| Rocky Mountain National Park | |
|---|---|
| Bear Lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks | |
| Location | Colorado, United States |
| Coordinates | 40.3428°N, 105.6836°W |
| Area | 415 sq mi (1,075 km²) |
| Established | January 26, 1915 |
| Visitors (latest) | 4.1 million (2023) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Official website |
Rocky Mountain National Park is located in north-central Colorado and is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, alpine tundra, and high-elevation lakes. Established on January 26, 1915, the park protects a portion of the **Rocky Mountains**, one of North America's most iconic mountain ranges.
Geography
The park contains:
- Over **60 peaks above 12,000 feet**, including **Longs Peak** at 14,259 feet (4,346 m)
- **Bear Lake**, **Emerald Lake**, and **Dream Lake**
- Deep valleys, glacial cirques, and alpine meadows
The park’s elevation ranges from 7,500 to over 14,000 feet, creating a wide variety of ecosystems and dramatic climate changes.
Scenic Drives
- **Trail Ridge Road** – the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching 12,183 feet (3,713 m)
- Offers sweeping views of alpine tundra and panoramic vistas
Wildlife
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to:
- **Elk**, which are commonly seen in large herds
- **Bighorn sheep**
- **Black bears**
- **Marmots**, **pikas**, and over 280 species of birds
Hiking and Recreation
- Over **355 miles of hiking trails**
- Popular hikes:
- **Bear Lake Trail** - **Sky Pond** - **Chasm Lake**
- Activities include backpacking, wildlife photography, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in winter
History
- The region was historically inhabited by the **Ute** and **Arapaho** tribes
- Designated as a national park in 1915
- Became part of the **UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve** in 1976
Gateway Towns
- Estes Park, located on the east side, is a popular base for visitors
- Grand Lake offers access from the west side
Fun Facts
- The Continental Divide runs through the park
- Weather can change rapidly — snow is possible even in summer
- More than **30 glaciers and permanent snowfields** exist within the park