Rocky Mountain National Park

Countless breathtaking experiences and adventures await you in this beautiful paradise.

Majestic mountains views surround you throughout the Rocky Mountain National Park. The great peaks are the essence of the park. Several of the mountains here are over 12,000 feet in elevation. The highest of them is Longs Peak, rising to 14,259 feet. The Diamond, on the east face is a rock climbing paradise. Longs Peak is named after Stephen H Long, the leader of the Long Expedition. If you have some technical climbing equipment, you might be prepared for a climb up Longs Peak. Some equipment you should consider includes rope, an ice axe, and crampons. A variety of climbing experiences from bouldering and mountaineering to snow and ice climbing can be enjoyed here.

Take your choice of three roads to get to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Highway 34, 36, and State Highway 7 all let you get inside. Trail Ridge Road is a very popular route running all the way across, reaching as high as 12,183 feet in elevation. This road crosses the Continental Divide. Fall River Road is another popular road to drive - or even tackle with a motorcycle!

Let your senses enjoy all the things offered in the Rocky Mountain National Park. The clear lakes, forests, beautiful flowers, and mountain waters, are some of what can be enjoyed. Wildlife is all around you. From coyote, to elk and bighorn sheep, mule deer, and some moose, the wildlife here add to an already amazing sight.

Several campsites and back country trails allow you to soak in the outdoor beauty. Hiking trails await you everywhere! These hikes range from leisurely strolls to steep mountain climbs up the sheer peaks. No rock wall can even come close to the beauty and sounds of nature. Enjoy the warmer temperatures of the Rocky Mountain National Park in the months of July and August. Snow can begin as early as October, and continue until well into May. The winter months are great for skiing and snowshoeing.

A popular place to go (perhaps even in a canoe) in the Rocky Mountain National Park is Bear Lake. It lies between the Continental Divide and beautiful Hallett's Peak. Bear Lake Road is normally open all year long. Enjoy an easy or strenuous hike that starts from the lake. One of the more remote areas is Wild Basin. This is a popular place to go backpacking, with many trails throughout the wilderness.

The altitude can cause problems for some. If you begin to experience shortness of breath, headaches, rapid heartbeat, or insomnia, make sure to drink lots of water get plenty of rest. You will adjust, but it takes time. Don't forget you sunscreen, sun glasses, and a hat. A long sleeved shirt is also a good idea. The ultraviolet light from the sun is stronger at these high elevations. Don't forget safety!

See the birds of prey play in the high winds. You may be able to see turkey vultures, peregrine and prairie falcons, golden eagles, Cooper's hawks, and kestrels playing above. A symbol of freedom, the raptor is graceful and powerful. Raptors and climbers enjoy similar terrain. They seem to have a special bond. You could even see one from above as it soars below you while visiting the Rocky Mountain national Park.