20 Amazing Things To Do In Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Discover Alpine Visitor Center

Alpine Visitor Center, perched at 11,796 feet, provides a breathtaking gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park's alpine tundra. The highest continuous paved highway in the U.S., the center offers panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and diverse wildlife. 

Visitors can explore educational exhibits about the region's unique ecosystem and history here. The center also features a gift shop with local souvenirs and a cafe that serves hot drinks and snacks.

Open seasonally from late May to mid-October, the Alpine Visitor Center is an essential stop for stunning photo opportunities, learning about high-altitude environments, and experiencing the raw beauty of the Rockies.

2. Trek Along Bear Lake Trailhead

Among various places to visit in Rocky Mountain National Park, Bear Lake Trailhead is one of the best options. Nestled at an elevation of 9,475 feet, it provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks and lush forests.

The trailhead features a variety of routes suitable for all skill levels, from the easy, family-friendly Bear Lake Loop to more challenging hikes like the trek to Emerald Lake and the climb up Flattop Mountain.

The area is particularly popular in the fall when the aspen trees turn brilliant gold. Moreover, Bear Lake Trailhead is also accessible year-round, offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities in the winter.

3. Explore Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is one of the attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park. The 3.6-mile round trip hike to Emerald Lake is moderate in difficulty and features stunning alpine scenery, including the serene Nymph Lake and the picturesque Dream Lake along the way.

The trail is well-maintained and provides amazing views of the surrounding peaks, lush forests, and wildflowers in season. At the lake, visitors are rewarded with a pristine, emerald-colored body of water nestled beneath the towering Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.

The tranquility and beauty of Emerald Lake make it a perfect spot for photography, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural splendor of the Rockies.

4. Take A Scenic Drive On Trail Ridge Road

Known as the "highway to the sky," this Trail Ridge Road reaches elevations of over 12,000 feet which makes it the highest continuous paved road in the United States. As you drive along its 48-mile length, you'll experience a diverse range of ecosystems.

The road provides numerous pullouts and overlooks, perfect for taking in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Wildlife sightings are common, with elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep often seen along the way.

Open seasonally from late spring to early fall, Trail Ridge Road is a gateway to adventure, offering access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and educational exhibits.

5. Visit Forest Canyon Overlook

Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park provides panoramic views of the Forest Canyon and the distant peaks of the Never Summer Mountains. The overlook is an ideal spot for photography, wildlife viewing, and simply soaking in the natural beauty of the park.

At an elevation of over 11,000 feet, the site also offers a unique perspective on the park's diverse geology and alpine ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy the crisp mountain air and observe the contrasting colors of the forested valleys and rocky ridges. A stop at Forest Canyon Overlook is a must for anyone wanting to experience the grandeur of the Rockies.

6. Take In The Natural Wonder Of Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and accessibility. This waterfall is a highlight of the park's numerous hiking trails, particularly the popular Bear Lake Trail.

The 30-foot cascade is set against a backdrop of rugged mountain scenery which offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serene landscape of the Rockies. The moderate 1.7-mile round-trip hike to Alberta Falls is perfect for all skill levels. Along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful views of alpine forests and hear the soothing sound of rushing water.

7. Wander Around Sprague Lake

Sprague Lake, located in Rocky Mountain National Park, provides a serene and picturesque destination perfect for visitors seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities. The lake provides a stunning backdrop for photography and nature appreciation.

The easy, flat trail around Sprague Lake is ideal for a walk, accommodating families with young children and visitors of all ages. Along the 0.9-mile loop, you’ll encounter beautiful views of the Continental Divide, diverse wildlife, and vibrant wildflowers in the warmer months.

Moreover, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the lake’s stocked trout, while the early mornings offer prime opportunities for witnessing stunning sunrises reflected on the tranquil waters. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing.

8. Visit Sky Pond

Sky Pond provides an enchanting adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Reached through a demanding but rewarding 9-mile round-trip hike, the journey to Sky Pond starts at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead.

Hikers traverse past stunning landmarks like Alberta Falls, The Loch, and Timberline Falls, each providing picturesque views and opportunities for photography.

The final ascent to Sky Pond involves a short, exhilarating scramble up Timberline Falls, leading to the serene, alpine waters of Sky Pond, framed by dramatic cliffs and spires. Hence, the trail's combination of waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic mountain views makes it one of the most rewarding hikes in the park.

9. Summit Longs Peak

Longs Peak is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Standing at 14,259 feet, it attracts climbers and hikers seeking to conquer its towering summit.

The Keyhole Route, the most popular path, demands a strenuous 15-mile round trip with a gain of over 5,000 feet in elevation. The hike takes you through diverse terrains, from dense forests to alpine tundra.

The final ascent involves scrambling over rocks and navigating narrow ledges. Therefore, reaching the summit provides a profound sense of accomplishment and panoramic vistas of the park's majestic landscapes.

10. Delve Into Lake Haiyaha

Lake Haiyaha, named after a Native American term meaning "a big rock," is renowned for its serene beauty and unique landscape. To reach the lake, embark on a moderately challenging hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead, which rewards you with amazing views of rugged terrain and pristine wilderness.

The trail traverses a lush forest and rocky outcrops, leading to the lake's crystal-clear waters surrounded by massive boulders and striking mountain vistas. Lake Haiyaha offers excellent opportunities for photography, peaceful reflection, and picnicking. Its remote and tranquil setting makes it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude or a serene escape into nature.

11. Experience The Beauty Of Chapel On The Rock

This iconic chapel, officially named Saint Catherine of Siena Chapel, offers a tranquil escape for visitors looking for the natural beauty of the park. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rockies, the Chapel on the Rock invites exploration and contemplation.

Whether admiring the architecture of the chapel itself or simply enjoying the serenity of its surroundings, a visit to this sacred site promises a peaceful and reflective experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

12. Discover The Beauty Of Ouzel Falls

One of the places to see in Rocky Mountain National Park is Ouzel Falls which is a must-visit destination that offers a picturesque hike, leading to a stunning waterfall. This moderately strenuous trail, starting from the Wild Basin Trailhead, winds through lush forests and along the clear, rushing waters of the North St. Vrain Creek.

The hike is approximately 5.4 miles round-trip and rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the cascading falls, which tumble dramatically over a series of rocky ledges.

Along the way, you'll experience the serene beauty of alpine meadows, vibrant wildflowers, and occasional wildlife sightings. The trek to Ouzel Falls is perfect for a beautiful, rewarding adventure in the heart of Colorado's wilderness.

13. Adventure Through The Wild Basin Area

The Wild Basin Area is one of the best attractions at Rocky Mountain National Park. Here, visitors can explore a variety of trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, alpine lakes, and panoramic mountain views.

Popular hikes include the trek to Ouzel Falls, a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall, and the challenging ascent to Lion Lakes, which provides breathtaking vistas.

The area is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, with opportunities to spot elk, moose, and diverse bird species. Its less crowded trails provide a peaceful alternative to the more frequented areas of the park.

14. Hike To Chasm Lake

Chasm Lake is a must-visit destination in Rocky Mountain National Park for those who love a good adventure. Nestled at the base of the towering Longs Peak, this stunning alpine lake offers a breathtaking backdrop of rugged granite cliffs and serene blue waters.

However, the hike to Chasm Lake is challenging but rewarding, featuring steep ascents and incredible panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail is about 8.4 miles round-trip and provides hikers with an exhilarating experience, showing some of the most spectacular scenery in the park.

15. Check Out The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is a great starting point for your adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here, you can gather valuable information about the park’s trails, wildlife, and current conditions.

The center features interactive exhibits, informative displays, and knowledgeable rangers who are eager to help you plan your visit. You can also pick up maps, learn about the park’s history and geology, and get tips on the best spots to explore.

Whether you're new to the park or a seasoned visitor, the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is an essential stop to make the most of your experience.

16. Experience The Lily Lake Trailhead

If you are wondering what to do in Rocky Mountain National Park then you can experience The Lily Lake Trailhead which offers a fantastic entry point for outdoor enthusiasts. From here, you can embark on a delightful hike around Lily Lake, a picturesque spot surrounded by wildflowers and framed by stunning mountain views.

The relatively easy, 0.8-mile loop trail is perfect for a stroll, making it ideal for families or anyone looking to enjoy a scenic walk. The trailhead also provides access to additional hiking paths and opportunities to spot local wildlife which makes it a great starting point for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.

17. Stop By The Fall River Visitor Center

Located just outside the park's eastern entrance, the Fall River Visitor Center offers a wealth of information to help you make the most of your visit. Here, you can find helpful rangers ready to provide trail recommendations, maps, and insight into the park’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.

The center also features exhibits about the park's history and natural environment which makes it an educational stop before you set out on your adventures. Plus, the beautiful views from the center's surroundings are a great way to kick off your exploration of the park.

18. Explore The Twin Sisters Trailhead

The Twin Sisters Trailhead presents a fantastic gateway to an exhilarating hike with spectacular rewards which is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, this trailhead leads you to the Twin Sisters Peaks, where the challenging trek is well worth the effort.

The hike spans about 7 miles round-trip and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including lush forests and rocky outcrops. As you climb higher, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the park’s high country and the surrounding peaks.

With its varied terrain and breathtaking views, the Twin Sisters Trailhead is the perfect things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park.

19. Visit Lake Irene

Lake Irene is a delightful spot in Rocky Mountain National Park that provides a serene escape into nature. This picturesque alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests and meadows, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing picnic.

However, the gentle 1.4-mile loop trail around the lake is easy to navigate, providing stunning views of the water and the surrounding peaks. Moreover, it’s a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, and it’s especially beautiful in the early morning when the lake's surface is calm and reflective.

20. Uncover The History At The Holzwarth Historical Site

The Holzwarth Historical Site offers a glimpse into the past which allows visitors to step back in time and experience the rustic charm of early homesteading in the Rockies. You can explore the well-preserved cabins and buildings, each telling a story of the families who once called this place home.

Additionally, wander through the serene surroundings, imagining life in the wilderness as it was decades ago. The Holzwarth Historical Site provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history of the region and appreciate the resilience of those who settled in this rugged landscape. It's a delightful experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.