Note: Make sure to check if the shuttle is currently running. Not that daring? Park at the Estes Park Visitors Center and take the free shuttle into the park. So, if you’re willing to take a chance, go for it. We’ve found that even though the sign says “parking full,” it’s NOT ALWAYS true! Parking is also likely to be a challenge during busier months, and you may not be able to find a parking spot at the key stops although it’s always worth a try. See this Rocky Mountain National Park map for driving directions, and here are some tips to help your car handle the steep inclines and declines. There are also several hiking trails that start at this lake. The most popular driving route is the 11-mile Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest continuously paved highway in North America.Īnother option is Bear Lake Road, which is 23 miles roundtrip to Bear Lake, one of the busiest areas of the park. See our picks for best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park below. There are many points where traffic slows to a crawl, especially if some wildlife is spotted by the side of the road!Īllow even more time if you want to hike inside the park, as the hike alone could take several hours depending on which hike you choose. If you plan to drive through the park, allot most of your day for this activity. Create an account at and then check if a permit is needed and if so, reserve your permit HERE. They do hold some slots for last minute reservations which can be purchased the day before your planned entry. NOTE: During certain months, you may be required to have a timed entry permit in order to enter the park by car unless you have a service reservation in the park such as camping, horseback riding or a commercial tour. Other airlines that fly into Denver, include: If you fill this in, you will be marked as a spammer.

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