While Rocky Mountain National Park can take many days, and even weeks to explore, there is still plenty you can pack in one day if you don’t have much time. So, hit the ground running with our one-day itinerary to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Fall River Visitor Center
Start off your day by visiting the Fall River Visitor Center. Here you can get all your information about where to go, what to see, directions, and answer any questions you might have. It is also a great spot to learn a bit more about the park. Kids will enjoy the full-size wildlife displays and educational kiosks explaining the history of the park. Plus, take in the views of McGregor and Deer Mountains, with Fall River below from the covered walkway.
Scenic drive
Trail Ridge Road at sunset.
One of the easiest ways to cover a lot of ground in one day is with a scenic drive through the park. Trail Ridge Road is by far the most popular scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park, connecting to Fall River Road.
As the longest scenic drive at 48 miles long, Trail Ridge Road ascends to 12,183 feet, crossing the Continental Divide, ending in Grand Lake. Stop here and have some lunch, enjoy some light hiking before hitting the road again back to Estes Park. It’s the best way to see most of the park all in one day. In the summer, the roads can be crowded so have some patience and enjoy the scenery!
Easy hikes
Alpine Visitor Center.
If you want to (and you should) get out and stretch your legs as you make your way along Trail Ridge Road, be sure to stop for an easy hike. Stop in at the Alpine Visitor Center where you will find the Alpine Ridge Trail. This short, but steep hike rests above treeline offering beautiful views of the alpine tundra and off-in-the-distance mountain peaks. Bear Lake and Emerald Lake are also great easy day hikes that provide incredible scenic views for not a lot of work.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Private hot tub at Mountain Masterpiece home.
End your one day itinerary to Rocky Mountain National Park with a stay in one of our cozy cabins or vacation homes with Rocky Mountain Resorts. Our various properties are just a few miles from the Fall River entrance to the park, providing easy access for your day of mountain adventures. Enjoy cabins, condos, and vacation homes that offer ease and comfort with cozy mountain furnishings. Choose from our selection of vacation homes and cabins, our Lazy R Cottages and Triple R Cottages, plus scenic cabins at Sunnyside Knoll. No matter what you are looking for, we’ve got a room for you!
