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How to Spend One Epic Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

Exploring Sky Pond, with the Taylor Glacier and Taylor Peak in the background.

With its rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife-packed meadows, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most stunning places in the U.S. Even if you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, you can still experience some of the best this iconic wilderness has to offer!

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Rocky Mountain National Park several times over the years. If you’re a fan of endless mountain views, breathtaking high-altitude tundra, and pristine alpine lakes, then you’re absolutely going to love this park as much as I do!

This Rocky Mountain National Park 1-day itinerary covers everything from scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road to hikes in the Bear Lake Corridor, designed to make sure you make the most of your time.

Whether you’re looking for easy strolls, challenging treks, or jaw-dropping viewpoints, this guide has something for every visitor. Get ready for an unforgettable day in the Rockies!

Disclosure: This page may contain sponsored content or affiliate links, including Amazon links, where I earn a small commission from any purchase – at no extra cost to you. This commission helps keep Brooke In Boots up and running. As always, all opinions are 100% honest and my own!

Important Things to Know Before Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

Before you dive into your one-day Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary, here are a few important things to know to make your visit smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Timed Entry Reservations in Rocky Mountain National Park

Like many of the most popular national parks these days, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) requires Timed Entry Reservations during peak season (typically from late May to mid-October).

There are two separate permit reservations for Rocky Mountain, depending on where in the park you intend to visit:

  • Timed Entry reservation allows entrance to any area of the Park, except the Bear Lake Corridor (Bear Lake Trailhead, Glacier Gorge Trailhead, Bierstadt Lake trailhead, Sprague Lake & others). Required 9AM to 2PM.
  • Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road reservation allows access to trailheads and sights along Bear Lake road, the most popular area for hiking in the Park, as well as entrance to the rest of the park. Required 5AM to 6PM. If you plan on using your own vehicle for this one day in Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary, you’ll want a Timed Entry+ Reservation.

Timed Entry Reservations are required for everyone entering the park in their own vehicle (aka in not using the hiker shuttle or a guided tour.) Timed entry reservations are required between 9 AM and 2 PM, so if you don’t have one, plan to arrive before 9 AM or use the Hiker Shuttle from Estes Park to access Bear Lake Road (more on that below).

Timed Entry reservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

Learn more about reservations in Rocky Mountain National Park and other national parks, here.

Entrance Fees

Timed entry reservations don’t cover your park entrance fee—you’ll still need to pay:

  • $30 per vehicle
  • $15 per person if entering on foot or bike

Traveling to more than 2 National Parks or National Forests this year? Purchase an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass for $80, which covers entrance fees at all National Parks and NPS managed sites.

Summit of Alpine Ridge Trail at the Alpine Ridge Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park. Sign says 'Elevation 12,005 Feet'

Elevation and Altitude Sickness

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the U.S., with elevations ranging from 7,860 feet to a lung-busting 14,259 feet at the summit of Longs Peak.

Even Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved through-road in the country, climbs to 12,183 feet—which is all to say, if you’re coming from lower elevations or sea level, you need to be prepared!

Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Take it easy, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol if you’re coming from lower elevation. If you feel severe symptoms (like confusion or difficulty breathing), descend to a lower elevation immediately.

If you can, give yourself time to acclimate before visiting the park. If possible, I recommend spending a night in Estes Park before heading straight to high-elevation hikes.

Two moose near Grand Lake entrance in Rocky Mountain National Park
Keep an eye for moose on the eastern side of the park

Wildlife Safety: Bears, Moose & More

RMNP is home to black bears, moose, elk, and mountain lions. My first visit to Rocky Mountain was the first time I saw elk and moose – and let me tell you, if you think that moose are just “bigger deer” – prepare yourself. Those things are literal dinosaurs!

Maintain a safe distance from elk, moose, bears, deer and mountain lions. Remember, ALL of these animals can be dangerous – especially elk during their mating season (late fall) and moose, who can and will charge over 35 mph.

If you have any food or scented items in your car, make sure to read and understand all food storage rules. When in doubt, keep all food items with you in your pack or secured in a bear box provided at a trailhead or campground.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Colorado’s late-summer monsoon season. Thunderstorms are especially common at high elevations. Plan to be off exposed trails by early afternoon to avoid lightning danger, and learn the basics of how to respond to lightning if you cannot move to a safer location.

frozen Emerald Lake in Winter

Seasonal Closures & Winter Conditions

Winter in RMNP is stunning but harsh—many areas become inaccessible due to snow and ice. If you’re planning on visiting RMNP during late fall to late spring, here’s some important info to keep in mind:

Now that you know the essentials, let’s dive into your one-day Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary!

Rocky Mountain National Park 1 Day Itinerary

I designed this itinerary to help you experience the most iconic landscapes – from high-alpine lakes to breathtaking mountain passes – even if you only have just one day in Rocky Mountain National Park.

To follow this plan, you’ll need a Park Access+ reservation, which includes the popular Bear Lake Corridor. If you don’t have a Park Access+ Reservation and are visiting when reservations are required to enter the park, here’s what I suggest:

  • Get an early morning Hiker Shuttle reservation in Estes Park (reservation required) and take the shuttle to Bear Lake. Return to Estes Park and enter the park to explore Trail Ridge Road after 2pm, when reservations are not required.
  • OR, Enter the Park before 9am in your own vehicle (if you enter before 7am, you’ll virtually have Trail Ridge Road to yourself!) and explore Trail Ridge Road. Return to Estes Park and take the Hiker Shuttle (reservation required) to Bear Lake in the afternoon.

This itinerary assumes you’re entering the park from the east, near Estes Park, Denver, or Boulder, and visiting during late spring to early fall when Trail Ridge Road is open. If you’re arriving from the Grand Lake side, you’ll drive Trail Ridge Road first and visit Bear Lake later in the day.

The itinerary is divided into two key areas: Bear Lake Corridor and Trail Ridge Road. While you can explore in any order, I recommended visiting Bear Lake in the morning to get parking and avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common at high elevations.

Flattop Mountain as seen from Emerald Lake in RMNP
Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Morning: Exploring Bear Lake Corridor

Bear Lake Corridor is the most popular area in Rocky Mountain National Park, offering stunning alpine scenery, tons of hiking trails, and easy access to some of the park’s most famous lakes.

Here, you’ll find options ranging from short, family-friendly walks to more strenuous hikes that take you deep into the backcountry.

Keep in mind that altitude is a major factor—many of these trails climb above 10,000 feet, and if you’re arriving from a lower elevation, even shorter hikes can feel significantly more challenging.

Need a map? Don’t forget to download your map and save it to your phone or GPS device before your hike! Get AllTrails+ (the most used trail app on my phone!) to download all your trail maps for offline use. Use my promo code brookeinboots30 to get 30% off your annual AllTrails+ subscription!

Sky Pond at Rocky Mountain National Park
Lake of Glass

Choose a hike based on your time and experience level:

Bear Lake Loop (30 minutes, easy, 0.7 miles) – A scenic, flat walk around Bear Lake with spectacular reflections of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide. Easily accessible from the Bear Lake trailhead and shuttle stop.

Alberta Falls (1 hour, easy, 1.6 miles) – A 1.6-mile round-trip hike to a stunning waterfall cascading through Glacier Gorge. This is a very popular trail to one of the most stunning waterfalls inside the park.

To reach this trail, begin from the Glacier Gorge trailhead and shuttle stop. Combine this hike with the Bear Lake loop by following the Bear Lake / Glacier Gorge connector trail, which adds about 0.5 miles one-way.

Thundering Alberta Falls - one of the favorite things to do at Rocky Mountain National Park
Alberta Falls

Dream, Nymph & Emerald Lakes (2 hours, moderate, 3.2 miles) – This iconic 3.6-mile hike visits three stunning alpine lakes, with the final Emerald Lake offering breathtaking views of jagged peaks and lingering snowfields on high alpine peaks around you.

This is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park – and for good reason. With a moderate amount of effort you’re rewarded with views that are, quite simply, mind-bogglingly beautiful.

But don’t expect any alpine solitude here, you’ll likely be sharing the view with dozens of other hikers – be patient and courteous to your fellow hikers, don’t play loud music (or any music), and for god’s sake, pick up your trash.

Flattop Mountain at Dream Lake
Nymph, Dream (pictured here) and Emerald Lake is one of the most popular trails in RMNP

The Loch & Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge (4 hours, moderate-strenuous, 8.6 miles) – A challenging but rewarding 8.6-mile hike that takes you past waterfalls, alpine meadows, and deep blue lakes before reaching the spectacular Sky Pond. This trail leaves from the Glacier Gorge trailhead and ascends past Alberta Falls through a narrow canyon and lake called “The Loch.”

In order to reach the final two lakes, the Lake of Glass and Sky Pond, you’ll need to scramble up a 30-foot waterfall Timberline Falls. If you have an extreme fear of heights, this might not be the trail for you, but if you’re careful and take your time, you’ll be fine. This is my favorite hike in RMNP – if you have the time and the stamina, it is SO worth it!

Lake of Glass looking towards Sky Pond and Taylor Glaicer in Rocky Mountain National Park
Lake of Glass is more strenuous, but so worth the effort!

Four Lakes Loop (4 hours, strenuous, 7.9 miles) – A route that connects 5 of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Bear Lake area: Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha, and the Loch. The truly ambitious can make this a “Six Lakes Loop” by adding the Sky Pond Trail, making this a respectable 10.9 miles, strenuous trek.

I recommend you be an experienced hiker and be fully acclimated to the elevation before attempting this trail. But if you have the time and stamina, you’ll be rewarded with view after view of some of the most gorgeous alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Sharkstooth at Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park
The Sharkstooth from Sky Pond

Which Bear Lake hike is right for me?

If you’re traveling with young children, short on time, or otherwise looking for a short and easy hike, Bear Lake and Alberta Falls are excellent quick options.

For first-time visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park, or those looking for a moderate adventure, Dream, Nymph, and Emerald Lakes provide a perfect balance of effort and epic alpine reward.

If you’re up for a more challenging trek, the trail to The Loch and Sky Pond is one of the most breathtaking hikes in the park, and my personal favorite pick if you have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The open tundra with trail ridge road in the distance
Trail Ridge Road winds its way through the tundra

Afternoon: Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

After your morning in Bear Lake Corridor, shift gears and explore Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America.

This 48-mile scenic highway crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass and reaches a peak elevation of 12,183 feet, offering jaw-dropping views and the chance to experience the alpine tundra ecosystem up close.

The tundra is a unique ecosystem above the tree line where only hardy grasses, wildflowers, and low-growing plants can survive in extreme conditions.

Because the tundra is incredibly fragile and slow to recover from damage, it’s especially important to stay on designated trails, avoid stepping on vegetation, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect this delicate environment for future visitors.

FYI, temperatures along Trail Ridge Road are significantly cooler than at lower elevations, so bring layers—even in summer, it’s not uncommon to encounter strong winds or even snow at the highest points throughout the year.

Forest Canyon overlook trail sign
Forest Canyon Overlook

Overlooks and Stops on Trail Ridge Road

There are dozens of overlooks, short and long trails and side-quests along trail ridge road. With only 1 day in RMNP, you won’t have time to visit all of them.

Here are some of my favorite spots along Trail Ridge Road to get out of your car and experience the high-alpine tundra up close.:

Many Parks Curve Overlook Trail sign
Many Parks Curve Overlook

Many Parks Curve Overlook (9,620 feet) – From this forested overlook at a hairpin turn in Trail Ridge Road, you get amazing views of the many “parks” – large low land meadows formed by glacial lakes – that dot the area. From here you can see Horseshoe Park, Little Horseshoe Park, Moraine Park, and of course Estes Park, just outside RMNP.

Rainbow Curve Overlook (10,829 feet) – A panoramic viewpoint at offering sweeping views of Horseshoe Park (the giant meadow before you) and the mountains beyond. Rainbow Curve sits right at the tree-line, meaning the highest elevation that trees can grow. Take note of the plant life around you here, because things are about to change quickly!

Observation area at Forest Canyon overlook
Forest Canyon Overlook

Forest Canyon Overlook (11,716 feet) – Welcome to the alpine! Forest Canyon is one of the most dramatic overlooks along Trail Ridge Road, with a sheer drop-off into the stunning and rugged glacially carved valleys below. Park here and take the short path to the overlook – just make sure to stay ON the trail in this fragile area.

If you arrive early enough, this is a great spot for sunrise along Trail Ridge Road.

Alpine Ridge Trail and the Never Summer and Gore Range in the distance
Tundra Communities Trailhead

Tundra Communities Trailhead (12,110 feet) – Stretch your legs and catch your breath (literally, you’re at over 12,000′!) while learning about the tundra ecosystem on this easy paved trail. The entire path is 1 mile round trip, and includes several informational signs along the way.

Lava Cliffs Overlook (12,100 feet) – Get an inside look at the violent volcanic forces that helped create the rockies millions of years ago. From here you can see the bright red colorful cliffs created by lava flows and exposed by glaciers.

Just past Lava Cliffs, you’ll pass the unmarked summit of Trail Ridge Road – at 12,183 feet!

Gore Range Overlook (12,048 feet) – From here, take in stunning views of the distant Never Summer Mountains (which, what a great name, right?) and the Gore Range, including the highest point in the park, Longs Peak at 14,259 feet.

perpetually snowcapped Never Summer and Gore Range from Gore Range Overlook
The Never Summer Mountains and Gore Range

Alpine Visitor Center

Just past the Gore Range overlook and the summit of Trail Ridge Road is the Alpine Visitor Center. At 11,796 feet, its the highest elevation visitor center in the National Park system. Here there’s a large parking lot, restrooms, a small snack cafe, gift shop and ranger station.

It’s a great spot to enjoy a picnic or grab a bite and admire the views.

Just outside the Visitor Center, the Alpine Ridge Trail is a short but steep half-mile set of stairs leading to an overlook at 12,000′. If you didn’t get out at the Tundra Communities trailhead, this is a good spot to earn your bragging rights saying you “hiked to 12k'”.

Standing at 12,000' feet will take your breath away - literally!

Once you’ve had your fill of the tundra views (literally not possible in my opinion, but you know what I mean), you can turn around and return the way you came towards Estes Park, Denver and Boulder.

Not ready to end your day just yet? Looking for a longer hike through the tundra? Consider hiking the Ute Trail to Tombstone Ridge on your way back down Trail Ridge Road. This is a 4-mile out and back hike moderate hike with sweeping views of Longs Peak and Forest Canyon. The trail starts at Ute Trailhead – about halfway between Forest Canyon and the Rainbow Curve overlook.

If you’re continuing on towards Grand Lake – perhaps on an epic Colorado National Parks road trip – the continue east on Trail Ridge Road towards the Continental Divide at Milner Pass.

the alpine tundra from Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park - a must see even if you only have one day in rocky mountain national park

Evening: Wrapping Up Your Day in RMNP

If you’re returning to Estes Park, Boulder, or Denver, consider ending your day with dinner and drinks in Estes Park, the charming mountain town at the park’s eastern entrance. For a unique experience, take a ghost tour at the historic Stanley Hotel, famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining.

Where to Eat Near RMNP

After a full day of exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, you’re going to need a solid meal. Estes Park has plenty of dining options, from casual pizza spots to cozy taverns serving up hearty mountain fare.

  • Rock Inn Mountain Tavern – A classic mountain lodge serving up delicious comfort food with live music in the evenings. Try the bison meatloaf or elk burger.
  • Poppy’s Pizza & Grill – Great for families and groups, serving up pizza, burgers, and salads with a patio overlooking the river.
  • Boss Burgers and Gyros – A casual, no-frills burger and gyro joint that’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
  • Kind Coffee – If you’re taking the Hiker Shuttle into the park, stop by this cozy coffee shop near the Estes Park Visitor Center for locally roasted coffee and breakfast pastries.
Looking back at the The Loch from Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park
the Loch Vale and Rocky Mountains from Lake of Glass

Getting to Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is located in north-central Colorado and is easily accessible from several major cities and airports.

The park’s eastern entrances near Estes Park are the most popular and convenient for most visitors, while the western entrance at Grand Lake provides a quieter, less crowded experience.

Driving Distance and Drive Times to RMNP

Here’s how long it takes to drive to the park from key locations:

  • Estes Park, CO → RMNP: ~10 minutes (5 miles)
  • Denver, CO → RMNP: ~1.5 hours (75 miles)
  • Boulder, CO → RMNP: ~1.5 hours (50 miles)
  • Colorado Springs, CO → RMNP: ~3 hours (155 miles)
  • Cheyenne, WY → RMNP: ~2 hours (100 miles)
  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park → RMNP: ~5.5 hours (275 miles)
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park → RMNP: ~5 hours (260 miles)
  • Mesa Verde National Park → RMNP: ~7.5 hours (400 miles)

If you’re flying into Colorado, the closest major airport is Denver International Airport (DEA), which is about 90 minutes (75 miles) from the park’s eastern entrance. Another option is Cheyenne Regional Airport (CYS) in Wyoming, which is about 2 hours (100 miles) away. While Colorado Springs Regional Airport (COS) does offer a small number of commercial flights, it is a 3-hour drive (155 miles) to RMNP.

For those visiting from the west side of Colorado, the Grand Lake entrance is the most accessible. However, keep in mind that Trail Ridge Road closes seasonally from late fall to late spring, meaning you may need to drive around the mountains instead of through them.

the Hiker Shuttle from Estes Park to Bear Lake
The Hiker Shuttle is a convenient alternative to reaching Bear Lake Road trails without a Timed Entry Reservation.

Estes Park Hiker Shuttle

If you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park and don’t have a Park Access+ Reservation, the Hiker Shuttle is a great alternative. This shuttle departs from the Estes Park Visitor Center and takes passengers to the Park & Ride Transit Hub inside Rocky Mountain National Park, located along Bear Lake Road.

Once inside the park, you can hop on free shuttles to reach the most popular trailheads and scenic areas along the Bear Lake Corridor—eliminating the need for a Park Access+ Reservation.

Important details about the Hiker Shuttle:

  • Reservations are required and must be booked through Recreation.gov
  • Tickets cost $2 per transaction (not per person)
  • Shuttle service operates seasonally from late spring through early fall
  • The shuttle does NOT operate on the west side of the park or across Trail Ridge Road

While Hiker Shuttle reservations are required, they are usually easier to get than Park Access+ Timed Entry Reservations, making them a solid option if you don’t secure a regular vehicle entry pass.

Hiker Shuttle and Rocky Mountain National Park shuttle stops at Bear Lake Trailhead
Shuttle Bus stops are at all the major trailheads in the Bear Lake area

Shuttle Buses Inside RMNP

Once inside Rocky Mountain National Park, you can take advantage of two free shuttle routes that make it easier to explore the Bear Lake Corridor without worrying about parking.

  • Bear Lake Route: Runs between the Park & Ride lot and key trailheads, including Bear Lake, Glacier Gorge, and Sprague Lake.
  • Moraine Park Route: Connects Moraine Park Campground, Glacier Basin Campground, and the Park & Ride lot.

These shuttles operate seasonally from late spring through early fall. To check the most up-to-date shuttle schedules and operating dates, visit the NPS website.

Using the shuttles can save you time, reduce congestion, and help you explore the park more efficiently—especially during peak summer months when parking fills up insanely quickly.

the view of Forest Canyon from Forest Canyon overlook

Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park

If you want to make the most of your one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, staying in Estes Park is your best bet. This charming mountain town sits right at the park’s eastern entrance and offers the quickest access to Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road, and other must-see areas.

However, due to its prime location, Estes Park hotels can be pricey, especially in peak season (summer and early fall), and budget options are limited.

Mid-Range Hotel Options

Coyote Mountain Lodge – A laid-back, comfortable stay near Lake Estes, offering great mountain views.

Murphy’s River Lodge – Located near Lake Estes, these properties offer clean, comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

Holiday Inn Estes Park – A reliable chain hotel option with solid amenities and easy access to downtown Estes Park.

Upscale Hotel Options

Trailborn Rocky Mountains – A stylish, newly renovated hotel with a boutique feel and stunning mountain views.

The Stanley Hotel – The iconic, historic hotel that inspired The Shining. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth stopping by for a drink or a ghost tour.

Staying in Boulder or Denver

If Estes Park is booked or out of budget, staying in Boulder or Denver can be a great option, especially if you’re flying in and out of Denver International Airport.

  • Boulder (1.5 hours to RMNP) – A lively college town with great restaurants, breweries, and access to hiking in the Flatirons. Ideal if you want to explore more of Colorado before or after your RMNP visit.
  • Denver (1.5–2 hours to RMNP) – More affordable lodging options, plus access to a major airport and endless food, nightlife, and cultural attractions.

While staying in Boulder or Denver means an early morning drive to the park, it can be a good alternative if you’re looking for cheaper lodging or a quick city adventure before heading into the mountains.


Final Thoughts on Your One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

Spending one day in Rocky Mountain National Park is an unforgettable experience, packed with breathtaking mountain views, alpine lakes, and incredible wildlife.

While a single day is just a glimpse of what RMNP has to offer, it’s enough to leave you wanting to come back for more. So lace up your hiking boots, start early, and get ready for an epic day in the Rockies!

More Adventures in Colorado

Epic One Day Great Sand Dunes National Park Itinerary

How to Spend One Epic Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

15 Best Things to Do at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve 

Where to Stay Near Great Sand Dunes National Park: Hotels, Lodges & Camping

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