Rocky Mountain National Park in 2 Days: A Local’s Guide to the Best Stops

Rocky Mountain National Park stretches across Colorado’s Continental Divide, offering dramatic alpine scenery, abundant wildlife, and some of the best hiking in the state. It’s one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the summer—and a standout stop on any longer Colorado itinerary. With so many trails, scenic drives, and places to stay, planning a visit can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks it all down into a simple, well-paced plan to help you make the most of 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park.

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Table of Contents

• Top 5 Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer
• Rocky Mountain National Park 2 Day Itinerary
  • Day 1 Morning: Bear Lake Corridor Hikes and Walks
  • Day 1 Lunch: Sprague Lake Picnic Area
  • Day 1 Afternoon: Visitor Centers and Ranger-Led Programs
  • Day 1 Evening: Astronomy Programs and Star Gazing
  • Day 2 Morning: Trail Ridge Road
  • Day 2 Lunch: Alpine Visitor Center or Lake Irene
  • Day 2 Afternoon: West Side of the Park and Grand Lake
  • Day 2 Evening: Lake View Sunset from Grand Lake Lodge’s Porch
• Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
• How to Get Timed Entry Permits and Passes
• Where to Enter and Exit Rocky Mountain National Park
• Where to Stay in Rocky Mountain National Park
• Essential Hiking Tips

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Top 5 Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer

1. Scenic Drive Along Trail Ridge Road

No visit to the park is complete without driving along Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest continuous paved road in North America. It tops out at a whopping 12,183 ft (3,713 m). Trail Ridge Road offers panoramic views of the Rockies and is only open when they can keep the road clear of snow. This is typically from Memorial Day to mid-October, though in 2024, the road didn’t open until early June. Check the park website for status before heading out. Our 2-day itinerary below includes information about where to stop for the best views, photos, and hikes on this scenic drive.

2. Hikes and Walks

One of the park’s main attractions is hiking, with 300 miles of trails available to explore. Some of the more popular trails in the Bear Lake Corridor include easier hikes such as Sprague, Bear, and Alberta Falls trails. More moderate and challenging hikes in the area include Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Mills Pond, and Sky Pond. If you don’t have a Bear Lake Corridor entry permit, don’t worry, you still have plenty of great options. For an easier hike, consider Adam’s Falls on the west side of the part. Moderate to Challenging choices are Ouzel Falls, Cascade Falls, and Chasm Lake. See our top 12 day hikes in RMNP for detailed recommendations.

3. Wildlife Spotting

The best times to see wildlife in the park are early morning and dusk. Bighorn sheep, moose, and elk are frequently seen in the park. Don’t miss a visit in the fall, when you’re likely to hear the elk bugling during mating season. Check in at the visitor’s centers to get recommendations on where to see animals in the park on any given day. Always follow park guidelines for keeping your distance from the animals, both to protect you and the animals. Some of the places where they are frequently seen are:

• Elk: Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, Upper Beaver Meadows
• Bighorn sheep: Horseshoe Park
• Moose: Kawuneeche Valley (west side of the park), Grand Lake (East and North inlet trails), Sheep Lake (east side of the park). You’ll often see moose in and around Grand Lake as well.
• Marmots: all over the ridge of Trail Ridge Road.

4. Photography

Many visitors come to Rocky Mountain National Park to capture photos of the wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Sunrise and sunsets are popular times to capture photos at Dream Lake and Emerald Lake and Trail Ridge Road is another hot spot. Consider signing up for a photography tour in the park during sunset or at night to catch some of the best shots.

5. Ranger-Led Programs and Visitor Centers

The park’s ranger-led programs are a great way for the whole family to engage and learn about the park. The park’s summer programs typically include junior ranger programs, guided hikes (including wildflowers and alpine tundra hikes), birding, fishing, and more. The night sky and astronomy program held in Beaver Meadows is a perennial favorite.

There are 4 primary visitor centers in the park, with additional information outposts and historical sites. The big 4 are:

• Beaver Meadows Visitor Center near Estes Park
• Fall River Visitor Center near Estes Park
• Kawuneeche Visitor Center near Grand Lake
• Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road

Rocky Mountain National Park 2 Day Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Estes Park and ends in Grand Lake, allowing you to see the highlights of Rocky Mountain National Park in 2 days. Target getting a 6-8 am or 8-10 am timed entry permit including the Bear Lake Corridor for day 1. You won’t need a Bear Lake Corridor specific timed entry permit for day 2 (see more information on timed entry permits below). This itinerary requires a car, since the park shuttles don’t cover all of this route. We use and recommend renting via Discover Cars if you need a rental car.

Day 1 Morning: Bear Lake Corridor Hikes

Start your 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park by entering through the Beaver Meadows Entrance. To avoid crowds, start early and visit the Bear Lake Corridor first. It’s generally easiest to park at the Bear Lake park & ride lots. Catch the free Bear Lake shuttle from there to the trailhead. The shuttle stops at Bierstadt Lake trailhead, then Glacier Gorge Trailhead, and finally at Bear Lake Trailhead. Visitors to Sprague Lake take the Moraine Park shuttle (be sure it is headed in the direction of Sprague Lake first). There are plenty of rangers directing people to buses who can answer any questions.

Walk or hike one or more of the Bear Lake Corridor trails. The Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake hike is a perennial favorite for visitors who would like a moderate hike (the Lake Haiyaha segment is an optional add-on). If you prefer having a guide for your hike, consider this 4 hour guided tour that includes timed entry permits.

Our recommended trails include:

Day 1 Lunch: Sprague Lake Picnic Area

Wrap up your morning with a picnic lunch either during your hike or afterwards at Sprague Lake. There is a large picnic area at the trailhead, and many people enjoy fishing or playing in the water in the creek (when the water levels are safe). There is often parking available at Sprague Lake, but the Moraine Park shuttle also runs frequently from the Park & Ride.

Day 1 Afternoon: Visitor Centers and Ranger-Led Programs

Stop by one of the many visitor centers and participate in one of their educational programs. Look for programs in the Bear Lake Corridor or the east side of the park. Check out the latest schedule before you go. The fishing, junior ranger, and RockyLAB programs are almost always a hit with kids.

Some of the recommended stops on the east side of the park are the Moraine Discovery Center, Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, and Fall River Visitor Center.

If you’re looking for a more active afternoon, consider doing additional hikes or take a trail ride in the park.

Day 1 Evening: Astronomy Programs and Star Gazing

A fantastic way to wrap up your 1st of 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park is to participate in the night sky and astronomy program held in Beaver Meadows. On many summer Friday evenings, rangers or volunteers set up telescopes near the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead. On select Tuesdays, the Moraine Discovery Center has telescopes and other family activities. The 2024 Astronomy Festival offers 2 days of evening astronomy and family fun at the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead, August 2-3, 2024.

If you prefer to stargaze on your own, Sprague Lake, Bear Lake and Trail Ridge Road are great options.

Day 2 Morning: Trail Ridge Road

Day 2 starts with a drive up Trail Ridge Road, which reaches 12,183 ft (3,713 m) in elevation. Consider participating in a tundra nature walk with the rangers, held most summer mornings at Medicine Bow Curve. On Thursdays, the rangers offer a longer alpine adventure walk at Forest Canyon Overlook. If you prefer to hike on your own, some of our recommended trails with spectacular views are:

There are a number of overlooks to stop at, where visitors only need to go a step out of the car for stunning views and photos. On the way up to the Alpine Visitor Center, check out Many Parks Curve, with its panoramic views over Horseshoe Park and Bighorn Mountain. At the Forest Canyon Overlook, on a clear day, there are great views of Long’s Peak as well as the forest canyon below.

Day 2: Lunch at the Alpine Visitor Center or Lake Irene

The Alpine Visitor Center has a café, which is a nice option for a coffee or light lunch. Many of the overlooks can be beautiful picnic spots if it’s not too windy. Alternatively, picnic at Lake Irene (on the descent towards the west side of the park).

Day 2 Afternoon: West Side of the Park and Grand Lake

Descend through the Kawuneeche Valley towards Grand Lake. Some of the top spots we’d recommend stopping on the way are:

• Lake Irene Trail: an easy 0.8 mile trail to a mountain lake, with fishing and picnic spots.
• Coyote Valley Trail: an easy 1.9 mile wheelchair and stroller-accessible trail along the creek, with beautiful views across the valley. We’ve spotted moose many times on the trail and near the trailhead.
• Holzwarth Historic Site: there is a ranger talk about homesteading in the afternoons held at the Fleshuts Cabin at the parking area. Walk another 1/2 mile to explore to the historic site itself.
• Kawuneeche Visitor Center: check out the many ranger programs held on the west side of the park, whether fishing, critter chats, or Recreate Like a Ranger.

Day 2 Additional Grand Lake Activities

If you still have time left in the afternoon, explore the area in and around Grand Lake. Consider adding a day to the trip to spend a full day in Grand Lake. Some of our recommended activities are:

• Adams Falls Trail: an easy 0.6 mile hike to the falls, with an option to continue on the more challenging East Inlet Trail.
• Cascade Falls Trail: a moderate 6 mile trail leads to beautiful waterfalls from the North Inlet Trailhead.
• Kayaking or paddle boarding on Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Reservoir: the Mountain Paddlers is conveniently located right next to the town beach offering kayaks and Rocky Mountain Paddleboard is located in the dirt lot just below the Western Riviera Motel.
• Pontoon boat rentals on Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Reservoir. Our favorite rental spot is Trail Ridge Marina on Shadow Mountain Reservoir. You can take the boats through the channel to explore Grand Lake.
• Have an ice cream at Miyauchi’s Snack Bar after taking a dip in the cold waters at the beach.
• Shopping at the cute shops along the boardwalk in town.

Day 2 Evening: Lake View Sunset on Grand Lake Lodge’s Porch

Wrap up your 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park with a visit to the Grand Lake Lodge. Whether you opt to stay here, have dinner at the Huntington House Tavern, or just have a drink on the front porch, this is the spot to watch the sunset over Grand Lake.

Where to Stay in Rocky Mountain National Park

There are countless options for places to stay for your visit. We'd recommend staying near Estes Park for the night before you start this itinerary and after day 1. After day 2, you can either drive the 2.5 hours back to Denver or Boulder, or stay in the Grand Lake area on the west side. When comparing Grand Lake vs Estes Park, you'll find that each town has its own personality, and both are worth a visit.

Lodging on the East Side of Rocky Mountain National Park

Lodging on the West Side of Rocky Mountain National Park

Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

The ideal time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is between June and September. This is when the weather is best for hikes and Trail Ridge Road is typically open. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, consider a visit in May or October. The park is one of the best places to see fall colors in Colorado, especially between mid-September to the 1st week in October (though this varies by year). For those who enjoy winter sports, visiting RMNP in winter is wonderful for snowshoeing, winter hikes cross-country skiing, and winter photography.

Keep in mind that Trail Ridge Road, which connects the east and west sides of the park, is only open when it is clear of snow. When it's closed, you can visit the east side of the park and drive around to the west side though this is not ideal. The drive takes 3.5-4.5 hours. It's better than to pick one side of the park to visit.

Timed Entry Permits and Passes

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park offers an unforgettable experience, blending awe-inspiring natural beauty with adventure. To make the most of your trip, it's essential to plan ahead.

Entry of pets into the park: pets are allowed in the park, but must be kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash. They are allowed ONLY in established roads, parking areas, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Timed Entry System

RMNP has 2 different types of timed entry permits, one to get you into the park, and one to enter the park and the popular Bear Lake Road Corridor.

General park entry: May 22 and October 12 , you need a permit to enter the park between 9 am and 2 pm. No timed entry permit is needed outside of these hours. You do still need a park entry pass.

General park entry + Bear Lake Road: May 22, 2026 and October 18, 2026, you need a special timed entry permit to enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor between 5 am and 6 pm. You can enter without a timed entry permit outside of these hours, though you need a park entry pass.

How to Get a Timed Entry Permit: All timed entry permits are purchased through the Recreation.gov site or their mobile app. You can buy advanced timed entry permits one month ahead of time (e.g., June 1st for July permits, July 1st for August permits). If you can't get an advanced permit, you can try to get a last minute permit. The park allocates 40% of their permits to this last minute category. At 7 pm of each day (MDT), last minute permits become available on the Recreation.gov site for the following day.

Where to Enter and Exit Rocky Mountain National Park

There are 4 main driving entrances to the park. Our 2-day itinerary starts in Estes Park and exits in Grand Lake. Estes Park is less than an hour from Boulder and less than 1.5 hours from Denver by car. Grand Lake is about 2.5 hours from Denver on average.

Visiting in Winter? Check out our helpful tips on Renting a Car in Colorado for Your Ski Trip!

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Essential Hiking Tips

• Mountain weather: Always check the forecast before heading out and watch for rapid weather changes. When you see bad weather coming, get below timberline.
• Hydration and Fuel: Bring more water for your day hikes than you think you'll need. Electrolytes can help you stay hydrated (e.g., Nuun and LiquidIV). Don't drink water from streams and ponds, unless you are using a LifeStraw or similar. Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars.
• Leave no Trace: Preserve the natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of the wildlife in the area. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals and know what to do in an encounter with local animals.
• Navigation: If you are using a map on your phone, make sure that it is downloaded. Cell service can be unreliable in the wilderness areas. Inform someone of your hiking plan and expected return time.
• First Aid: Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries. This should include, at minimum, Band-Aids, antiseptic, aspirin, mirror, matches, and a jack-knife, a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool.
• Check our post on Day Hike Essentials for a more comprehensive list of items to bring on your day hike.

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