This complete trip guide will give you the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park with kids and more. The park has seen a lot of changes over the last few years. This guide will give you the latest park updates for 2024 as well as all the tips for getting timed-entry park reservations. Maybe I’m just a pushover for beautiful mountains, alpine lakes, and elk oh my, but this park is in our top three favorite national parks. Our kids love it as much as we do and we’ll be sharing all of their favorite, must-do things in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Disclosure: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. Read more about our privacy policy.

Pinterest Rocky Mountain National Park with Kids

Overview of Rocky Mountain

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited and the nation’s highest national parks with elevations ranging from 7,860 to 14,259 feet. The park is unique in that it encompasses three different elevational ecosystems, the Montane, the Subalpine, and the Alpine. If that weren’t impressive enough it spans the Continental Divide, stretches across 265,770 acres, and is filled with alpine lakes and the headwaters of the Colorado River. Rocky Mountain serves as a water source for a large portion of the US with snowmelt constantly flowing off of mountains and into alpine lakes, rivers and eventually making its way into all three oceans in North America. Rocky Mountain National Park provides such a unique trip for kids with so much variety in what they can see and do in every season.

Kids hiking Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park

Seasonal park reservations are required for Rocky Mountain

There will again be a seasonal reservation system in place from May 24, 2024 through October 20, 2024 for Bear Lake Corridor (ends Oct 15 for the rest of the park). Visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park will need a timed entry permit and an entrance pass to enter the park. Similar to 2023 there are two reservation options:

  • Option 1: Entire Park Access with Bear Lake Road corridor (see map in the link above). Reservations are required 5 AM-6 PM MT. You must enter during your designated two-hour time window.
  • Option 2: The rest of the Rocky Mountain Park Area, excluding the Bear Lake Road corridor (This includes Wild Basin, Long’s Peak, Trail Ridge Road, and Fall River Area). Reservations are required from 9 AM-2 PM MT, outside of these times, no park reservations are needed.

How to get timed-entry tickets to Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Reservations to enter the park can be found at recreation.gov.
  • Create an account before your tickets go on sale to ensure you’re ready. Also, make sure to have the correct time-zone for the time they go on sale.
  • Reservations are available starting on May 1, 2024 8am MT and then get released approximately the month before, but look at the schedule here for exact release dates.
  • There are a small percentage of reservations released the day prior at 7pm MT through recreation.gov. These do go fast so don’t count on availability and plan ahead.
  • A ticket is needed per vehicle and for each day you want to enter the park.

If you don’t score a park reservation check out our things to do in Estes Park with kids that are outside Rocky Mountain National Park and don’t require a timed-entry reservation.

Top things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park with kids

This park has so much to offer, but here are some of our favorite things to do, kid-friendly trails (stroller-friendly ones too!) and other fun adventures in Rocky Mountain National park with kids. 

Picnic and wildlife spotting

The only food option inside the park is at the top of Trail Ridge Road near the Alpine Visitor Center, so grab a bite to eat before you head into the park. We love getting into the park early and bringing breakfast along or coming back into the park early evening and bringing dinner to get in more wildlife spotting. Some known wildlife viewing spots are upper Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park, or Horseshoe Park on the east side of the park and Harbison Meadow and the Kawuneeche Valley on the west side. 

If you want to spot moose, try Sprague Lake or other wetland areas at sunrise or sunset where aquatic vegetation can be found. There are often moose, elk, deer, or even bears that can be seen at Sprague Lake. There is also a .8 mile trail around the lake that is mostly flat, making it ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and the elderly.

Horseback Riding: Glacier Creek Stables

This is the only horseback riding stable inside the park. If you reserve a spot to ride this will get you into the park without a reservation, but you will still need to pay the standard park entrance fee. Note: if this stable is booked, see other things to do in Estes Park for an alternate horse stable option outside the park.

Horseback riding in Rocky Mountain National Park

Get Your Guide Tours of Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re short on time and want to see a lot of the park with a professional guide then this is the way to go. They have small group tours that range in length. Click here to learn more or check out some of the options below.

Family-friendly hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Some of the best family-friendly hikes in Rocky Mountain National park are among the most easily accessible as well. If not already acclimated to the altitude we recommend going on a shorter hike at a lower altitude and drinking lots of water for the first day. Also, ultraviolet light is stronger in the mountains because there is less atmosphere for the sunlight to pass through. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt if you are in the sun for an extended period.

This hiking guide found in the National Park newspaper (pages 5-7) is a helpful, quick reference for where the burn areas are found and which hikes are open/closed.

Bear Lake trail (.6 miles round trip, easy)

One of the easiest but must-do hikes in the park is Bear Lake. It’s a flat, easy trail that is even stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Park at the Bear Lake trailhead (30min drive from Estes Park) but this parking lot can fill fast so recommend getting there early (ideally by 8am). Recommend combining this hike with the Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes hike below for a total of 4.2miles.

Alberta Falls trail (1.6 mile round trip, easy, elevation gain 232 ft) 

Bear Lake Shuttle Route (seasonal). This hike is along a well-marked trail and offers some beautiful views of carved-out canyons and fast-flowing waterfalls. It’s best done in the morning before crowds arrive. Alberta Falls can be found via the Glacier Gorge shuttle stop which will take you on an easy, but steady 0.8 mile climb up to the falls. But we recommend starting at the Bear Lake shuttle stop and ending at the Glacier Gorge shuttle stop. This approach minimizes uphill hiking.

Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes (3.6 miles, moderate, starting elevation 9,475′ – 9,705′ (at Nymph)

Elevation gain: +230′ (Nymph): +437′ (Dream): +615′ (Emerald). Bear Lake Shuttle Route (seasonal). A great family-friendly hike that’s a perfect introduction to Rocky Mountain National Park. If you combine this hike with Bear Lake it’s 4.2 miles. This hike is accessible from the Bear Lake Trailhead. This is a very popular year-round hike; arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.

Dream Lake Rocky Mountain things to do
Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Alluvial Fan (.5 mile, easy out, and back paved trail, great for wide age range families)

If your kids love to climb on rocks this is the stop for you. This is an easy paved walk from the parking lot and features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. This is a great stop if you have a wide age range of kids because you can stay on the paved trail or do some rock hopping/climbing to get closer to the falls.

Alluvial Fan, Rocky Mountain National Park with kids
Alluvial Fan, Rocky Mountain National Park

Our kids vote Alluvial Fan was their favorite so don’t miss it!

Bierstadt Trail (3 miles, moderate, out and back, with an elevation gain of 800 ft)

Bear Lake Shuttle Route (seasonal). This trail has steep switchbacks going up, but impressive views of the Continental Divide. Once at the top the trail goes into a dense pine forest before making it to Bierstadt Lake. The lake is beautiful and a great place for a lunch break. Remember to bring sun protection as the hike up is very exposed, rain gear for frequent afternoon summer rainstorms, and bug repellent. 

If you want to extend this hike, and the shuttle is running (this is key!), consider starting at the Bear Lake trailhead and hike to Bierstadt Lake and then down to the Bierstadt Lake trailhead shuttle stop to catch the shuttle back to your car. Make sure to check the times for the shuttle to ensure you can make it in time. This full hike is moderate to difficult (6-7miles) so give yourself enough time and pack the essentials. Make sure to do it starting at Bear Lake so you can go down the Bierstadt trail vs up the steep incline. We ‘accidentally’ did this full hike with our three elementary-age kids so it is possible, but I don’t advise it unless you have strong hikers. Lots of negotiating with snacks, piggyback rides, and begging to just keep going to make it to the finish line before dark. Here are two additional sources if you plan to do the Bear Lake add-on. See here and here.

Bierstadt Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park with kids
Bierstadt Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Drive Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain

This bucket list-worthy drive is one not to miss, assuming the road is open when you’ll be visiting. This drive has been called the “Highway To The Sky” cresting in over 12,000 feet, it is the highest continuous paved highway in the nation and offers spectacular views. The road covers 48 miles between Estes Park on the park’s east side and Grand Lake on the west. The drive without stopping takes about 2 hours, so it’s good to plan more time if you plan to hike or make stops. If you have flexibility when you go, try to pick a day when the sky looks clear as this will give you great views from the top.

Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
Trail Ridge Road in Colorado
Couple on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
Pack warm gear always for the alpine tundra in Rocky Mountain National Park

Trail Ridge Road is generally open and ready for travel from the end of May through October, but call the Trail Ridge Road Status Line at 970-586-1222 for the most up-to-date information. Extreme weather can change the status of the road any time year-round. 

The road traverses through different ecosystems and the changes that you’ll see occur en- route is fascinating. After 11,000 feet elevation, the tree line will disappear and you’ll find yourself in the alpine tundra. To prepare for wind and a dramatic change in temperature, it’s good to bring warmer clothes, a packable down jacket, and a hat. If you plan to hike, depending on the day, boots, hiking poles, and possibly crampons may be needed. If it’s a clear day get ready for endless panoramic views.

Best Stops and Hikes on Trail Ridge Road

  • Continental Divide: you’ll find this at Milner Pass at 10,759 feet elevation. Milner Pass offers incredible views of the Rocky Mountains. Marks the place of the Atlantic and Pacific plates converging.
  • Forest Canyon Overlook: Take a five-minute walk down the paved asphalt trail to see Forest Canyon. Panoramic view at 11,716 feet.
  • Alpine Visitor Center: is the highest visitor center of all the US National Parks, it can be found close to the top at 11,796 feet and has ranger information, tundra exhibits, viewing scopes, gift shop and café (only food option in the park).
  • Tundra Community Trail: This 1.1 mile out and back trail begins at Rock Cut, which is 4.1 miles east of the Alpine Visitor Center and is at 12,100 feet in elevation with a 260-foot elevation gain. Parking for this trail can be found along the roadside. You’ll be rewarded with some amazing views of the alpine tundra. 
  • Holzwarth Historic Site (see more info below)

Holzwarth Historic Site

Recommend doing this as a stop when driving Trail Ridge Road. It’s an interesting historical site where you’ll learn about the life of the Colorado homesteaders. It is on Highway 34, seven miles north of the Grand Lake Entrance. Park employees sometimes do historical reenactments

The Holzwarth Historic Site Trail is 1.3 miles and offers scenic views and you’ll get to explore this historic ranch that is on the national register of historic places. During this hike, you’ll also get up close to the Colorado River and sweeping views of the Kawuneeche Valley. This is a hidden gem and a great way to beat the crowds. 

Complete Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park with Kids

When to visit Rocky Mountain

The busiest months to visit the park are July-September, but the park is open year-round. In the summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common between 1-3 pm so plan accordingly. In July and August, consider starting hikes early to be complete or below the tree line by 1 pm as lightning regularly strikes in Rocky Mountain.

All seasons have their benefits, but we’ve enjoyed visiting Rocky Mountain with kids in the fall when there are fewer crowds, but when Trail Ridge Road is often open. Trail Ridge Road is only open end of May (sometimes later) through late Oct. If this might be your only visit to Rocky Mountain, and you want the full experience, you might want to plan around this. Weather can vary and the opening and closing dates for the road can change. 

Lastly, a reminder that it can snow any month in Rocky Mountain National Park. Snow can also remain on the trails at higher elevations as late as July so plan accordingly as waterproof hiking shoes or boots work best for traction.

How to get there

Rocky Mountain National Park is about an 80-mile drive from Denver International Airport. Driving or renting a car is best for easily getting to the park as there is no public transportation from the airport to the park. The Estes Park shuttle is an alternate option if driving isn’t possible. If you’re looking for ways to save on a rental car check out this guide on using Turo.

The Estes Park Shuttle runs between Denver International Airport, AMTRAK, other local bus stops, and residences or other locations in the Estes Valley Area. You can find more information and make reservations here.

TIP
If you have a bit more time, make a stop at the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater on your way to Rocky Mountain. If staying in Estes Park, it only adds about 30 minutes to the drive. Red Rocks is fun to see even if you aren’t able to see a show or event, but major bonus points if you can! See details here.

Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado with kids
Red Rocks Amphitheater Morrison, CO

Rocky Mountain Park shuttles

Once in the park, there is a shuttle bus that operates within the Bear Lake Road corridor as well as Moraine Park. There are no shuttle buses on the west side of the park or across Trail Ridge Road. Shuttle buses are a tremendous help during peak crowded times in the park as parking lots fill quickly. If you can find a parking spot early and then plan to use the shuttle bus for the rest of the day this works best.

In typical years there is a hiker shuttle bus that connects the Estes Park visitor center and the Park and Ride location in Estes Park to Rocky Mountain National Park. Check for more information on park shuttles check here.

For directions and more info check here.

How to prevent altitude sickness 

Here are 7 things to remember to help prevent altitude sickness for kids and adults. Remember, to give your body time to adjust to the altitude and that you may feel more out of breath doing regular activities.

  • Stay below 7,000 feet for the first day (reference: Denver is 5,280 feet and Estes Park 7,522 feet )
  • Give your body time to adjust (there is a lot to see and do at lower altitudes.)
  • Avoid strenuous exercise on the first day.
  • Limit alcohol. Alcohol binds oxygen and water and robs your body of these two important nutrients.
  • Drink more water. The air is drier and your body will dehydrate much more quickly. The higher up you go, the more water you should drink.
  • Always travel with a companion. Watch out for severe coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest pain and if experienced get to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.
  • The effects of some drugs can be greatly increased at higher altitudes. Check with your doctor beforehand.

Rocky Mountain National Park entrances

There are four entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park and depending on which one works best for your visit, your route will be slightly different. Beaver Meadows Entrance is the most popular entrance and closest to the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. This entrance is located closest to the gateway city of Estes Park. The Fall River Entrance is also easily accessed from Estes Park. It’s the best option for those looking to experience Trail Ridge Road or Old Fall River Road, two of the most beautiful drives in the park.

For families looking to explore the accessible, but off-the-beaten-track areas of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Wild Basin Entrance is for you. The Wild Basin Entrance can be found 30-minutes south of Estes Park. It’s accessed off of Highway 7 on one of the best routes on the Denver to Estes Park drive. On the opposite side of the park sits the Grand Lake Entrance off  HWY 34 near the town of Grand Lake. The charming town is great to explore. And the Grand Lake entrance drops you right into the heart of the Colorado Rockies but was the most impacted by past wildfires. 

Where to stay near Rocky Mountain

Unlike most large national parks, Rocky Mountain has no lodging inside the park other than five campgrounds. 

The park has two gateway communities: the town of Estes Park on the east side and the town of Grand Lake on the west side. We recommend staying in Estes Park as this provides very easy access to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Grand Lake is a great day trip, but we don’t recommend staying there because if Trail Ridge Road is closed for any reason the drive to the east side of the park will be 3-4 hours minimum. More info here.

If you want to be further away, then consider staying in Boulder, Loveland, or Ft Collins.

Lodging in Estes Park

We love staying in unique vacation rental homes as they provide more space for our family of five. Estes Park has many great vacation rental options at all price points. This can be rare for national park gateway towns. When we visited we stayed here and loved it. It’s a short 2-mile drive to the Beaver Meadows east entrance of the park and close to all the amenities in Estes Park. Our kids loved the game room and stargazing over the fire pit at night.

Other great accommodation options in Estes Park

Estes Park Resort is a family-friendly hotel in Estes Park that is only 15 minutes from the park entrance. The hotel is by Lake Estes and there are walking trails, a playground, and boat and bike rentals. Click here to learn more.

YMCA of the Rockies offers cabins and lodges. The Estes Park location is minutes from the east park entrance. They offer rustic mountain cabins,  yurts, a lodge experience, camping as well as various activities. Click here to learn more.

The Stanley Hotel, if you want a unique stay consider The Stanley Hotel. This historic 1909 hotel is best known for the movie The Shining. The hotel is said to have inspired Stephen King’s novel, The Shining but contrary to rumor, it was not filmed at The Stanley Hotel.

Steamside Cabins has 21 cabins and suites on 29 acres of pine and aspen trees in Estes Park, CO. It’s located on the Fall River with lots of wildlife. More info here.

Find these accommodation options in Estes Park and more on Booking.com

Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

Inside the park: For 2023 on the east side of the park, during the summer camping season, Aspenglen and Glacier Basin Campgrounds will be open. On the west side of the park, Timber Creek Campground will also be open. the Moraine Park Campground in RMNP will be closed from late May 2023 to early summer 2024 for a rehabilitation project. Learn more here. To make reservations, as with all camping in the national parks, go to recreation.gov or download the app. 

Camping outside the park in Estes Park, CO. Check here for RV sites and camping information.

What to pack for Rocky Mountain Nat. Park

Packing in layers is a good idea when planning a national park trip. Rocky Mountain varies greatly in altitude throughout the park so the temperature, as well as the weather, can change quickly.

For packing ideas for kids check out our favorite hiking gear for kids.

Check here for our favorite men’s hiking pants and women’s hiking shirts.

Cell Service in Rocky Mountain National Park

There is very limited cell service in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is some service near the Beaver Meadows entrance, but it is spotty at best throughout the rest of the park. Make sure to download the area surrounding the park in Google Maps before you go and if you want to see some of the other apps that we recommend before heading to a national park check here.

We hope this complete guide to Rocky Mountain National Park with kids is helpful in your trip planning. Read more about visiting the national parks with kids. Have you ever visited Rocky Mountain National Park? Let us know your favorite stops and best tips, in the comments below or find us on Instagram. We’d love to share in your travels!

Make sure to check out our favorite things to do in Estes Park with kids for fun ideas outside the park.

Similar Posts

11 Comments

  1. Rocky Mountain National Park looks amazing! The kids have not been horseback riding on a trail before, and the hikes look perfect for our family!

  2. Loved visiting Rocky Mountain national Park. Such a beautiful park. We hiked a little bit when we visited, but should return to explore more of the park. Our son was only 2 at the time. The Trail Ridge Road is so beautiful.

  3. An incredible and detailed post for anyone lucky enough to visit the Rocky Mountains. I only learned recently about the altitude in Denver, I wasn’t familiar with it being so elevated. Hopefully one day will make it to this part of the world!

  4. Between the trails and views, Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely on my list now. I would love to go horseback riding there and visit the Amphitheater too. Thank you for sharing!

  5. The U.S. Rocky Mountains are on my bucketlist. I’ve been to the Rockies in Canada and loved them. It’s such a shame that there have been so many fires this year. Great tip on avoiding “lightening strikes”. I would have never thought of being below the treeline before the storms.

  6. Such a detailed post about the Rock Mountain National Park. I didn’t know that so much of it was affected in the fire last year.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *