One Great Weekend – How to Spend Two Days in Rocky Mountain National Park

Few places capture the grandeur of Colorado quite like Rocky Mountain National Park. With glacial lakes, grand waterfalls and towering peaks all within an easy drive of Denver it’s no surprise that Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country. While you can spend a lifetime exploring Rocky Mountain National Park you can get a taste of what makes this park great in just a weekend. Here are my recommendations for spending two days in Rocky Mountain National Park.

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How to Get to Rocky Mountain National Park

Denver is the closest major city and international airport to Rocky Mountain National Park. The majority of visitors rent a car and drive the 80+ miles to Estes Park. You can also take a shuttle with Estes Park Shuttle ,but having a car would give you the greatest flexibility when visiting the park.

Travel Tips for Rocky Mountain National Park

• First and foremost be sure to check the Rocky Mountain National Park website to determine if you’ll need reservations (now required during high season) as well as for trail conditions or road closures.
• The altitude in Rocky Mountain National Park starts at 7,800 feet and the highest peaks tower over 14,000 feet. If you are coming from a lower altitude be sure to build in some time to acclimate. Plan easier hikes at lower altitudes in the park to prepare for more strenuous hikes with altitude gain.
• The right gear can make your hikes more comfortable and safe. Hiking boots with good tread and ankle support are key for any hike and trekking poles can help take pressure off of your joints. ( Take a look at these great hiking boots for women and this guide for Essential Winter Hiking Gear).
• Make sure to drink plenty of water. Colorado is much drier than you may think and the high altitude can dehydrate you more quickly.
• From the famed elk herds to bears and everything in between Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for wildlife, but be sure to observe from a safe distance. Don’t approach wildlife or get out of your car for a better view, both for your safety and that of the wildlife.

Where to Stay in Estes Park

Estes Park is the gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park and accommodations range from family friendly motels to historic luxury hotels. I stayed at Murphy’s River Lodge, a recently renovated boutique motel that is exceedingly comfortable with a free continental breakfast, pool and fire pit. The famed Stanley Hotel, a storied grand dame hotel that inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining” would be choice if you are looking for something a bit more luxurious. Even if you don’t stay at the Stanley be sure to take one of their ghost tours (reservations required) or grab a drink at the famed Whiskey Bar.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses over 415 square miles with countless hikes and ways to enjoy the park. The following hikes are how I experienced my first visit to RMNP, they are moderate hikes and will take about 2-4 hours depending on your fitness/penchant for stopping and enjoying pretty views.

Day One – Wild Basin Trail to Ouzel Falls

For your first day in Rocky Mountain National Park I highly recommend starting in the Wild Basin area. This area of the park is typically less visited but has beautiful views in spades. The Wild Basin Trailhead is also at a lower elevation than other areas of the park making it a great area to hike while you get acclimated to the altitude. The Wild Basin Trailhead is located about 16 miles south of Estes Park. The full out and back hike to Ouzel Falls is 5.4 miles round trip with 870 feet of elevation gain and passes several different waterfalls. The first waterfall at 0.3 miles is Lower Copeland Falls followed by Upper Copeland Falls. 2 miles into the hike you’ll reach Calypso Cascades, which at 200 feet high is quite impressive, especially in spring and early summer. At 2.7 miles you’ll come to Ouzel Falls, that is best viewed from the footbridge that crosses Ouzel Creek.

Day Two -Emerald Lake Hike

Make sure to get an early start on day two as the hike to Bear, Dream, Nymph and Emerald Lakes is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and the parking lot can fill up quite early. Take the Beaver Meadow Entrance to the Bear Lake Trailhead, located about 13 miles west of Estes Park. This hike is 3.6 miles round trip and tops out at an elevation of 10,100 feet (which is why I recommend you spend a day or two acclimating, especially if you like at or near sea level like me). Just beyond the trailhead is Bear Lake, the first of four stunning alpine lakes which is a very popular stop due to it’s proximity to the parking lot. Continue 0.5 miles to Nymph Lake, which offers glimpses of Long and Hallett Peak from it’s shores. The next section of the hike is fairly steep with great views both from the trail and Dream Lake. Walk along the north shore of Dream Lake to continue onto Emerald Lake, which is located 1.8 miles from the trailhead. With a brilliant blue-green hue among the backdrop of the jagged mountain summits Emerald Lake is truly a jewel in Rocky Mountain National Park and well worth the effort.

If you like this article be sure to check out some of my other posts!

Breckenridge Summer Travel Guide

Banff National Park Travel Guide

Zion National Park – Hiking the Narrows in the Winter

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