Rocky Mountain
Colorado
The Continental Divide amid tundra, alpine lakes, and the high Trail Ridge Road.
Photos
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Weather & forecast
Highlights
Trail Ridge Road
The highest continuous paved road in the U.S., cresting above treeline.
Bear Lake
A classic alpine lake and trailhead for many of the park’s best day hikes.
Alpine Visitor Center
A windswept stop near the Continental Divide with sweeping tundra views.
Moraine Park
An open valley where elk gather, especially around dusk in fall.
Famous routes & hikes
Trail Ridge Road
A high-country drive through spruce forest into alpine tundra.
Emerald Lake Trail
A popular climb past Nymph and Dream Lakes to emerald water beneath Hallett Peak.
Alberta Falls
A short, scenic walk to a waterfall along Glacier Creek.
Practical guidance
Best time to visit
Late June–September for Trail Ridge; late September for elk rut and fall color.
Typical visit
2–3 days
Come prepared
- Check timed-entry requirements
- Acclimatize—altitude affects many visitors
- Start popular trailheads early or use the park shuttle
Good to know
- Trail Ridge Road closes for winter
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer
Fun facts
Trail Ridge Road tops out above 12,000 feet, with much of the route above treeline.
The park protects a large stretch of the Continental Divide in Colorado.
Timed-entry reservations are often required in peak summer months.