2-2 Hours
Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road
Rocky Mountain National Park
Enjoy scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities while driving on Trail Ridge Road. This is a 48 mile scenic drive that connects the communities of Estes Park and Grand Lake. Cresting at an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States.
Whether you start on the east or west side of Rocky Mountain National Park, enjoy scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities while driving on Trail Ridge Road. Cresting at an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. Trail Ridge Road is 48-miles one-way and connects the towns of Grand Lake and Estes Park during the summer season. One of the things that visitors enjoy most at Rocky Mountain National Park is the incredible scenic views. Along Trail Ridge Road, enjoy views of mountain peaks along the Continental Divide, look down upon valleys below, enjoy alpine lakes like Milner Lake and Lake Irene. In June and July, many species of wildflowers can be seen growing on alpine tundra. Enjoy a short walk on the Tundra Communities Trail near Rock Cut or at Forest Canyon Overlook. Always keep an eye out for wildlife. Wildlife can be found along the road and crossing the road. Look for elk, Mule deer, bighorn sheep, and Yellow-bellied marmots. This is a seasonal road open to vehicles from late May to mid-October. 11 miles of this road are located above treeline. There are no guardrails and there are steep drop-offs.
Tags
Scenic DrivingScenic ViewsRMNPtrail ridge roadscenic drives
Visitor Photos
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Details
Duration
2-2 Hours
Duration Details
It take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in steady traffic to drive across Trail Ridge Road one-way.
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Summer, Fall
Accessibility
Trail Ridge Road is a paved road that is 48-miles one-way. There are many pullouts, scenic overlooks, and parking areas along the road. Flush or vault toilets are located at many stops, including at Kawuneeche Visitor Center, Milner Pass, Rock Cut, Alpine Visitor Center, Rainbow Curve, Hidden Valley, and Beaver Meadows Visitor Center.
Pets
Yes — Pets and owners have a special bond. But a national park is not always the best place for pets. Rocky Mountain National Park is a designated natural area, and its purpose is to preserve and protect the park's natural conditions, scenic beauty, and wildlife. Pets are prohibited on ALL Rocky Mountain National Park trails, tundra, and meadows Leashed pets may accompany you only in the following areas: Along established roads or in parking areas In established campgrounds and picnic areas Pets must be kept on leashes no longer than six feet. Pets may not make noise that impacts visitors or wildlife. Pet owners must pick up and dispose of pet excrement in trash receptacles.
Reservations
Yes — From late May to mid-October, a timed entry reservation is required to enter all areas of Rocky Mountain National Park during certain times of the day. Depending on when you plan to start your hike, you might need a timed entry reservation. Visit the RMNP Timed Entry page on Recreation.gov for details and to make a reservation.
Location
Alpine Visitor Center