Rocky Mountain National Park: High Peaks, Alpine Lakes and Vast Forests
“High peaks, alpine lakes, vast forests—and wildlife thriving across Colorado’s rugged Continental Divide.”
Park Overview
Located in north-central Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park spans about 415 sq miles (≈ 266,000 acres) of the southern Rockies. Its elevations range from ~7,860 ft to 14,259 ft at Longs Peak, supporting diverse ecosystems from mountain forests to alpine tundra .
Created in 1915 and named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1976, the park protects 350+ miles of trails, 150+ lakes, and some of the most iconic mountain scenery in the U.S. .
Fast Facts
| Location | Colorado (Estes Park & Grand Lake areas) |
| Established | Jan 26, 1915 |
| Area | ~415 sq mi (~266,000 acres) |
| Elevation Range | 7,860–14,259 ft (Longs Peak) |
| Trails | 350+ miles |
| Lakes | 150+ alpine lakes |
| Wildlife | 66 mammal species, 280 bird species, 140+ butterfly species |
What to See & Do
- Drive Trail Ridge Road — The highest paved road in North America, reaching over 12,000 ft between Estes Park and Grand Lake.
- Hike to Bear, Emerald & Dream Lakes — Popular alpine walks with stunning scenery.
- Climb Longs Peak — A challenging 14,259‑ft summit via the Keyhole Route.
- Explore alpine tundra — From Fall River Pass’s Alpine Visitor Center, accessible on Trail Ridge Road.
- Wildlife viewing — Spot elk during the rut, bighorn sheep near Sheep Lakes, ptarmigan near tundra, and more.
Ecology & Nature
The park covers ecosystems from mountain woodlands to alpine tundra, home to ~1,100 vascular plant species—including 900 wildflowers. Its location along the Continental Divide creates varied habitats and feeds multiple river basins.
Wildlife & Wilderness
More than 60 mammal species live here—elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bobcats, pikas, marmots—plus ~280 bird and 140 butterfly species. About 94% of the park is designated wilderness, preserving its natural character.
Human History & Conservation
Used for thousands of years by Paleo‑Indians, Ute, and Arapaho people, the park first protected wildlife in 1915. The Civilian Conservation Corps built Trail Ridge Road in the 1930s. In 1976, it was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.