This day trip will take you up above the tree line 12,000 feet above sea level on a well maintained road. The drive has a few pit stops and many ADA accessible sites with breath taking photo opportunities. From most spots you can see a variety of the front range peaks from Wyoming to Colorado Springs. In each direction you can see over 100 miles. The deep sapphire color of the skies is even more rich than photos show on top of the mountain.
Wildlife often hangs around the road. visitors frequently see herds of elk grazing or crossing the roads. Pine martins, pikas, goats and other elusive native wildlife sometimes can be seen in abundance, if you are lucky.
Photo courtesy of Wendy Groc
The oxygen is thin here. Bring plenty of water to drink and snacks to eat. Wear versatile clothing because it can be hot in Estes and cold enough to snow on top of the mountain. The wind blows steadily and cool up on the continental divide. The sun rays are much stronger up here due to the thin atmosphere so sun screen, hats and sun glasses are essential. Mile high city residents may not mind the altitude as much, but still need to guard against altitude sickness. For most visitors, it is necessary to be mindful of the limitations and potential problems of altitude sickness.
To prevent altitude sickness drink a lot of water, rest often and refrain from too much exertion. One needs to be fit and acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a strenuous hike. The short trail at the top of the visitors center should be safe for most visitors in good health, however it will take time and a lot more effort than most people expect to climb up to the 12,000 feet sign. The view is worth it if you can make the climb. For visitors unable to make the climb, the viewing deck at the base of the visitors center still provides breath taking views that can be enjoyed by visitors in motor chairs or wheel chairs.
Be prepared for traffic as Trail Ridge Road is very popular. From Denver, Estes Park can take just under 2 hours to drive to. Driving Trail Ridge Road can easily take two to three hours depending on how often and how long you stop at the many scenic overlooks. There are many other sites in Rocky Mountain National Park, some that allow camping. Trail Ridge Road is a great way to make an easy day trip of this spectacular park. Once finished with the drive, you can treat your family to a delicious meal and shopping in Estes Park where there is something to please all tastes.
Visit Estes Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is open year round, 24 hours a day. Trail Ridge Road is open seasonally. Park entrance is good for 7 days and currently in 2015 is $20 per car. Pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and mopeds are $10 per person, not to exceed $20 per vehicle. An annual pass for Rocky Mountain National Park can be purchased for $40, providing unlimited entrance for 1 year from the date of purchase. The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation annual pass is honored here and priced at $80 per year. Additional passes and discount information can be found at the website here.
Rocky Mountain National Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2015. Upcoming free entrance days for the remainder of 2015 are as follows.
August 25: National Park Service's Birthday
September 26: National Public Lands Day
November 11: Veterans Day
All photos taken by Stephenie Barrett unless noted otherwise.
