Few sights in the wild rival the majesty of a bighorn sheep perched on a rocky ledge, surveying its rugged domain. If you’re heading to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and hoping to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, you’re in for a treat! Here’s everything you need to know to increase your chances of spotting bighorn sheep in RMNP.
Sheep Lakes
Arguably the most famous bighorn sheep viewing area in RMNP, Sheep Lakes is a prime location to see these animals, especially in the spring and early summer. Located in Horseshoe Park, this area provides lush meadows where bighorns often descend to graze and drink water. Rangers sometimes close the area to ensure the safety of both visitors and the sheep, so be sure to check with park officials upon arrival.
Trail Ridge Road
One of the park’s most iconic drives, Trail Ridge Road climbs to over 12,000 feet, offering spectacular views and a good chance of encountering bighorn sheep. These agile climbers favor high elevations, so keep your binoculars handy as you scan rocky outcrops along the drive, especially near the Alpine Visitor Center.
Fall River Road
For a more adventurous route, take the one-way Old Fall River Road, which winds through some of the park’s more remote and rugged terrain. Bighorn sheep are known to frequent the steep cliffs and rocky slopes along this route, making for some breathtaking wildlife encounters.
The Loch Vale and Glacier Gorge Area
If you’re up for a scenic hike, head to Loch Vale or Glacier Gorge. These areas provide stunning alpine landscapes that are home to bighorn sheep, particularly in the summer months when they move higher into the mountains.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging to enjoy after a bighorn sheep Rocky Mountain National Park adventure. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
