to the Wilderness Office.

Other Visitor Services

  • Entrance to Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

    Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

    Facility

    Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is open year-round. This visitor center is located on the east side of RMNP near the town of Estes Park, along U.S. Highway 36…

    Details
    Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is open year-round. This visitor center is located on the east side of RMNP near the town of Estes Park, along U.S. Highway 36 approximately 1 mile east of the Beaver Meadows Entrance to RMNP. Inside the visitor center, meet with park staff, enjoy the park's movie, and visit the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store.
  • Fall River Visitor Center

    Fall River Visitor Center

    Facility

    The Fall River Visitor Center is located west of the town of Estes Park on U.S. Highway 34, just before the Fall River Entrance to RMNP. Find park information, learn…

    Details
    The Fall River Visitor Center is located west of the town of Estes Park on U.S. Highway 34, just before the Fall River Entrance to RMNP. Find park information, learn about programs, and more. Explore Rocky Mountain Conservancy's Nature Store.
  • Holzwarth Historic Site

    Holzwarth Historic Site

    Facility

    Explore the Holzwarth Historic Site, where the Never Summer Ranch and the Holzwarth Trout Lodge was operated by the Holzwarth family through multiple generations from…

    Details
    Explore the Holzwarth Historic Site, where the Never Summer Ranch and the Holzwarth Trout Lodge was operated by the Holzwarth family through multiple generations from the 1910s to 1970s. Located on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park eight miles east of (12.8 km) the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. The grounds of the Holzwarth Historic Site are open year-round, 24 hours a day. Beginning on May 23, buildings will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., conditions permitting.
  • Kawuneeche Visitor Center

    Kawuneeche Visitor Center

    Facility

    Open daily, the Kawuneeche Visitor Center is located along U.S. Highway 34 on the west side of RMNP, north of the town of Grand Lake.

    Details
    Open daily, the Kawuneeche Visitor Center is located along U.S. Highway 34 on the west side of RMNP, north of the town of Grand Lake.
  • Moraine Park Discovery Center

    Moraine Park Discovery Center

    Facility

    The Nature Store in the Moraine Park Discovery Center is open daily. This store is managed by Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Ranger-led activities have ended at Moraine…

    Details
    The Nature Store in the Moraine Park Discovery Center is open daily. This store is managed by Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Ranger-led activities have ended at Moraine Park Discovery Center for the season. We look forward to seeing you again next summer!
  • Program at Sheep Lakes Information Station

    Sheep Lakes Information Station

    Facility

    Sheep Lakes, located in Horseshoe Park, is a great place to view wildlife. This parking area and viewpoint are open year-round daily 24 hours a day. The Sheep Lakes…

    Details
    Sheep Lakes, located in Horseshoe Park, is a great place to view wildlife. This parking area and viewpoint are open year-round daily 24 hours a day. The Sheep Lakes Information Station is open daily from mid-May to mid-August from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Open 24 hours, daily · Rocky Mountain National Park

Hours details
  • Rocky Mountain National ParkOpen 24 hours, daily

    While certain roads and facilities may be closed for the winter season, Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Entrance fees

  • $30Private Vehicle
  • $25Motorcycle
  • $15Per Person
All 7 fees & details
  • Private Vehicle$30

    1-Day Vehicle Entrance Pass. This pass is valid for one private vehicle to enter RMNP for one day only. All passengers inside the vehicle are covered. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Private Vehicle$35

    7-Day Vehicle Entrance Pass. This vehicle entrance pass is valid for one vehicle to enter RMNP for 7 consecutive days. All passengers inside the vehicle are covered. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Per Person$15

    1-Day Per Person Entrance Pass. This park entrance fee is for individuals, walk-ins, bicycles, and non-commercial groups to enter RMNP for 1-day only. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Motorcycle$25

    Valid for 1 day. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Motorcycle$30

    Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Per Person$20

    7-Day Per Person Entrance Pass. This park entrance fee is for individuals, walk-ins, bicycles, and non-commercial groups to enter RMNP for 7 consecutive days. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

  • Nonresident$100

    Each non-US resident aged 16 and older visiting Rocky Mountain National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an Annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.

Passes

  • $70Annual Entrance - Park
Pass details
  • Annual Entrance - Park

    RMNP Park-specific Annual Pass. This park pass is valid for entry to RMNP only for 1 year. One pass is good for one passholder and may be used in any personal vehicle. Park entrance passes may be purchased in person at the any of the park's entrance stations or in advance online at www.recreation.gov.

Weather

55°F
Sunny · feels like 49°
  • Today 57° 39°
    Sunny
    17% rain
  • Tomorrow 69° 41°
    Sunny
    1% rain
  • Saturday 69° 44°
    Overcast
    7% rain

Updated 4 hr ago

What to expect by season

Weather can change quickly in Rocky Mountain National Park due to the mountains and elevation. Elevation in the park ranges from 7,800 feet above sea level to over 14,000 feet at the top of the tallest mountain peaks. Weather conditions can change quickly throughout the day. For detailed weather information, visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/all-about-weather.htm For the most up-to-date weather forecasts, visit the National Weather Service webpage for Rocky at https://www.weather.gov/bou/rmnp

Upcoming Events

8 coming up
  • High Country Tales

    Oct 1, 2026 · 03:00 PM–03:30 PM · through Oct 8 Alpine Visitor Center Free

  • Ranger Ready

    Oct 1, 2026 · 10:00 AM–10:15 AM · through Oct 11 This program meets in front of Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Free

  • High Country Tales

    Oct 2, 2026 · 11:00 AM–11:30 AM · through Oct 9 Alpine Visitor Center Free

  • High Country Tales

    Oct 3, 2026 · 03:00 PM–03:30 PM · through Oct 10 Alpine Visitor Center Free

Show 4 more events
  • High Country Tales

    Oct 4, 2026 · 03:00 PM–03:30 PM · through Oct 11 Alpine Visitor Center Free

  • High Country Tales

    Oct 5, 2026 · 11:00 AM–11:30 AM · through Oct 12 Alpine Visitor Center Free

  • High Country Tales

    Oct 6, 2026 · 11:00 AM–11:30 AM Alpine Visitor Center Free

  • High Country Tales

    Oct 7, 2026 · 03:00 PM–03:30 PM Alpine Visitor Center Free

Photos

Getting There

1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517

Rocky Mountain National Park is located in northern Colorado. To visit the east side (near Estes Park, CO), follow U.S.

Full directions

I-25 to U.S. Hwy 34 or 36 west to Estes Park. To visit the west side of the park, follow I-70 to U.S Hwy 40 towards Granby, take US Hwy 34 east to Grand Lake, CO.

Mailing address: 1000 US Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517

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