Rocky Mountain National Park is a breathtaking wonderland, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Avoid rookie mistakes and maximize your fun with these ten essential tips. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
Timed Entry Permit:
Rocky Mountain National Park has implemented a timed entry permit. You must have two things when you want to hike or drive in Rocky Mountain National Park: first is a park pass and the second is the timed entry. Go to https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm to get all the information on how to purchase your timed entry. You do not want to miss the day that the timed entry go on sale. They go on sale one month prior. For example, if you would like to arrive July 4th and travel in the park, you would need to be ready on June 1 to purchase your ticket for July. There are ways around that timed entry, so read up on those or ask us when you are booking your private cabin.
Weather:
Be ready for anything! In the spring and fall, be prepared for rain, snow, wind, and the best sun shine you can image. I advise our guests to bring layers. A nice lightweight to heavyweight base to start. Remember to make sure it is moisture wicking so you don’t get cold as you hike. The next two layers need to be easily removed and stowed in your pack so be mindful of how bulky they are. Hats, cloves, and the one thing everyone forgets, Chapstick will be your best friend and should be included in your pack. Summer months be prepared for afternoon showers. Rain gear is easily packed and lightweight.
Location:
The Rocky Mountain National Park is HUGE! There are four main entrances. Two of them, Beaver Meadows and Fall River, are just west of the town of Estes Park. In the southeast corner of the park there is an entrance to the Wild Basin area. On the west side of the park is the Kawuneeche entrance, located just north of the town of Grand Lake. You can hit all four of these while vacationing in Estes Park. Know that Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two different things. You can go to Estes Park and shop, eat, see movies, and learn a new craft all while viewing the elk at a safe distance.
Estes Park is a great little town
If you are not a hiker you can still enjoy a vacation in Estes Park. There is so much to do that is not related to getting all sweaty. Some examples: The Estes Park Tram, The Gravity Coaster, Rocky Mountain Conservancy, and the Estes Park Memorial Observatory. If you love music Estes Park had its fair share of musicians throughout the year. If wine, food, beer, and food trucks are your jam, Estes Park has all of that plus festivals almost every weekend, so do your homework so you don’t miss out. Start your research at https://www.visitestespark.com and head to the Things to do tab. They have every week listed with activities to keep you swimming in ideas. Some events need a ticket so you don’t want to just come across a cool looking festival and realize you could have saved some money if you bought your ticket in advance.
The Tundra is very delicate
I am going to start with a little story. I had never been to the tundra and was so shocked at all the little flowers at such a high elevation, that I went to pick one. Well, the friend I was visiting informed me that is not allowed and some native locals will yell at you for walking on or picking anything from the tundra. I get it now. Those little plants live in the harshest environments and they still find a way to bloom. Remember, it’s important to stay on designated trails to protect the delicate tundra.
Know what you need to hike
Be prepared for your hike. Know what you need when hiking in a national park. There are elevation changes which will affect the weather. The trails can be challenging or a nice flat walk around a lake. Know where you want to go so you know if you will need water and how much. Do not think that if it is cool out you will not need water. It is very dry and the last thing you want is to run out on a trail and you still have 4 miles to the shuttle or your car.
Cotton Kills as the old saying goes
Image an afternoon shower on the trail and all you have on are jeans, leggings or knit pajama bottoms (which I have seen all on the trails in my 13 years hiking Rocky) and it rains. Now you are soaked on the trail which is mostly in the shade. You are going to be cold and miserable. Don’t do that to yourself or your family. That is why they made hiking clothes. They are lightweight and dry fast. It allows you to keep going after an afternoon shower or just to keep you dry from sweat as you climb to reach the heavens.
West Side VS East side
A lot of locals talk about the west and east side of Rocky and it can be confusing. The West side is where the city of Grand Lake is and the Kawuneeche visitor center and entrance is located. It is charming small town around Grand Lake. Lots to do on and around the lake so check it out. Estes Park is on the East side of the park and is the more popular side because it is a bit larger of a city and easier to get to especially in the winter. It is closer to the airport and it has two entrances for easy of use.
Winter time is magical
Don’t let the weather allow you to miss out on a Rocky Mountain winter adventure. You can still spot elk and moose in and around the park. If you have never been the first person to blaze though the fresh snow in Rocky, you should. It is invigorating. You can rent snowshoes from the Mountain Shop and drive up Trail Ridge Road to where the road is blockaded off. Then snap on those snow shoes and walk the rest of the road. You get to go see parts of that drive on foot and the views are amazing. Also available is cross country skiing and sledding.
Be aware of altitude sickness
Drink lots of water, before during and after your trip. Water will help with head aches some experience. If you prep your body for a few days before you can avoid most signs and enjoy your trip. Alcohol will affect you differently also so take it slow.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, Rocky Mountain National Park offers something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Escape to the tranquility of Rustic River Cabins and create memories that will last a lifetime.