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Going Places: Destinations |
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With 60 peaks over 12,000 feet, more than 100 glistening alpine lakes, hiking trails for all levels, and wildlife from marmots to moose, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP to the locals) offers an extraordinary outdoor escape just an hour and a half from downtown Denver.
You could easily spend a week exploring all that it has to offer, though even a few days can unveil postcard-worthy views, record-breaking roads, and local-gem restaurants where pheasant chowder and bison enchiladas make the park feel as at-home to foodies as it does to adventurers. Read more in Kate Sedrowski's Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park.
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Soaring peaks, glassy alpine lakes, the highest paved road in the country, and wildlife around every bend. Start your journey with these Going-approved hits. |
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Trail Ridge Road: Highest continuous paved road in the US. Peaks at 12,183 feet, 48 miles long, with views of wide-open meadows, mountain peaks, and winding rivers. Can't miss viewpoints: Many Parks Curve and Rainbow Curve.
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Emerald Lake Trail: 3.2-mile, out-and-back trail, and one of the most rewarding (albeit crowded) hikes in the park. Hike through evergreen forest to three alpine lakes: Nymph, Dream, and Emerald, with dramatic views of Flattop and Hallett peaks.
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Lake Haiyaha: Worth the 1.5-mile extension of the Emerald Lake Trail. A 2022 rockslide sent debris into the lake, turning the water a milky turquoise in some light.
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Sandbeach Lake: For something more remote, drive 30 minutes south to the Wild Basin entrance for an 8.4-mile out-and-back to an alpine lake with a sandy beach. Plan for a full day (there's 2,000 feet of elevation gain), and bring a picnic.
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Lily Lake: Easy, flat loop around the lake with unobstructed views of Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. Perfect for families with little ones.
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Timed entry reservations are required to visit RMNP at certain hours of the day from late May to mid-October. There are two types of reservations: Standard grants access to all areas except Bear Lake Road, while Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road adds on Bear Lake Road access. Reservations are required for Bear Lake Road from 5am-6pm and all other areas of the park from 9am-2pm.
Most reservations are released on the first day of the month before you want the reservation (e.g., July 1 for August 1-31 visits). Additional reservations are released the night before a desired date at 7pm Mountain Time, so you can still snag a reservation if you're a little more spontaneous.
Don't have a timed entry reservation? Get an alpine start, and enter the Bear Lake Road area before 5am or all other areas before 9am and stay as long as you like (but you can't exit the park and re-enter). For more information, visit the NPS site.
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Three spots to fill your belly, whether you're fueling up or winding down. |
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Bird & Jim: Short drive from Beaver Meadows park entrance with elevated Colorado cuisine. The pheasant chowder is a standout.
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Ed's Cantina: The move after a long day on the trail. Fish tacos, bison enchiladas, and a legendary creamy avocado margarita. An Estes Park institution.
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The Country Market: Grab sandwiches before heading into the park. Simple, reliable, and exactly what you need before a full day in the backcountry.
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In the Rockies this summer |
The Rockies are spectacular at summertime (those who know, know). In 2026, it has even more reason to be on your list: Colorado is celebrating its 150th year of statehood, and the US its 250th anniversary of independence. |
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America 250-Colorado 150 celebrations: In a rare double milestone, the entire state of Colorado is leaning in, with events and exhibitions scattered throughout the summer. See what's on during your visit here.
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4th of July in Estes Park: Around RMNP this weekend? Celebrate the holiday with a lakeside firework show and live music.
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Rooftop Rodeo (July 6-11): An Estes Park signature summer event, with bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, parades, and western-themed entertainment.
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Estes Park Wine Festival (August 8-9): Colorado-produced wine, cider, and mead in the heart of downtown, with live music, artisan vendors, and a mountain backdrop.
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Astronomy in the Park (select Fridays): RMNP runs its stargazing program from Bear Lake Road, pairing ranger-led presentations with volunteer-operated telescopes. See the schedule here.
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NPS programs (all summer): The park runs free ranger-led events throughout the summer, including wildlife spotting programs, evening campfire talks, and Junior Ranger activities for kids. Check the calendar to see what's on during your trip.
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