Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) offers 415 square miles of dynamic landscape featuring lowland meadows, numerous lakes and rivers, aspen and subalpine forests, and towering mountain peaks. All of these aspects of RMNP create an unparalleled outdoor playground where the possibilities are endless. Visitors hike its 360 miles of trails, watch massive herds of elk, fish for trout in its many streams and lakes, camp underneath its vast starry mountain skies, or climb its epic granite rock walls.
Nearly three million people visit RMNP each year, making it one of the most popular National Parks in the country. Maps and brochures can be obtained at any of the RMNP visitor centers and for general information call RMNP HQ at (970) 586-1206 or visit www.nps.gov/romo.
Nearly three million people visit RMNP each year, making it one of the most popular National Parks in the country. Maps and brochures can be obtained at any of the RMNP visitor centers and for general information call RMNP HQ at (970) 586-1206 or visit www.nps.gov/romo.
Visitor Centers
RMNP has four visitor centers where guests can see nature exhibits, purchase RMNP books, buy gifts and snacks, use restrooms, view topographical maps of the park, and ask the park rangers questions.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed in designated areas in the Park; however, regulations vary from place to place. It is required to have a valid Colorado fishing license at all times. Some areas are exclusively catch-and-release. Observe postings carefully.
Hiking
Getting out of your car and hiking the 360 miles of trails is the best way to explore RMNP. Popular trails range from the easy and handicapped accessible paths around Bear Lake, Lily Lake, and Sprague Lake. More ambitious climbs up the fabled Longs Peak are also available for hikers. For a comprehensive analysis of the many hikes and climbs that RMNP has to offer, Lisa Fosters, “Rocky Mountain National Park, The Complete Hiking Guide,” is an excellent resource, as well as the various information pamphlets provided by RMNP.
Fishing is allowed in designated areas in the Park; however, regulations vary from place to place. It is required to have a valid Colorado fishing license at all times. Some areas are exclusively catch-and-release. Observe postings carefully.
Hiking
Getting out of your car and hiking the 360 miles of trails is the best way to explore RMNP. Popular trails range from the easy and handicapped accessible paths around Bear Lake, Lily Lake, and Sprague Lake. More ambitious climbs up the fabled Longs Peak are also available for hikers. For a comprehensive analysis of the many hikes and climbs that RMNP has to offer, Lisa Fosters, “Rocky Mountain National Park, The Complete Hiking Guide,” is an excellent resource, as well as the various information pamphlets provided by RMNP.
Wildlife
The animals that live in RMNP are wild. Park visitors could potentially pose a threat to their natural habitat, and in turn the animals could harm visitors. To avoid conflict, do not feed any wildlife in the park because they can become dependent on human food, lose the ability to hunt, and possibly die.
Animals can also kick, bite, or gore you. They can also carry diseases such as rabies and bubonic plague, which can be transmitted to humans.
Photograph all wildlife from the safety of your vehicle or from the roadside.
Approaching the animals frightens them and a possible fine may be issued to those who unnecessarily disturb the wildlife.
Pets
Pets are not allowed on Park trails, snowfields, or in the backcountry. A leashed pet may be walked in the campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roadsides. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Kennels are available in Estes Park and other surrounding communities.
Leave No Trace
In order to preserve the pristine beauty of RMNP’s natural landscape it is important for visitors to adhere to the Leave No Trace outdoor mentality. For more information, contact http://www.lnt.org/.
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