5 of The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023
Are you searching for the best drives in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Look no further! Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is one of the most beautiful parks in the United States and is full of scenic drives, endless hiking, gorgeous views, and so much to do.
Continue reading below to discover the best scenic drives in Rocky Mountain National Park so that you can capture all of Colorado’s natural beauty and enjoy a road trip or two as Abby from Trekking Price’s shares some favorites!
The Ultimate List of The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park
While the roads traveling through Rocky Mountain National Park are somewhat limited, the epic views and wildlife viewing opportunities are not. These Rocky Mountain National Park drives give you the best opportunity to see everything.
1. Trail Ridge Road
Distance: 48 miles
Trail Ridge Road is one of the most famous scenic drives in the United States and resides in Rocky Mountain National Park.
This drive connects Grand Lake to Estes Park and will guide you throughout Rocky Mountain National Park as you climb to over 12,000 feet above sea level.
This road is considered to be the highest continually paved road in the United States and provides you with some truly epic views of the state of Colorado.
Throughout your drive, you will gain tremendous views of the Rocky Mountains, be able to stop at countless pull-offs and scenic overlooks along the way, and may even encounter a wildlife sighting or two.
Be sure to stop at the Alpine Visitor Center along Trail Ridge Road to enjoy more of the stunning views!
2. Bear Lake Road
Distance: 23 miles
Bear Lake Road is a fabulous scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park. This drive is roughly 20 miles in length and takes you from Upper Beaver Meadows to Bear Lake.
This is one of the best drives in Rocky Mountain National Park because it takes you along the national park as you gain views of mountains, the Colorado wilderness landscape, and various alpine lakes in the area.
Bear Lake Road also provides access to many epic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, including Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Mills Lake, and Sprague Lake.
3. Old Fall River Road
Distance: 11 miles
Old Fall River Road is another one of the best drives in Rocky Mountain National Park. This drive is roughly 10 miles in length and has quite a few switchbacks throughout the journey.
This one-way road is a dirt path that climbs up to over 11,700 feet above sea level. This drive does require a bit more caution and a slower speed due to the terrain, but you will gain some seriously incredible views of the Colorado Rockies throughout your journey.
Make sure to be on the lookout for Colorado wildlife in the area! It is not uncommon to see elk, deer, or moose roaming around the areas surrounding Old Fall River Road.
You can also access beautiful waterfalls like Alluvial Fan and Chasm Falls via short walks.
The Best Scenic Drives Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park are a handful of scenic drives that will give you some seriously incredible views of Colorado and its natural beauty. Check out our two favorite recommendations below!
4. Peak to Peak
Distance: 55 miles
The Peak to Peak scenic drive is another excellent option for those looking to hop in their car and go for a road trip that will provide you with some truly remarkable views!
This drive is just under 60 miles in length and takes you from Estes Park to Black Hawk. As you drive down this scenic byway, you will gain views of the surrounding Colorado wilderness and Rocky Mountains.
5. The Colorado River Headwaters
Distance: 80 miles
Located just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park is The Colorado River Headwaters scenic byway. This drive is 80 miles in length and takes you along the Colorado River.
This is an excellent scenic drive in Colorado for those looking to gain incredible views of the surrounding Colorado wilderness as well as the Colorado River!
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife encounters such as moose, deer, elk, or bears in the area! The wildlife love to come out and spend time by the Colorado River so this is the perfect drive for those looking to take in the Colorado wilderness scenery and hopefully see some of Colorado’s wildlife too!
Things to Know Before Going On The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Pack Snacks – You can expect to spend at least a few hours in Rocky Mountain National Park when visiting the area and going on one (or multiple) marvelous scenic drives throughout the park. Make sure to pack snacks in advance so that you stay full and happy while taking in the gorgeous scenery.
- Stay Hydrated – It’s easy to get dehydrated when exploring in Colorado. Due to the increased elevation and countless things to do and see, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated while adventuring. Be sure to drink plenty of water and electrolytes as you take in the scenic views of the Colorado landscape as you explore one of the best drives in Rocky Mountain National Park so that you stay healthy!
- Fill Up On Gas – You will be spending several hours in Rocky Mountain National Park and many of these roads will take you to some remote areas with little to no cell phone service, make sure to fill up on gas in advance so that you don’t have to worry about running out while in the Colorado wilderness!
- Consider The Time of Year – Colorado is known for their epic winters and fabulous snow, make sure that you take this into consideration when planning a drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. Most of these drives are best done between Memorial Day and Labor Day so that you have the best and safest conditions for driving through the Colorado Rockies.
- Bring Layers – No matter what time of year it is, bring layers with you when exploring the Colorado mountains. Due to the increased elevation, it is easy to get cold when exploring Rocky Mountain National Park or one of its famous scenic drives as you explore thousands of feet above sea level.
- Go On A Hike – Hiking is one of the best activities to embark on when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. We highly recommend that you take some time to jump out of the car, stretch your legs, and go on one of the marvelous hikes in the area! There are plenty of hikes to choose from, from easy hikes around Rocky Mountain lakes to ascending to Sky Pond. Be sure to bring along your favorite energy bars for hiking or your favorite energy foods for hiking so that you stay energized while out on the trails.
- Consider a Tour – For those looking to experience the park in a unique light, consider booking a Sunset and Night Photography Tour on Trail Ridge Road. This is a unique tour that will teach you about night photography, take you along the famous Trail Ridge Road, and allow you to see and capture Rocky Mountain National Park from a new perspective.
The Best Hotels Near Rocky Mountain National Park
There are countless hotels to choose from near Rocky Mountain National Park. Check out our list of favorites below to help make your decision a bit easier!
- Budget-friendly: Grand Lake Lodge – For those looking for one of the best budget-friendly accommodation options near Rocky Mountain National Park, look no further! This hotel is in a great location right near Grand Lake and within a short drive of the park.
- Mid-range: The Landing at Estes Park – A fabulous mid-range option in the area is The Landing. This hotel has a beautiful rustic aesthetic and the location is great right near Estes Park.
- Luxury: The Estes Park Resort – For those searching for a luxurious resort in the area, The Estes Park Resort is a fabulous option! This hotel has some truly incredible views, is right on Lake Estes, and has some tremendous amenities including a spa and the Dunraven Restaurant.
FAQs About The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park
What is the most scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park?
One of the most scenic drives in Rocky Mountain National Park is Trail Ridge Road. This road takes you to about 12,000 feet above sea level and you will gain exceptional views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding Colorado landscape.
What is the best drive through the Rockies in Colorado?
Trail Ridge Road is one of the best drives through the Rockies due to its incredible views.
Can I just drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?
You can definitely drive through Rocky Mountain National Park without getting out of your vehicle and exploring the national park on foot. It’s important to note that you will have to pay an entrance fee to enter the park though.
What is the most scenic drive to Estes Park?
Trail Ridge Road is the most scenic drive to Estes Park as it takes you through Rocky Mountain National Park and gives you views of the beautiful Colorado mountains.
Final Thoughts On The Best Drives in Rocky Mountain National Park
The best drives in Rocky Mountain National Park all provide you with some incredible views and photo opportunities!
We recommend driving Trail Ridge Road for a truly memorable road trip. For those looking to take in some seriously jaw-dropping views of Colorado’s famous alpine lakes, be sure to check out Bear Lake Road. Both of these drives are remarkable and make for great scenic road trips around Rocky Mountain National Park.
