rocky mountains tour

THE 10 BEST Rocky Mountain National Park Tours & Excursions

Rocky mountain national park tours.

• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Photography Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder

2. Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver Winter and Spring

3. Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

4. Private and Personalized Three Hour Morning Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

5. Winter / Spring Private Rocky Mountain National Park Guided Tour

6. Private Three Hour Afternoon Custom Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

7. Top of the World Photo Tour in the Rocky Mountain National Park

8. Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver

9. Sunset Photo Tour in the Rocky Mountain National Park

10. Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver

11. The Premier Wildlife Tours in Rocky Mountain National Park

12. Rocky Mountain National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

13. Private Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

14. Summer Private Rocky Mountain National Park Driving Tour

15. Women's Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park for Beginners

16. Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park

17. Estes Park Guided EBike Tour Explore a Mountain Town by Ebike

18. Rocky Mountain Private Day Tour & Hike from Estes Park

19. 4 Hour Private Guided Driving or Hiking Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park

20. Sunrise Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

21. Fall Private Elk Rut Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

22. Private Hiking Tour to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

23. Private Birding Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

24. 4 or 6 Hour Private Geology Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park

25. Private Day Tour From Denver to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

26. Sunrise photo hike to Dream and Emerald Lakes

27. Sunset and Night Photography Tour on Trail Ridge Road

28. Rocky Mountain National Park Private Driving/Hiking Tour 6 hrs

29. Private Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver

30. Women's Hike to Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

What travelers are saying.

• Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder
• Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver Winter and Spring
• Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver
• Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver
• Private and Personalized Three Hour Morning Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

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Live the Adventure!

ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Experience the open wilderness of the canadian rockies on an unforgettable adventure, explore the majestic canadian rocky mountains.

From Vancouver or Calgary, let us guide you through the Canadian wilderness to witness the rugged Rocky Mountains.

Begin an amazing adventure starting from Vancouver, and guided by experienced tour leaders. They’ll take you deep into the stunning Canadian wilderness, showing you the incredible beauty of the world-renowned Rocky Mountains.

Prepare for a comfortable and enriching adventure, ranging from immersive 4-day excursions to expansive 10+ day journe ys. Explore the famous sights of Banff National Park , including the breathtaking Lake Louise , where i ts turquoise waters reflect the beauty of the mountains nearby. 

Our itineraries also include a visit to the amazing Athabasca Glacier , taking a trip along the Columbia Icefields Parkway , one of the top 5 most scenic routes in the world. Soak in the stunning views of the Canadian Rockies, and explore the wilderness of Jasper National Park .

When do you envision embarking on this journey of a lifetime? Our tours to the Canadian Rockies are available year-round, as each season has its own unique charm and allure. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or to enjoy nature’s beauty, our Rocky Mountain tours guarantee an unforgettable time.

COASTAL BC INSIDE PASSAGE & ROCKIES

WESTERN CANADA ICONIC SITES

ROCKIES & WATERTON HIDDEN GEMS

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

ROCKIES SUMMER PREMIUM

ROCKIES SUMMER CLASSIC

ROCKIES WINTER PREMIUM

ROCKIES CHRISTMAS PREMIUM

Combo tours.

For those looking for a comprehensive Western Canada tour experience, Discover Canada Tours offers combo packages to explore the Rocky Mountains, Vancouver Island , and more in an intimate, longer-duration adventure.

ROCKIES & PACIFIC RIM PREMIUM

WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

Learn more about our destinations or contact us to book a private rocky mountain tour, past adventurers.

Excellent tour. Accommodations, meals, vehicle met and many times exceeded expectations. Each day offered new adventures, sites, options. Itinerary was perfect with driver/guide Kara being professional, cheerful, thoughtful and adaptable. I highly recommend Discover Canada and wish they did tours in the east as well. Great value for money. The support from Jennifer at head office to reconfigure end of trip helpful as well. Thanks for memorable holiday in the west.

My mom and I, along with her friends did the full day sightseeing tour to Vancouver island with a visit to the Butchart Gardens. We had an absolutely fantastic experience and I would highly recommend if you want to see the island and gardens as the travel is all planned out and you get to sit back and enjoy everything!

Discover Canada also provides very good pricing for everything you get and our tour guide Joe was fantastic and very kind! He was very knowledgeable and made everyone feel comfortable and answered random questions everyone had throughout the day.

Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Value

I took the Whistler sightseeing tour with Joe as our guide, it was really great! Joe was very friendly and helpful, informative and knowledgeable about BC and its history; he told us interesting tidbits and stories about the province and Whistler/Blackcomb. I enjoyed being able to do my own thing on the tour, Whistler was beautiful! Thanks again to Joe and Discover Canada Tours!

¿Por Qué Los Lagos De Las Rocosas Canadienses Son Tan Azules Y Cristalinos?

Explore the Best of British Columbia: Top Places to Visit in the Province

What makes the canadian rockies’ lakes so blue and unique.

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Canadian Rockies Tours & Vacations

‘There’s no way that’s not Photoshopped’...

This is what your friends will say when you show them your Canadian Rockies travel pics. This mighty mountain range is a (huge) segment of the Rocky Mountains which spans 3000 miles from British Columbia to New Mexico . It’s home to four national parks – Banff, Jasper, Kootenay and Yoho – and some of North America ’s most breathtaking scenery. Think impossibly blue lakes, sprawling glaciers and ice fields, and ink-blank skies occasionally graced with the Northern Lights . If you like the sound of trekking in the shadows of snow-dusted peaks, standing in the mist of some of Canada ’s tallest waterfalls or canoeing to a secluded beach to camp under the stars, then a Canadian Rockies trip has your name all over it.

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Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

Canadian Rockies travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to the Canadian Rockies

There are a few ways you can get to the Canadian Rockies depending on where you're travelling from.

The easiest (and quickest) way is to fly to Calgary, about an hour and a half from Banff National Park. (Most of our Rockies trips begin in Calgary or Vancouver, anyway). You can then hire a car at the airport or jump on a shuttle bus to Banff.

You could also fly to Edmonton, which is about a four hour drive away from Banff and Jasper.

How do I get around the Canadian Rockies?

Covering almost 77,000 square miles across Alberta and British Columbia, the best way to get around the Canadian Rockies is to join a tour or drive.

If you've flown into Calgary (the closest airport to Banff National Park), you can hire a vehicle from several car rental companies and continue your journey to the Rockies.

Without a car, you may struggle to travel around the region's national parks.

When is the best time to visit the Canadian Rockies?

The best time to visit the Canadian Rockies depends on the activities you want to do. Summer is for kayaking, swimming, hiking and camping, while winter calls for ice skating, dog sledding and skiing down Canada's best slopes. Winter also offers a chance to see the Northern Lights.

The summer (June through August) is the peak season in the Rockies thanks to the milder weather, which also means higher accommodation prices and more people on the trails. Try going in the 'shoulder' months of April, May, September or October for a balance of good weather and smaller crowds.

What do I pack for a trip to the Canadian Rockies?

Packing for a trip to the Canadian Rockies is similar to packing for a trip anywhere. What you pack largely depends on the time of year you're travelling.

If you're going in winter, pack appropriate weather clothing such as gloves, beanies, waterproof jackets, long pants etc.

If you're travelling in summer, pack sunscreen, a sunhat, t-shirts, dresses, and shorts.

You should also pack the essentials: a camera, a reusable drink bottle, and a backpack/day bag.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

All summer-only tours are open on the calendar. Book your summer adventure now!

Rocky Mountain National Park Sightseeing Tour

Our most popular tour - see all RMNP has to offer on this comfortable, thrilling ride

Climb from the streets of the "Mile High City" to Rocky Mountain National Park, on a day trip that showcases the rugged beauty of Colorado's mountains. Weave through small, historic towns and drive over alpine passes, as you scan the horizon for mountain wildlife like elk, black bears, or moose.

• Chance to spot local wildlife such as moose, elk, deer & eagles
• We take care of the day for you, so you can relax and enjoy the views
• Ample time at each stop to explore
• Comfortable upscale transportation

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Jed was very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and history of each town we visited and the trails we hiked. Jed was also very accommodatiive to everyone's needs.

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Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

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• Black Hills & Rocky Mountains National Park Tour

Rocky Mountains & Black Hills National Parks Tour

• Dates & Prices

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare

This program is currently sold out but new dates are coming soon! Call 888-860-1969 for more details.

Rocky Mountains Vacation Details

Be captivated by America’s most beautiful western landscapes as you discover historic sites, visit uniquely charming towns, and take in endless vistas on a Rocky Mountains tour. Don’t miss this journey through the (formerly) Wild, Wild West and three breathtaking national parks . Jackson Hole, Wyoming is both quaint and upscale. This ultimate cowboy town is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains and dense wilderness; but it also happens to house fine art galleries and excellent dining and shopping. Next door to Jackson Hole, yet a world away, is Grand Teton National Park , whose tallest peak, Grand Teton, rises more than 7,000 feet into the clean air. Yellowstone National Park, our nation’s first national park, is one of its most majestic. See pristine nature in Yellowstone, including the legendary Old Faithful. The geyser’s 20 daily eruptions earned it the nickname “Eternity’s Timepiece.” The Black Hills of South Dakota are home to the frontier town of Deadwood, where countless infamous characters made and lost their fortunes. The massive stone carvings of the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore National Monument must be seen to be believed. Stop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, America’s “Rodeo and Railroad Capital.” Look at scenic mountains, impossibly clear lakes, and an abundance of wildlife at Rocky Mountains National Park . Natural beauty and frontier history make this tour a can’t-miss!

Tour Includes

• Salt Lake City
• Jackson Hole
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Crazy Horse Memorial
• Mount Rushmore
• Fort Laramie
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 7 Breakfasts
• A professionally trained local tour director who is knowledgeable of the area and will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.
• To and from your hotel room throughout your tour for one piece of checked baggage per person.

Activity Level

Tour Highlights

• Explore the frontier territory of the Oregon Trail at Fort Laramie
• Take in the fantastic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park
• Marvel at the stone carvings of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial
• Visit charming mountain towns and discover the spirit of the Wild West
• Learn about Buffalo Bill and the history of the Prairie Indian tribes
• Witness glorious geysers and mountain ranges in Yellowstone National Park
• Enjoy spectacular views on a scenic drive through majestic Grand Teton National Park

Please visit our Travel Safe page for our most up to date Health and Safety information

Please follow the steps below to price your vacation with YMT Vacations. When you complete all the steps, click “Reserve” next to the date on which you would like to travel.

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• Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability

Don't see what you are looking for? Check out our general FAQ page here .

If I want to change my date of travel, for any reason, can I? Are there any fees for changing?

You have the ability to move your booking to another date or destination. We'll waive all land or cruise penalties and transfer you to the new vacation (airlines impose different change policies and penalties). See our Peace of Mind Program for more details.

What is YMT Vacations doing to address COVID-19 health and safety concerns while on tour?

A worry-free experience for our guests is very important to us. With guest's help and the implementation of a few changes and new protocols such as increased sanitization, responsible social distancing, and enhanced tour director training, you can continue to enjoy peace-of-mind while traveling. For more information on our new safety protocols, please see our Travel Safe Program .

Do I need a passport or visa?

Guests do not need a passport or visa for this tour. Starting October 1, 2021, guests are required to have a REAL ID-compliant identification which includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, US passports, US passport cards, US military IDs, and federally recognized tribal-issues photo IDs. A full list can be found here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification Before this date, any government-issued ID, including any state driver's license and any federal ID, will suffice.

What kind of currency will I need on this tour?

You will need U.S. dollars.

Will I need an adapter or converter for my electronics on this tour?

No, guests will not need to bring adapters or converters as the U.S. use standard 110V plugs.

You might also like:

Autumn Leaves Tour

Autumn leaves vacation details.

Traverse the historic northeast during the peak of the fall foliage season. The vibrant oranges, yellows, and deep reds of the changing leaves are the stars of the show during this unforgettable fall foliage tour. Start your trip with a city tour of the Big Apple’s major sights. Your scenic autumnal circuit begins when you head northward to see the colors in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Your trip includes stops at key highlights along the way including one of the famous Newport Mansions , the sandy beaches of Cape Cod and the historic landmarks of Boston. Travel along the New England coast to Maine , full of natural splendor and charm. Enjoy a drive along Kancamagus Highway, a national scenic byway of covered bridges and waterfalls. Witness the vibrant colors within Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge, and Lake Placid. Conclude your day in Vermont’s Green Mountains. After crossing into Canada, true vacation highlights are a cruise through the heart of 1,000 Islands, and experiencing the power of the breathtaking Niagara Falls. The trip ends in Toronto where you will see towering skyscrapers, a bustling harbor and more on a scenic city tour. The rainbow of Autumn colors you see on this tour will stay with you forever.

Best of Hawaii Four-Island Tour

Hawaii vacation package details.

Enjoy our always popular 4 island Hawaii vacation package. It’s packed with fun, and you’ll enjoy the friendly, knowledgeable guidance of local Tour Director whose years of experience make them the best guides in all of Hawaii! Start in Oahu with three days of fun and relaxation. There is plenty of time to unwind on your own in between memorable activities like the Pearl Harbor Tour, where you will learn about the day that would live in infamy. Poignant and powerful, take the site in and pay your respects before visiting the National Cemetery of the Pacific. Continue to the Big Island where you will come to appreciate all the gifts the rich soil and tropical environment provide. Explore Volcanoes National Park and stroll along a black sand beach. Next, take a quick flight to Kauai, nicknamed the "Garden Isle" for its daily rainbows and vibrantly green rainforests. Visit the spectacular Opaekaa Falls, and take a blissful riverboat cruise on the Wailua River down to the tropical Fern Grotto. Your tour concludes on Maui, Hawaii’s second largest island. Take a sightseeing tour with stops in Iao Valley and Lahaina, the enjoy this golfer’s paradise at your leisure, ending with a scrumptious Hawaiian Farewell Breakfast.

Heart of Texas & New Orleans

Vacation package details.

Experience the charm of New Orleans and the Lone Star State on this incredible southern state tour up the Gulf Coast from Louisiana to the heart of Texas. Enjoy the must-see history, culture, sights, and experiences of this colorful region. Let the good times roll in New Orleans , whose delicious cuisine is best enjoyed in the gorgeous garden setting of the Court of the Two Sisters. Mardi Gras, jazz, and creole food are quintessential parts of the “Big Easy” experience. Is everything bigger in Texas? The Lone Star State certainly gives you reason to think so. Houston is known as the Space City, and its expansive Johnson Space Center will show you why. If you remember the Alamo, you know all about San Antonio. Discover both, and maybe try in some of San Antonio’s renowned Tex-Mex food. Austin is known for its quirky culture and live music scene. While there you’ll also have the chance to explore the LBJ Presidential Library. Then your Dallas city tour includes a visit to the Dealey Plaza Museum, overlooking the place where President Kennedy was shot, it provides fascinating insight into the tragedy. You can’t leave Texas without seeing a ranch, and Southfork Ranch in Dallas is the most famous in the world! The real-life location of the Ewing Mansion and ranch from the TV show Dallas is as fabulous and elaborate as you could dream of. On this guided tour you’ll enjoy the must-see history, culture, sights, and experiences of this colorful region.

RMDN-LND23 - Inventory

• 143 View All Tours
• 8 Africa Tours
• 8 Asia Tours
• 6 Australia Tours
• 85 Europe Tours
• 39 North America Tours
• 3 South America Tours

Our Destinations

• Middle East
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Tour Styles

Enjoy a refined take on the art of group travel.

Experience true adventures on these Collette small group tours.

Set out on inspiring journey on these faith-based travel experiences.

Explore the world's most beautiful waterways.

Come to know your destination during a single-hotel stay.

Why Guided Travel

Sit back, relax, and let us handle all the details. You won't miss a thing.

Enhance your tour with this easy to use mobile companion.

Combine two tours into one grand adventure.

Making the travel experience a force for good.

No worries, we're with you every step of the way.

Going guided gets you more for your money.

Find travel tips, travel advice, and answers to some of the most commonly asked travel questions here.

Meet the Tour Managers that enhance your travel experience at every turn.

Travel Planning

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Current travel requirements by country including entry and exit information.

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Canadian Rockies From $6,899 $6,209 pp* Featuring Rocky Mountaineer

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date below for more details.

• Exploration

Set out on an inspiring journey on these faith-based travel experiences.

Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Canadian Rockies featuring Rocky Mountaineer

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Enhance your trip, optional excursions.

Add some more spice to your tour with this optional excursions.

Pre and Post Night Stays

Enjoy arriving early or checking out late with our Pre and Post night stays.

Tour Extensions

Extension style.

The extension style for this tour:

Independent

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

Traveler Reviews

From $6,209 pp *

8 Days • 12-13 Meals

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Everyone should take this tour!

A trip everyone should do, terrific trip. everything well organized, great trip. enjoyed from beginning to end., very well planned, awesome traveling experience with collette.

Great rail trip in the Canadian Rockies

Great trip overall.

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IDENTIFICATION Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

16 Guest Small Group & Private Adventures

America's Rocky Mountain Signature Tour

8 Days Air travel time: 8 Days, 7 Nights Land Journey Begin in Denver, then Estes Park and gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Vail & the Rockies, Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods

Journey's America's Rocky Mountain Tour is a perfect match for exploring America.

Explore America's Rocky Mountains

It's a Journey about Inspiration... Majestic Mountains inspire you just like they did Katharine Lee Bates... America the Beautiful was inspired by a 14,000 American Peak... Rocky takes on new meaning in Colorado... Colorful Colorado awaits your heart!

Why you'll love this Journey through Colorado:

• Journey Tour Captain beginning-to-end
• 11 Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 4 Journey Dinners - all with Premium Beverages, Wine & Cocktails
• Luggage Portage throughout your Journey, WiFi
• Meet & Greet at Airport with Arrival and Departure Transfers Included
• 7 nights' accommodation at Hotels: 1 Night Denver, 2 Nights Estes Park, 2 Nights Vail, 2 Nights Colorado Springs
• Entrance Rocky Mountain National Park
• Comfy Transportation throughout the Journey
• Admission fees, taxes, and gratutities excluding the Journey Tour Captain

THIS IS WHY WE SUGGEST JOURNEY FOR YOUR VACATION:

• We Walk the amazing cities and mountain villages
• Expertly Guided: Journey Tour Captain beginning-to-end
• Expert easy-to-understand Local Guides
• Dining: 14 Meals: 9 Breakfast, 5 Dinners
• European Cuisine with Premium Wine & Cocktails
• Meet & Greet at Airport with Arrival Transfer
• 10 nights' accommodation at hand-picked Hotels
• 'Master of Your Day' with our Exclusive Premium Sightseeing
• On Tour Transportation: Comfy micro-coach throughout the itinerary
• Customary gratuities excluding the Tour Captain

Itinerary at a Glance

Journey's hotels are perfectly positioned through the itinerary.

Is this Trip for Me?

Our America's Rocky Mountains Tour is designed for the Journey guest who enjoys discovering the beautiful mountains and landscapes of Colorado in comfort and luxury.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: your rocky mountain journey begins  .

Make your arrival to Denver, Colorado. Upon arrival, meet our representative for our included Meet-and-Greet and Arrival Transfer to our hotel in beautiful downtown Denver. Once arrived, you may check-in to your room (rooms are typically ready after 2pm) and freshen up before you meet your Journey Tour Director for a very special welcome to Colorado.

Your Journey Tour Director will select a variety of appetizers, featuring regional cuisine, and will select your wine for the evening (or if you prefer alcohol-free beverages we've got great offerings!). Then you will be presented with the restaurant's primary menu. It's an intentionally relaxed evening of delight so you can savor the experience. Welcome to Colorado!

Deluxe:  Hotel Teatro or Similar Classic:  Holiday Inn Express or Similar

BACK TO TOP

DAY 2: DENVER EXPLORER - TO ESTES PARK  

We make our way to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountaion National Park. Estes Park was bestowed on the valley by William Byers, founding editor of the Rocky Mountain News, in honor of its first permanent Anglo residents, Kentuckian Joel Estes and his wife, Patsy. Byers, on his way to a failed attempt to climb Longs Peak in 1864, stayed with the Estes family and paid his hosts $2.20 for food and lodging. Writing of the experience for the News, Byers predicted that “eventually this park will become a favorite pleasure resort." He was correct in his prediction!

We arrive our hotel, check-in and freshen up before meeting the Tour Director for a special welcome.

Your Journey Tour Director will host a special dinner tonight.

Deluxe:  The Stanley Hotel or Similar Classic:  Discovery Lodge or Similar

DAY 3: ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Enjoy breakfast in the fresh mountain air and then we're off to explore The Rocky.

We return to our hotel for an evening at leisure. Join the Tour Director tonight for an optional dinner or explore Estes Park on your own.

DAY 4: INTO THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS  

Today we continue our exploration of the Rockies as we make our way to beautiful Vail, Colorado. Vail is a small town at the base of Vail Mountain, home of the massive Vail Ski Resort. Set within White River National Forest, the town is a gateway for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

Deluxe:  The Sebastian Hotel or Similar Classic:  Evergreen Lodge or Similar

DAY 5: ROCKY MOUNTAINS AT LEISURE  

Today enjoy a complete day at leisure to soak up the Mountains. Perhaps it's a spa treatment, a downhill mountain bike adventure or just enjoy the shops in Vail, whatever your preference it's the perfect day!

Tonight, join the Tour Director for an optional dinner or explore at your leisure.

DAY 6: PIKE'S PEAK AND GARDEN OF THE GODS  

A Peak By Any Other Name The 14,115-foot summit rises over the plains with a majesty all its own. Originally called "Sun Mountain," by the Ute people, it was renamed by the Arapaho people to "the Long Mountain." Spanish explorers in the 1700s renamed it to Montana del Sol, or Mountain of the Sun which was borrowed from the local people at that time. They originally renamed it El Capitan or The Captain or Leader.

In 1806, US explorer Zebulon Pike traveled to Colorado as part of his expedition into the newly purchased Louisiana Territory. He set sights on the peak soon after entering the Colorado area, and quickly tried (and failed) to climb it. In his journal entries, he called the mountain both “the Grand Peak” and simply “Highest Peak.” The latter name became popular with Anglo-American explorers, trappers, and settlers. Many of them began to refer to it as “Pike’s Highest Peak.” Some chose instead to call it by the less popular name “James Peak” in honor of Edwin James, a botanist who was the first person known to reach its summit, while others maintained the Spanish name El Capitán.

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DAY 7: COLORADO SPRINGS AT LEISURE

Enjoy a day at leisure on your last day in Colorado —  we have many sightseeing options or just enjoy a shop around town.

It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends! Until our next Journey — Good Travels!

Journey is Different: After our special event your Journey Tour Director will invite you to join them to an optional dinner, or explore at your leisure.

DAY 8:  DEPARTURE DAY

The transfer to Denver International Airport is included this morning.

Are you ready for a No Obligation Trip Proposal or Make Your Reservation Request? Click Here  to  Begin

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7 Rocky Mountain National Park Tours that Will Leave You Speechless

• January 6, 2024
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by foxintheforest

Rocky Mountain National Park is on most people’s Colorado bucket list for good reason! Here you’ll find the stunning scenery of mountain peaks, alpine lakes, rushing waterfalls, and lovely meadows that Colorado is known for.

Focus on the gorgeous landscape without worrying about logistics by taking one of the amazing Rocky Mountain National Park tours.

If you’re looking for recommendations for the best Rocky Mountain National Park tours from a local insider, I’ve got you covered. I’ve lived in Colorado for nearly 15 years now and know RMNP like the back of my hand, so I’ve got all the expert info for you.

A quick note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something, I get a small kickback at no added cost to you (you get honest tour recs and I get to keep this website going). You can read more about my affiliate policy here .

My pick 🏆 for one of the best Rocky Mountain National Park tours is this Rocky Mountain NP Glass-Top Guided Morning Tour . 😊 It’s well-reviewed, perfect if you’re short on time ⏰, offers stunning views, and even includes hot cocoa/snacks!

About this Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park Tours

Inside this local guide to Rocky Mountain National Park tours, you’ll find expert advice about:

• When to visit Rocky Mountain National Park
• What you need to know about reservations for Rocky Mountain National Park
• How to tour Rocky Mountain National Park
• The best Rocky Mountain National Park tours, sorted by start location
• Additional resources for exploring Colorado

When to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

You can visit Rocky Mountain National Park all year-round, but different seasons have different considerations to keep in mind.

Generally, late June to mid-October is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park.

Local Tip: This is when Trail Ridge Road is open (generally) and you can access all areas of the park.

In the summer and early fall, the park will be extremely crowded, and you will have to make a timed entry reservation (see below), but you will also have lovely weather and could see wildflowers in bloom or beautiful fall foliage.

In the winter, the park is especially gorgeous in the snow, and snowshoeing in RMNP is a fantastic experience.

But avalanche conditions may exist on hikes, and Trail Ridge Road is closed, so you won’t be able to drive from the east to west side of the park.

Do You Need a Reservation for Rocky Mountain National Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park is the most popular of the Colorado National Parks , so a timed entry system has been implemented during peak season.

From late May to mid-October, reservations are required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. You can find out more details about timed entry and how to make reservations on the RMNP site here.

The timed entry system is a little tricky – if it sounds really overwhelming, then selecting a tour that handles this part of the planning for you is the way to go!

Just be sure to check what’s included in your tour. (Psst: we’ve added that info below, but be sure to double-check with the tour provider, since details can change.)

What is the Best Way to Tour Rocky Mountain National Park

You can definitely explore Rocky Mountain National Park on your own, but the best Rocky Mountain National Park tours are guided by local experts who can make sure you visit all the best spots in the park.

A private tour lets you customize your itinerary if you have specific places you want to see.

One of the biggest advantages of a tour is the increased chances to see wildlife. Tour guides generally know where the bigger herds of elk are and they have a trained eye to spot wild animals.

Of course, there are no guarantees, but if you’re looking for a wildlife expert, then a tour is a great option.

The Best Rocky Mountain National Park Tours

These Rocky Mountain National Park tours offer a variety of options to fit your schedule and budget, but they all provide incredible views of the gorgeous landscape at several different locations and lookouts throughout Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Some Rocky Mountain National Park tours depart from Denver, and others meet in Estes Park, so this list is divided by starting location.

Rocky Mountain National Park Tours – From Denver

1. rocky mountains jeep tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (7 Reviews) Price: $500 per group of four Duration: 9 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Hotel pick up available Operator: Birding Man Adventures Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Make the most of visiting RMNP with this private jeep tour of Rocky Mountain National Park .

After getting picked up at your hotel and driving from Denver to RMNP , you’ll spend a full day immersed in the beauty of one of the prettiest places in Colorado .

The jeep tour will take you up Old Fall River Road, where you will get out to explore the alpine tundra.

“My family and I had a wonderful time seeing Rocky Mountain National Park with Ryan! He’s extremely knowledgable about the ecosystems and wildlife in the park. Even my six year old daughter was able to gain an appreciation for how unique the area is! We visited the park in March during somewhat snowy conditions, but Ryan was able to improvise for weather (and a six year old who couldn’t hike in deep snow). He also made a tasty lunch for us! Overall, the highlight of seeing the park with Ryan is how much you learn along the way. He’s incredibly informative and able to explain complex concepts in an easy to understand way. We highly recommend Ryan and Birding Man Adventures!” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

Your tour guide is a naturalist, so you’ll learn all about the flora and fauna you’ll find in the park as you keep an eye out for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and a variety of birds.

Take a break for a picnic lunch with a majestic mountain backdrop before heading back to Denver.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (29 Reviews) Price: $148.38 per person Duration : 9.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Pick up included Operator: Colorado Sightseer Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re visiting Colorado , taking one of the Rocky Mountain National Park tours from Denver will definitely be a highlight of your trip.

After getting picked up in Denver (or Boulder or Estes Park), you’ll drive into the park and up Trail Ridge Road, which features many scenic viewpoints.

You’ll stop for a stunning panoramic vista at Many Parks Curve, then head to Horseshoe Park to check out the alluvial fan.

“The best part of the tour was the tour guide! Phil was very knowledgeable about everything from the trees in the park to the history of the towns that we passed through. While it would have been nice to see some of the wild animals, I feel like too much time is spent stopping to look for them without really finding any. I would have liked spending more time in Estes Park instead.” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

Here you can take some short trails for some of the top hikes in Colorado to see alpine lakes, waterfalls, and meadows.

Enjoy a casual picnic lunch with a view before you make your way to the town of Estes Park .

You’ll have time to explore this mountain town for a bit, including a visit to the Stanley Hotel of “The Shining” fame.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (28 Reviews) Price: $138.20 per person Duration: 8 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO Operator: Colorado Sightseer Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Some Estes Park jeep tours are seasonal, but if you’re looking for winter activities in RMNP , this Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter tour is the perfect way to see snow-capped mountains and a glacial lake.

Meet in Denver before driving up north to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Explore the trails at Moraine Park while keeping an eye out for elk, then make your way to Many Parks Curve for breathtaking views of mountain peaks.

“Such a pleasant trip, you never spend too much time in the van, stops are well thought and it dis not feel rushed. A good combination of outdoors and roadtrip time. Very convenient for solo travellers who don’t want to go through the hassle of renting a car and figuring things on your own. Captain Kurt is an authentic colorado renaissance man. He knows his geography, history, fauna and flora of the region, great recommendations of stuff to do in Denver and a great attitude. Love it.” Stephane ( read more reviews now )

After checking out the alluvial fan in Horseshoe Park, you’ll head to downtown Estes Park where you can grab lunch before wandering around town or doing some short hikes in Estes .

Stop at the historic Stanley Hotel for a memorable final stop on your tour.

Rocky Mountain National Park Tours – From Estes Park

4. rocky mountain national park glass-top guided morning tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (60 Reviews) Price: $168 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 165 Virginia Dr Unit 17 Operator: Purple Mountain Tour Co. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Start your morning off right with a Rocky Mountain National Park tour in a special glass-top van to give you the best views of the incredible landscape.

While this tour is awesome any time of year, it’s one of the especially cool things to do in RMNP in summer when the glass roof can be opened up to feel the mountain breeze while you soak in the views.

“This was an exceptional tour! Our guide was knowledgeable about Rocky Mountain National Park. The views were spectacular, and the van was very comfortable. Hot chocolate and snacks included! We thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend the tour to everyone.” Stephanie ( read more reviews now )

You’ll travel up Old Fall River Road to get above treeline where you’ll stop at the Alpine Visitor Center, sitting at 11,796 feet.

This is the highest visitor center in any National Park, and you’ll have time to grab some food, get a souvenir, and immerse yourself in the views of the tundra before you head back down Trail Ridge Road.

During the tour, you’ll also have a chance to take a short excursion to a waterfall or other beautiful destination.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park Private Driving/Hiking Tour (6 hrs)

⭐️ Rating: 5.05/5.0 (6 Reviews) Price: $199.00 per person Duration: 6 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Varies Operator: Full Potential Wilderness Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Enjoy one of the best jeep tours from Estes Park with this customizable private guided tour of Rocky Mountain National Park .

With 6 hours to explore the park, you can do a driving tour or explore some of the best RMNP hikes like Emerald Lake or Lake Haiyaha . You’ll also get professional photos taken to document your adventure.

“Enjoyed learning so much about the park. The guide, Ranger Rod was very knowledgeable and shared some of what he knew. my favorite new thing were the tansy asters😀 would recommend the tour.” Sharon ( read more reviews now )

What you do on this tour is completely up to you, and the tour itinerary can be designed to be inclusive and accessible for most travelers.

This is the Rocky Mountain National Park tour for you if you want to make it your own personalized adventure!

6. Private Driving or Hiking Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park (4 hrs)

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (22 Reviews) Price: $149 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Pick up available Operator: Full Potential Wilderness Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you have limited time, take a shorter private guided tour to explore the best of Rocky Mountain National Park.

You can still fit a lot into 4 hours, like a drive to some scenic overlooks on Trail Ridge Road, including the gorgeous Rainbow Curve .

Or you could choose to hike a short but stunning trail like the one to iconic Dream Lake.

“Great guide. very friendly and knowledgeable took us to great viewing areas great day and made us want to go back and visit the park again.” Kristen ( read more reviews now )

This tour is completely customizable to give you a Rocky Mountain National Park bucket list experience. Most travelers can participate since the tour can be designed to be inclusive for all ability levels.

Rocky Mountain National Park Self-Guided Tour

7. rocky mountain national park self-driving audio tour.

⭐️ Rating: 4.0/5.0 (42 Reviews) Price: $14.99 per person Duration: 2-4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Varies Operator: Travel with Action Details: Read more on Viator now!

If you can’t book an actual guided tour of Rocky Mountain National Park, you can still get expert info to explore the park on your own with this Rocky Mountain National Park Self-Driving Tour .

You simply download an app on your phone (which works even if you’re out of cell service), and then follow the GPS to the top sights in RMNP.

“Very helpful. There is so much to see and do in Colorado! This was very helpful😎. This was the first road trip with just my daughter and I. It was nice being able to have background info while driving thru the park.” Penny ( read more reviews now )

While you drive, you can listen to info about the park and each point of interest that you visit.

This is a great way to spend one day in RMNP and check out the most popular destinations in the park, including hiking trails, RMNP lakes , mountain passes, and viewpoints.

Additional Colorado Travel Resources

Looking for more adventures in the mountains of Colorado? Check out these local guides:

• The Sky Pond Hike in Rocky Mountain is a Must-See
• The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
• Unique Things to Do in Colorado

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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• National Parks

This National Park Is Known for Its High Elevation — and Offers Stunning Hikes, Diverse Wildlife, and More

Here's everything you need to know before visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

• Planning Your Visit

How to Get There

• Best Time to Visit

Best Things to Do

• Places to Stay

Places to Eat

Matt Dirksen/Getty Images

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the country, with an elevation that spans from 7,600 feet above sea level to 14,259 feet (or almost three miles) above sea level. Beyond its towering elevation, the mountainous Continental Divide runs through the park, along with the highest continuous paved road in the United States (the Trail Ridge Road), which provides visitors with beautiful high-elevation drives. Those interested in exploring on foot will find over 350 miles of trails, many of which lead to untouched wilderness areas.

“Rocky Mountain National Park provides exceptional access to wild places for visitors to recreate and experience solitude and outstanding scenery,” explained Kyle Patterson, the management specialist and public affairs officer for Rocky Mountain National Park, in an interview with Travel + Leisure.

Meet the Expert

Kyle Patterson is the management specialist and public affairs officer for Rocky Mountain National Park.

Claire Molle is the communications manager of Visit Estes Park.

Planning Your Visit 

John Covert/Getty Images

Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but some areas may be closed seasonally or due to weather conditions. No matter when you visit, you’ll need to purchase a park pass. A single-day vehicle pass is $30, while a seven-day vehicle pass is $35.

The park is completely cashless, so you’ll need to buy your entrance pass online via Recreation.gov or by using a credit/debit card or digital payment at one of the park’s entrances. If you only have cash, you can purchase a park pass from the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Stores at three of the park’s visitor centers: Beaver Meadows, Fall River, or Kawuneeche. 

If you’re visiting during the park’s busy season, late May to mid-October, you’ll also need to arrange a timed-entry permit. There are two types of timed-entry permits: one that provides access to the entire park, and one that allows you to visit everything except the Bear Lake Road Corridor (the most heavily used portion of the park). Both can be reserved on Recreation.gov starting May 1, 2024 and cost only the $2 Recreation.gov processing fee. With a timed-entry permit, you can enter Rocky Mountain National Park within a two-hour  window of your entry time with no set departure time. For more, visit the park’s timed-entry information page .

There are four visitor centers in the park: Beaver Meadows, Fall River, Kawuneeche, and Alpine. Beaver Meadows and Fall River are located on the eastern side of the park near the city of Estes Park, Colorado, while Kawunechee is located on the western side of the park near Granby, Colorado. They remain open year-round. Alpine, which is on the northern side of the park and is the highest-elevation visitor center in the National Park System, closes in the winter.

During the busy season, you can also visit the Moraine Park Discovery Center near the eastern entrances.

arinahabich/Getty Images

If you’re staying in or flying into Denver, head west to Estes Park, Colorado, the base for the two eastern park entrances and visitor centers, Beaver Meadows and Fall River. If you’re coming to Rocky Mountain National Park from the western or southwestern part of the state, your closest entrance and visitor center will be Kawuneeche, which is near the town of Grand Lake , north of Granby, Colorado. 

There is no public transportation from nearby cities to the park, so you will need a car to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. From late May to mid-October, you can drive the park’s iconic Trail Ridge Road, which connects Grand Lake and Estes Park. 

Best Time to Visit 

epicurean/Getty Images

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is typically fall, when everything is still open but the summer crowds have dispersed. According to Claire Molle, the communications manager of Visit Estes Park , “Fall is a terrific time to visit Estes Park and RMNP, with gorgeous fall colors and the chance to witness the fascinating elk rut. Weather seems to also be terrific in September and early October.”

She notes that winter and spring are also fantastic times to visit, noting that even though certain parts of the park are closed (including Trail Ridge Road), “Winters in RMNP evoke serene tranquility, especially during snowshoeing excursions. You can find terrific trails to snowshoe in RMNP starting around late November through early May!” 

Patterson calls out the solitude of winter (and frozen waterfalls), and notes that while the summer wildflower season can be stunning, “Late May through mid-October is the busiest part of the year with high visitation.”

Mark C Stevens/Getty Images

Trail Ridge Road

This paved road connects the two main entrances of the park — Grand Lake and Estes Park — showcasing the visual wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park. The road offers sweeping Rocky Mountain views in all directions. Trail Ridge Road takes most people between four and eight hours, depending on how many viewpoints and trails you want to stop at.

Patterson notes that the route “is the highest continuous paved road in the United States with 11 miles above treeline.  There are a number of pull-offs and short trails to experience the magic of the alpine tundra and top-of-the-world, 360-degree views.”

Trail Ridge Road is normally open from Memorial Day to mid-October, weather permitting.

Sheep Lakes

Not far from the Fall River entrance is Sheep Lakes, an open area that offers a dramatic view of Horseshoe Park, which was carved by ancient glaciers. According to the Rocky Mountain National Park website, the “beautiful meadow is a great place to view wildlife. The area is named for the bighorn sheep that come down from the mountainside to lick mud for nutrients. Sheep Lakes also sees coyotes, ground squirrels, and elk.”

The parking lot at Sheep Lakes is open 24 hours a day, year-round, but it's best visited in the fall when the annual elk mating season takes place. The adjacent Sheep Lakes Information Station is closed in the winter and spring.

Holzwarth Historic Site

For a glimpse into the park’s human history, visit the Holzwarth Historic Site. The series of buildings provide a peek into what life looked like in the 1920s, when the Holzwarth family homesteaded on 160 acres high in the mountains. 

The grounds are open year-round, but entry into the historic buildings is only allowed in the summer (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day).

Best Hikes 

MargaretW/Getty Images

If you’re not much of a hiker but you want to stretch your legs and see the views, head to the Bear Lake Trailhead on the east side of the park. The route goes around the lake in a view-packed, half-mile journey. The route is wheelchair accessible, and offers stunning views of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide from the trail.

It’s worth noting that the trail can be very busy in the summer and that parking is limited. To be safe, park at the Park & Ride lot and hop on the free summer shuttle to the trailhead. 

Emerald Lake

The Emerald Lake hike also begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead, but tends to be a little quieter than the Bear Lake loop. (That said, the parking and shuttle advice above still applies.)

Molle says,”It's a great option for families or those who might not know how far they are wanting to hike because it will take you first to Nymph Lake, then to Dream Lake, and finally to Emerald Lake about two miles up. All three lakes are breathtaking, and the trail allows you to pick whichever lake you would like as your destination depending on how ambitious you are feeling.” 

For the more adventurous and experienced hiker, Patterson recommends hiking to Chasm Lake on the east side of the park. The lake sits at the base of Longs Peak, the park’s highest point and one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. The out-and-back trail to Chasm Lake is 8.4 miles and requires a steady climb through a subalpine forest and into the alpine tundra.

Coyote Valley

This easy, out-and-back trail is located on the west side of the park, near Grand Lake and Granby. The hike is one mile, roundtrip and is wheelchair accessible. The route runs along the Colorado River, which draws local wildlife, including elk and moose.

Cascade Falls

This hiking trail is also located on the quieter, western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The out-and-back trail is almost seven miles long and passes through open meadows, dense pine forest, and along the river, in addition to taking hikers to a beautiful cascade that tumbles onto pure granite rock. 

Sparty1711/Getty Images

Wildlife spotting is one of the main reasons people visit Rocky Mountain National Park, which is home to large wild animals, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and bears. The park is home to a large elk herd, numbering between 600 to 800 in the winter , and around 350 bighorn sheep. There is also a small population of moose and black bears.

According to the park’s website, “wildlife watching is rated the number-one activity by a vast majority of Rocky's three million annual visitors.”

One of the most interesting times to view the elk herd is in the fall, during the rut, or mating season. Sheeps Lake is a popular viewing spot, as is any place in the park where the meadow and forest meet. According to the national park’s website, “Elk spend much of their time at or above treeline during the summer, moving to lower elevations in the fall, winter, and spring.”

Bighorn Sheep

The best place to see bighorn sheep is at the aptly named Sheep Lakes from May to mid-August.

Moose are more commonly seen on the western side of the park along the Colorado River in the Kawuneeche Valley. They tend to frequent the willow thickets set along the river.

Black Bears

Black bears make a point to avoid humans , so they are rarely seen in the park. The sightings, while rare, take place in the summer once the bears have come out of hibernation. It’s worth noting that contrary to their name, black bears can also be dark brown, cinnamon-colored, or almost blonde.

Places to Stay 

Christian Harder

In addition to lots of backcountry, hike-to camping that requires a permit, Rocky Mountain National Park has five campgrounds with sites that can be reserved in advance and accessed by a car. 

Patterson notes that “They are very popular, and demand normally exceeds supply.” She also warns that Moraine Park Campground, which is listed below and is the park's largest campground, is currently closed. It will reopen for summer 2024, but the timing is unknown. 

All the campgrounds but Longs Peak Campground must be reserved in advance with a rolling six-month window.

Campgrounds

Aspenglen Campground: This campground has 52 RV and tent sites including 13 that are for tents only. There is no water and no RV dump station. This is the only campground open year-round.

Glacier Basin Campground: Glacier Basin has 150 sites, along with lots of amenities — including firewood for sale, potable water, a dump station, and helpful staff on site. It is only open from late May through mid-September, weather dependent.

Moraine Park Campground: This is the largest campground in the park with 244 campsites. The park website notes that it is “closed until early June 2024,” while Patterson said that the exact opening date is still unknown and might be later into the summer than planned. When the campground restoration project is complete, the large campground will have new walkways, parking areas, and amenities, including 15 additional wheelchair-accessible campsites, 90 new food storage boxes, and electrical hook-ups for around 60 campsites. The Moraine Park Campground also has potable water, an RV dump station, and staff on site.

Longs Peak Campground: This is a tent-only campground (no RVs allowed). It typically opens in July and closes in early September. It is also the only first-come, first-served campground in the park.

Timber Creek Campground: Timber Creek is the only campground on the quieter, western side of the park. This campground has 98 RV and tent sites, including 30 that are reserved for tents only. There is potable water, an RV dump station, and staff on site. Timber Creek is only open in the summer season.

Trailborn Rocky Mountains: The buzz around this new hotel is well founded. Trailborn Rocky Mountains , which opened in late 2023 in Estes Park, was specifically designed to serve national park visitors. The well-thought-out basecamp is clean and modern with just enough amenities to make it stand out — including on-site dining, pools, and an outdoor space with fire pits. 

“The Trailborn stands out as a modern and well-equipped motel-style lodging, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts,” said Molle.

Grand Lake Lodge: This property is located on the western side of the park in the town of Grand Lake. Most guests stay in the historic cabins, which have been updated with a contemporary look, but there are also four “Jupes,” or tents, with high ceilings and solar-power-generated electricity.

There are no dining options inside Rocky Mountain National Park, so you’ll need to plan ahead by packing a picnic or returning to town for lunch.

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern is one of the closest restaurants to the entrance to the national park. It is also much more than a restaurant — it’s a community hub with near-constant live music and delicious food.

Poppy's Pizza & Grill

This eatery is one of Molle’s favorites. It’s got an excellent riverfront location in Estes Park and has an outdoor patio where you can enjoy one of their specialty pies or sandwiches paired with a Colorado-brewed beer.

Claire's Restaurant and Bar

This spot in Estes Park is another of Molle’s top picks. Claire’s has a wide variety of dishes, including BBQ, fish, and burgers. The establishment opened in 1992 and continues to be a favorite — it helps that it has a lovely outdoor patio.

Rocky Mountains & Black Hills National Parks Tour

Be captivated by America’s most beautiful western landscapes as you discover historic sites, visit charming towns, and take in endless vistas on a Rocky Mountains tour. Don’t miss this journey through the (formerly) Wild, Wild West and three breathtaking national parks .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is both quaint and upscale. This ultimate cowboy town is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains and dense wilderness; but it also happens to house fine art galleries and excellent dining and shopping. Next door to Jackson Hole, yet a world away, is  Grand Teton National Park , whose tallest peak, Grand Teton, rises more than 7,000 feet into the clean air.

At Yellowstone National Park, our nation’s first national park, experience pristine nature and marvel at the legendary Old Faithful. The geyser’s 20 daily eruptions earned it the nickname “Eternity’s Timepiece.”

The Black Hills of South Dakota are home to the frontier town of Deadwood, where countless infamous characters made and lost their fortunes. The massive stone carvings of the Crazy Horse Memorial and  Mount Rushmore National Monument  must be seen to be believed.

Stop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, America’s “Rodeo and Railroad Capital.” Experience the Rocky Mountain scenic drive , look at the impossibly clear lakes, and an abundance of wildlife  at  Rocky Mountains National Park . Natural beauty and frontier history make this tour nforgettable!

• Explore the frontier territory of the Oregon Trail at Fort Laramie
• Take in the fantastic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park
• Marvel at the stone carvings of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial
• Visit charming mountain towns and discover the spirit of the Wild West
• Learn about Buffalo Bill and the history of the Prairie Indian tribes
• Witness glorious geysers and mountain ranges in Yellowstone National Park
• Enjoy spectacular views on a scenic drive through majestic Grand Teton National Park

Bison Safari Jeep tour

Journey into the Custer State Park on an open-air jeep.

Temple Square Tour & Dinner

Experience the tranquility of the beautiful Salt Lake City Temple Square.

Activity level

• Very Active

Tour Includes

Sightseeing

• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Fort Laramie
• Mount Rushmore
• Crazy Horse Memorial
• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Jackson Hole
• Salt Lake City

Hotel Accommodations

• Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 8 Breakfasts
• A professionally trained tour director who is knowledgeable about the area will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

• To and from your hotel room throughout your tour for one piece of checked baggage per person.

Denver, Colorado

Salt Lake City, Utah

Arrive in the Mile High City. Guests who booked flights with YMT will be met by a representative and transferred to their hotel. The evening is at your leisure.

Hyatt Place Downtown or similar

On our first morning together, we’ll enjoy a city tour of Denver, before traveling on to spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park. Here you’ll discover scenic mountains, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. Next, it’s on to Cheyenne, Wyoming, the rodeo capital of the Old West, which also became the epicenter of westward rail expansion. Enjoy a leisurely evening tonight and perhaps stop at the Cheyenne Depot Plaza and Museum. (B)

SureStay Plus by BW Cheyenne or similar

Your first stop en route to South Dakota will be the Fort Laramie Historic Site, along the Oregon Trail. Originally a private fur trading fort, the “grand old post” became the largest and best known military post on the Northern Plains. We’ll also visit The Mammoth Site, a museum and paleontological site, before we end the evening in Rapid City. (B)

Howard Johnson Rapid City or similar

Today begins with a wonderful scenic drive through the Black Hills. You’ll get to experience Mount Rushmore National Monument and Crazy Horse Memorial, and see incredible stone carvings in the rock formations of South Dakota. End the day with leisure time in Custer State Park, South Dakota’s first state park. It’s famous for bison herds, historic sites, and fishing lakes, as well as scenic drives, and more! (B)

Add-On : Bison Safari Jeep Tour

Immerse yourself in Wild West history; we’ll begin with a morning stop in the frontier town of Deadwood, South Dakota. This city at the heart of the Black Hills Gold Rush is where “Calamity Jane” once lived, and where “Wild Bill” Hickok played his last game of cards. Next, travel to Sheridan, Wyoming. History and dramatic mountain vistas meet modern comforts in a serene setting at this town. With an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains, you’ll see why Sheridan is known as the “heart of Ruby Valley.” Visit Devil’s Tower National Monument on the way to Sheridan. (B)

Best Western Sheridan Center or similar

This morning you’ll drive through Big Horn National Forest, before visiting the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. It’s a complex of five museums where you can learn more about the American icon “Buffalo Bill” Cody, as well as the art and history of the Plains Indian tribes. Explore this quaint Western town tonight on your own. (B)

Add-On: Chuckwagon Dinner & Show

Comfort Inn or similar

Early this morning, you’ll continue on to nearby Yellowstone, our country’s first national park. See spectacular geysers, lakes, and mountains during your visit, and have your camera ready for likely sightings of buffalo, elk, and moose, or perhaps gray wolves, and bears. Take in the tranquility of Hayden Valley and the vibrant colors of the geysers. Yellowstone is a feast for the eyes! (B)

Kelly Inn or similar

Today we pay a morning visit to Old Faithful, Yellowstone’s most famous geyser whose 20 daily eruptions attract many of the park’s 4 million annual visitors. Afterwards, we’ll continue south to Grand Teton National Park to enjoy a spectacular landscape rich with majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and wildlife. Make an overnight in Jackson Hole, one of the most quaint, yet upscale, mountain resort towns in the west. (B)

Add-On : 7-Mile Teton Views Scenic Float on Snake River

Antler Inn or similar

This morning, we’ll travel to Utah’s grand capital. This beautiful city played host to the 2002 Winter Olympics, and you can still enjoy many of the improvements designed to make the city welcoming. Salt Lake City has the hospitable feel of a friendly mountain town, and is full of stunning parks, wonderful restaurants, and opportunities to shop, enjoy art and music.

Add-On : Temple Square Tour & Dinner

Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown or similar

Welcome to Utah’s grand capital. This beautiful city played host to the 2002 winter Olympics, and you can still enjoy many of the improvements designed to make the city welcoming. Salt Lake City has the hospitable feel of a friendly mountain town, and is full of stunning parks, wonderful restaurants, and opportunities to shop, enjoy art, or take in live theatre and music Guests who booked their air with YMT will be met by a YMT representative and transferred to their hotel. The evening is at your leisure.

Add-On : Temple Square Dinner & Tour

Relax and take in the scenery from your motor coach as we make the drive to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Enjoy the evening at leisure in Jackson, one of the most quaint, yet upscale, mountain resort towns in the west. Home to three ski areas, Jackson is a cowboy town with beautiful mountain surroundings. The Town Square features an arch made of shed antlers from the nearby National Elk Refuge, and the National Museum of Wildlife Art features works by Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keefe. (B)

Elk Country Inn or similar

A spectacular landscape awaits as we continue to Grand Teton National Park this morning. Enjoy the majestic mountains, lakes, and wildlife! Then, continue to Yellowstone National Park and pay a visit to Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser whose 20 daily eruptions attract many of the park’s 4 million annual visitors.

This morning we take more time to drive through Yellowstone, our nation’s first national park. See spectacular geysers, lakes, and mountains during your time here! Have your camera ready for likely sightings of buffalo, elk, moose, gray wolves, or bears. Take in the tranquility of Hayden Valley and the vibrant colors of the geysers—Yellowstone is a feast for the eyes! Continue on to Cody, and explore this quaint Western town tonight on your own. (B)

Add-On : Chuckwagon Dinner & Show

Comfort Inn Cody or similar

Today we visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a complex of five museums where you can learn more about the American icon “Buffalo Bill” Cody, as well as the art and history of the Plains Indian tribes. Our drive then continues through Big Horn National Forest as we make our way to Sheridan, Wyoming. This charming town is where western history and dramatic mountain vistas meet modern comforts in a serene setting. Set against an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Bighorn Mountains, it’s no secret why Sheridan is known as the “heart of Ruby Valley.” (B)

Immerse yourself in Wild West history today with a stop in the frontier town of Deadwood, South Dakota. This city at the heart of the Black Hills Gold Rush is where Old West figures “Calamity Jane” once lived and where “Wild Bill” Hickok played his last game of cards. Continue on to Rapid City tonight and take the evening to relax before an exciting day tomorrow. (B)

Take a wonderful scenic drive through the Black Hills today! You’ll have opportunities for sightseeing at Mount Rushmore National Monument and Crazy Horse Memorial, incredible and iconic stone carvings in the rock formations of South Dakota. You’ll also have some leisure time in Custer State Park, South Dakota’s first state park, famous for its bison herds, historic sites, fishing lakes, scenic drives, and more! (B)

Your first stop today is a visit to The Mammoth Site, a museum and paleontological site. Continue along the Oregon Trail to the Fort Laramie Historic Site. Originally a private fur trading fort, the “grand old post” became the largest and best known military post on the Northern Plains. We arrive in Cheyenne, Wyoming and learn about the rodeo and railroad capital of the Old West. Enjoy a leisurely evening tonight—perhaps stop at the Cheyenne Depot Plaza and Museum. (B)

Discover scenic mountains, majestic alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife today as we travel through spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. (B)

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

Inquire Now

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare. Passport required.

Add airfare?

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.

Yes, triples are permitted (depending on availability) in 2 beds.

For tours that start in Denver, you should arrive no later than 4pm. For tours that commence from Salt Lake City, you should arrive no later than 1pm.

No, none are required.

You will visit locations that are at higher elevations (6,000-8,000 ft). The highest elevation you will visit is the Rocky Mountain National Park Alpine Visitor Center which is at 12,000 ft!

For tips on managing altitude sickness, please read our blog .

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Call us for pricing, and remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Here are the pricing guidelines for reference: $ – Less than $100 USD $$ – Between $100 and $200 USD $$$ – More than $200 USD

Take a comfortable seat in a roomy open-air jeep, keep your camera at the ready, and prepare to be amazed! Today’s tour is a one-of-a-kind journey through Custer State Park that will take you off the beaten path in search of some of North America’s most iconic ungulates, including pronghorns, elk, and if you’re really lucky–a whole herd of stately buffalo. Experienced tour guides will share fascinating stories and facts about the park and wildlife, and will point out interesting details that you otherwise might not see. Bison Safari Jeeps are the only vehicles granted access to drive off-road in the park, giving guests of the tour the best chance to catch the most wildlife during their time in Custer State Park!

• Admission to Custer State Park
• Bison Safari Jeep Tour, including exclusive off-road access

Duration: Approx. 2.5 Hours

Activity Level: Easy

Experience the tranquility of the beautiful Salt Lake City Temple Square with a guided tour of Utah’s most visited attraction. As the world’s largest Mormon temple, the 210-foot-tall Salt Lake Temple, made of granite in the neo Gothic style, took 40 years to build in the 1800s. Its walls are nine feet thick at the base and six feet thick at the top, and this impressive six-spire structure serves as a universal icon of the Mormon Church. Learn about the temple and Temple Square’s history, architecture, and future plans. Your evening tour will focus on the 35-acre Temple Square and beautiful Conference Center, a modern three-story building with a huge auditorium, art gallery, films, terrific views, and a roof garden full of indigenous plants.

• Guided tour of Temple Square

Note: Tour only, no dinner for 5/12 and 6/14 Salt Lake tours. Flights must arrive by 1pm at Salt Lake City if you want to join the tour.

Duration: Approx. 3 Hours

Experience the real Western lifestyle this evening with a hearty dinner, boot-stomping entertainment, and bull riding! Your evening will begin with an all-you-can-eat Chuckwagon feast hosted by the Cody Cattle Company, followed with the down-home, country sounds of Ryan Martin and his Triple C Cowboys Band.

• All you can eat Chuckwagon dinner – chicken, beef brisket, potatoes, baked beans, applesauce, Caesar salad, cole slaw, corn bread, brownies, lemonade, and coffee. Menu subject to change.
• Live Country-Western, hand-clappin’, boot-stompin’ fun with Ryan Martin and his Triple C Cowboys Band!

Note: Available only on tours from June to September

Duration: Approx. 4 Hours

Enjoy a peaceful 17-mile scenic float trip down the Snake River. Simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery and wildlife views all around you while your guide does all the work!

• Grand Teton views and spectacular scenery
• Sit back and let your guide do the paddling as you float down the Snake River for approximately 2.5 hours. Listen in as they share the history, geology, and wildlife of the region.
• You may see beaver, cutthroat trout, and different species of birds like the cliff swallows, osprey, and bald eagles

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Experience nature at its finest...

Banff & jasper national parks sightseeing, rocky mountain coach tours, nestled in one of world’s largest swath of mountain peaks, the canadian rockies exhibit a rare natural wilderness that offers a last refuge for old-growth forests and whole mountain ecosystems. join one of our award-winning canadian rockies guided bus tours to explore easy and accessible trail walks to fabulous viewpoints. wander around glacier-fed turquoise lakes set against a backdrop of massive glaciers and spiral mountain peaks, and watch bighorn sheep and elk grazing contentedly as they drift across wild valleys., circle west, price (double, per person).

Standard Hotel : $1,129 – $1,289 / Premium Hotel: $1,659 – $2,119

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver

• Day 1-4: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
• 3 nights of hotel accommodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper
• 3 breakfasts
• Park Pass & Toll-fee
• Services of a mountain tour director
• Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons
• Optional Activities: Ice Explorer tour, Banff Gondola ride
• Beautiful booklet of the Canadian Rockies

Western Trails

Standard Hotel : $1,229 – $1,389 / Premium Hotel: $1,759 – $2,219

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Calgary

• Day 1-3: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
• Day 4: Scenic coach journey from Banff to Calgary

Western Classic

Standard Hotel : $1,309 – $1,469 / Premium Hotel: $1,829 – $2,279

Calgary → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver

• Day 1: Scenic coach journey from Calgary to Jasper
• Day 2-4: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise

Mystic Mountains

Standard Hotel : $1,829 – $2,089 / Premium Hotel: $2,559 – $3,219

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Kelowna → Vancouver

• Day 2-5: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper,, Lake Louise & Kelowna
• 4 nights of hotel accommodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper, 1 night in Kelowna
• 4 breakfasts
• Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons, a Winery tour

West Coast Triangle

Standard Hotel : $1,629 – $1,889 / Premium Hotel: $2,359 – $3,019

• Day 1-5: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise &  Wine Country

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Circle West – Absolutely fantastic experience

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Local’s Guide to the Best Rocky Mountain Tours from Denver

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

If you’re planning a trip to the Mile High City, you’ll love this list of the best Rocky Mountain tours from Denver.

A trip to Colorado wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park .

With everything from snowy tundra to flower-filled meadows, crashing waterfalls to serene lakes , this high-elevation outdoor playground showcases the full range of Colorado’s natural beauty.

But it’s an hour’s drive from Denver, through thick metro traffic and along white-knuckle mountain roads. If you don’t want the stress of driving yourself, choose one of these Rocky Mountain tours from Denver.

A local guide will do the driving for you and take you to RMNP’s best scenic overlooks and hiking trails .

Table of Contents

Top Picks: Denver Rocky Mountain Tours

Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver

✅ Great for Colorado first-timers

✅ 8-hour tour

✅ Transportation & lunch

Half Day Rocky Mountain Escape

✅ 4 hour tour

✅ Visit less-crowded viewpoints

✅ Clear Creek Canyon & Echo Lake Park

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

✅ 8 hour tour

✅ Includes 4-mile hike

✅ Transportation & hiking guide included

Rocky Mountain Tours from Denver

For your first visit to colorado: rocky mountain national park tour from denver.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 67 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour guide, transportation, lunch, park entrance fees | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day tour provides a taste of everything the Rocky Mountains and Foothills have to offer.

You’ll drive through Boulder for views of the majestic Flatirons and the University of Colorado’s beautiful redstone campus.

Then you’ll explore RMNP on Trail Ridge Road, which climbs to elevations over 12,000 feet and offers countless stops to take photos and drink in the scenery.

A turkey or vegetarian sandwich is included. Afterward, you’ll explore the charming resort town of Estes Park and its haunted Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King to write The Shining .

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For budget travelers: Half Day Rocky Mountain Escape

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 840 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 4 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, water refill (bring your own bottle!) | ⛰️ Book now

This affordable half-day Rocky Mountain National Park tour from Denver is a great way to get acquainted with Colorado’s natural beauty on a budget.

Your guide will drive you from downtown Denver to RMNP, where you’ll stop at some of the less-crowded viewpoints.

You’ll get a chance to stretch your legs at Clear Creek Canyon and Echo Lake Park, which offer easy river strolls and nature walks suitable for all ability levels.

On the way home, you’ll hit up a local brewery in the old mining town of Idaho Springs to round out your Colorado experience.

To get off the beaten path: Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 387 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Expert hiking guide, water refill, transportation, snowshoes/yaktracks if needed, packed lunch | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day guided hiking tour is perfect for travelers who would rather explore RMNP on foot. The tour picks up in downtown Denver, Boulder, or Estes Park, then heads to RMNP for a four-hour guided hike .

The hike will be at an intermediate difficulty level and a moderate pace to accommodate all guests, so expect to be challenged but also have plenty of time to appreciate the scenery. Snowshoes are included in winter and spring .

This tour provides a packed lunch during the hike, and they’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions.

For a customized experience: Private Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 60 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Hotel pickup, National Park fees, bottled water, snacks, driver/guide | ⛰️ Book now

This private, fully customizable tour is perfect if your group wants to go beyond the usual tour stops in RMNP.

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Denver or Boulder and will choose stops and hiking trails based on your group’s needs and interests.

You’ll have the option to make additional stops at nearby Estes Park, the Stanley Hotel, or the hidden-gem town of Lyons.

This is an active sightseeing tour rather than a strenuous hiking tour, but they aim to give guests plenty of time to stretch their legs and explore RMNP’s rugged outdoors.

If your group wants to spend more time walking, they can help you choose some light hiking trails.

For the best value: Rocky Mountain National Park in Summer Tour from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 230 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 10 hours | ✅ Includes: National Park fees, local driver/guide, commentary, picnic lunch in the park, snacks/water bottle refills | ⛰️ Book now

Of all the Rocky Mountain tours from Denver, this one arguably provides the most bang for your buck. At 10 hours, it’s slightly longer than most full-day options, and it includes snacks, water, and lunch.

This tour hosts up to 12 guests and picks up at Union Station in downtown Denver.

Once you reach RMNP, you’ll witness the destructive power of nature at the Alluvial Fan, which was created by a dam breach 40 years ago. Now, the area is a field of boulders—some as big as cars—with water cascading between them.

After more photo ops and a picnic lunch at Horseshoe Park, you’ll be given ample time to explore Estes Park’s boutique shops and galleries or take a stroll along the Big Thompson River.

For snow lovers: Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver Winter and Spring

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 209 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: National Park fees, water refills, transportation | ⛰️ Book now

This Rocky Mountain tour from Denver is perfect if you visit in winter or spring, when you’ll get to see RMNP turn into a wonderland of snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls.

After picking up guests at Union Station, this full-day tour passes through downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado on the way to RMNP.

In the park, you’ll stop at Sprague Lake for an easy half-hour hike, with snow treads provided if the trail is slippery. Other photo ops include Many Parks Curve overlook, the Alluvial Fan, and Horseshoe Park—where you may spot some moose or bighorn sheep.

Afterward, you’ll spend an hour and a half exploring Estes Park at your own pace.

For the whole family: Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 1945 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Landing and facility fees, professional guide and driver, bottled water | ⛰️ Book now

This full-day option by Aspire Tours picks up in downtown Denver or Boulder. In a small group with up to 13 guests, you’ll take in RMNP’s dramatic scenery while driving along Trail Ridge Road and stopping at various points of interest. Lunch is provided.

Stops include Lily Lake, where you’ll get breathtaking views of Longs Peak and a chance to stretch your legs on an easy 15-minute trail. After exploring RMNP, you’ll have a long stop in Estes Park to grab a snack or souvenirs.

If you’re short on time: Small-Group Tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 93 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Bottled water, park admission, guide | ⛰️ Book now

This half-day Rocky Mountain tour from Denver picks up and drops off at downtown Union Station.

Your guide will drive you through RMNP, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way so you can take in all the lakes, meadows, and tundras RMNP has to offer.

You’ll also get a chance to explore Estes Park and its haunted Stanley Hotel—maybe you’ll spot some ghosts.

For outdoor adventurers: Private Hiking Tour to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver and Boulder

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 12 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, entrance fees, snacks, water, expert hiking guide, snowshoes/yaktracks if needed | ⛰️ Book now

Travelers looking for adventure will love this day trip from Denver to the Rocky Mountains. This private tour prides itself on providing a customized, bespoke hiking experience.

Your expert hiking guide will pick you up at your hotel in Denver or Boulder and guide you on a full-day trek through Rocky Mountain National Park, tailored to your skill and fitness level. Depending on the season, you might even get to do some snowshoeing.

This is a great option if you want to get your boots dirty, avoid the crowds, and explore RMNP in true Colorado fashion. Water and snacks are provided.

For wildlife watching: Private Birding Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 18 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Coffee/tea, bottled water, transportation, snacks, lunch | ⛰️ Book now

This is the best Rocky Mountain National Park tour for birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, and anyone who wants to learn more about the park’s ecology.

A naturalist guide will help you spot alpine animals like elk, moose, snowshoe hares, Clark’s nutcrackers, and pine grosbeaks.

This full-day tour includes pickup from your hotel, coffee, tea, snacks, and lunch, and a stop at a local brewery on the way back to unwind with a pint.

This is also a private tour, meaning you and your group will be the only guests, which allows the guide to answer all your questions and personalize your experience.

Final Thoughts: Denver RMNP Tours

If you don’t want to test your driving skills on Colorado’s winding mountain roads, Rocky Mountain tours from Denver are a great way to explore RMNP in a day.

There are options for all budgets and tastes, covering everything from must-see stops to off-the-beaten-path hiking trails.

Hopefully, these tips helped you choose the best tour for your Colorado trip.

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13 Best Estes Park Hotels: Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park

Rachel Craft started traveling after being cooped up for a year during the pandemic, and now she’s hooked. She loves hiking, biking, snorkeling, and discovering vegan eats in the places she visits. When she’s not busy exploring, she writes fantasy and sci-fi stories for children and teens. You can learn more about her writing at www.racheldelaneycraft.com.

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Snow-capped peaks, scenic grandeur: What to expect at Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is no hidden gem. 

Over 4.1 million people visited the park last year, making it the fifth most visited national park in America, according to National Park Service statistics. 

It’s so busy in the summer that timed entry reservations are required for a good chunk of each day.

Here’s what draws so many people to Rocky Mountain and what travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series .

What is so special about Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you close your eyes and think of the southern Rockies, “Rocky Mountain National Park captures all of that,” said the park’s Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson.

“Snow capped peaks, amazing recreational opportunities for 12 months out of the year, watchable wildlife , and scenic grandeur,” she said that’s what visitors always extol. 

She added that the Continental Divide runs right through the park, and the park is the headwaters for numerous major rivers.

What is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park?

The answer depends on your interests.

“Do you want to see snow and ice, or do you want to see wildflowers and more greenery?” Patterson asked. “Are you interested in hiking? Are you interested in snowshoeing?” The park has more than 350 miles of hiking trails .

The busy season is late May through mid-October when temperatures are milder, all roads are open, and entry reservations are required during certain times of the day. 

“My favorite part about Rocky is just how different it is depending upon what season you visit the park,” Patterson said.

What city is closest to Rocky Mountain National Park? What town should I stay in?

“We have two wonderful communities that are right at the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park,” Patterson said. “Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side.”

She added that about 80% of visitors enter through Estes Park, which is also closer to Denver and its international airport. However, she said visitors enjoy both gateway communities. 

“Estes Park and Grand Lake both have wonderful amenities from lodging to restaurants to other activities that people can do when they're visiting this area,” she said. 

Can you drive through Rocky Mountain National Park without a reservation?

Yes, but it depends on when you visit.

Timed entry reservations are required to access most of the park between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. 

However, if you want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road, you’ll need a different type of reservation called Timed Entry+. That reservation grants access to all the parks' roads but is specifically required for Bear Lake Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20.

If you enter outside of those hours or dates, you won’t need a reservation, but it’s important to note that the park’s popular Trail Ridge Road , which connects the east and west sides of the park, is closed through the winter.

How long does it take to drive through Rocky Mountain National Park?

“If somebody's coming when Trail Ridge Road is open, we recommend people to give themselves at least three hours to drop over the top of the park,” Patterson said. 

That also allows time to stop and take in views and shorter hikes along the way. 

“You never know what you might see as you drive along the road, and you want to give yourself plenty of time,” she said. “Also, the speeds of travel on the road should be slow … It’s not like you’re driving a highway.”

How much time do I need to see Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Because we're so close to a large population in Colorado we have people that will come up here for two hours,” Patterson said. Locals can visit any time, but she said it would be “a bummer” to only spend a few hours in the park on a first visit. 

She said the average visit is around two days, though you can stay longer to experience more. 

Which Native tribes are tied to Rocky Mountain National Park?

“Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. Rocky was established in 1915,” Patterson said, but she and the park point out that Native Americans have stewarded the land for thousands of years.

 “What is now Rocky Mountain National Park is part of the traditional homeland and territory of many present-day Tribal nations including, the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Montana; Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Oklahoma; Comanche Nation, Oklahoma; Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Kiowa Indian Tribe of Oklahoma, Northern Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation, Wyoming; Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Montana; Southern Ute Indian Tribe of the Southern Ute Reservation, Colorado; Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation, Utah; and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe of the Ute Mountain Reservation, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah,” the park acknowledges on its website.

What else should travelers know about Rocky Mountain?

It can feel like winter into May at the park, and winter can also creep into fall. 

Weather can also change rapidly and differ dramatically, depending on the elevation. The high altitude can also affect travelers who aren’t used to it.

“Just giving yourself some time to acclimate and taking care of yourself, like drinking lots of water, is really crucial because you can get dehydrated here really quickly,” she said. “Being prepared for traveling to a place like Rocky will make all the difference in the world.”

Love Exploring

The Rocky Mountaineer’s Train Route: Your Ultimate Checklist

Posted: February 8, 2024 | Last updated: February 8, 2024

All aboard!

Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks rail route runs between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah. The scenic train journey in the USA’s southwest has a length of 354 miles and takes a day and a half to complete, including an overnight stay in pretty resort town Glenwood Springs. As the route name suggests, the geology of the region is one of its star attractions, with the Rocky Mountains, rugged canyons, russet-colored rocks and swathes of desert visible from the train’s panoramic windows.

Click through the gallery to discover some of the standout experiences from Rocky Mountaineer's epic Rockies to the Red Rocks train trip...

1. See the Mile High City and its Capitol building

Denver, nicknamed the Mile High City after its elevation, is Colorado’s state capital and offers lots to see and do before or after riding the Rocky Mountaineer. You can join free guided tours of the Colorado State Capitol – a grand domed building designed by Elijah E. Myers and opened in 1894. From there it’s a five-minute walk to Denver Art Museum, whose collection of Indigenous works and depictions of America’s West are among its highlights.

2. Start the journey at Denver Train Siding

The Rocky Mountaineer begins or ends its Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Denver Train Siding at 36th Street and Wazee Street. After coach transfers from their hotel, passengers are greeted by members of the crew and warmly welcomed on board. The train is made up of single-deck SilverLeaf carriages, which have comfortable leather seats and panoramic oversized windows that make it easy to enjoy the scenery along the route. 

3. Ride the Big 10 Curve

The line that the Rocky Mountaineer runs on is not only incredibly scenic, it's also remarkable for feats of engineering, including the Big 10 Curve, which was built in the early 1900s and is located around 20 miles from Denver. Named after the degree of tightness along a section of track with a 2% incline, the curve helps minimize the distance traveled on the climb into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Looking back provides fine views of distant Denver and its suburbs far below.

4. Snap verdant landscapes in the tunnel district

The journey into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains includes traveling through a 13-mile stretch of track known as the tunnel district. Completed in 1904, it features 30 tunnels that were hand-blasted through rock. Rising towards the Continental Divide – the mountainous spine of North America – provides opportunities for you to step into the vestibule and breathe in the fresh mountain air, and to photograph the dramatic landscapes.

5. View Gross Reservoir in the Rocky Mountains

The Gross Reservoir is on the eastern side of the USA’s Continental Divide. Its water is pumped from the western side, through the access tunnel constructed for workers building the six-mile Moffat Tunnel that slices under the divide. On one side, water flows into the Pacific while on the east it drops towards the Atlantic. The tunnel is named after David Moffat, who invested his fortune in constructing the Denver, Northwestern and Pacific Railway.

6. Spot the Elizabeth Kurtak Art Gallery in Fraser, Colorado

Journeying on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route means you can sit back and enjoy viewing both rural and urban scenery. The route snakes through Winter Park, a Colorado ski resort that in 2006 became the USA’s highest incorporated town. Nearby Fraser is home to historic wooden buildings typical of those constructed by settlers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One such building is now home to the Elizabeth Kurtak Art Gallery (pictured), a local artist's studio and gallery who specializes in watercolor. 

7. Enjoy insightful commentary from a Rocky Mountaineer host

Intermittently, the hosts who serve food and drink on board the Rocky Mountaineer also pick up a microphone to highlight points of interest along the route. Their commentary provides fascinating insights into the heritage of the railway line, history of places and details relating to nature and geology. They also receive notifications from crew members in other carriages about wildlife sightings, which can include the likes of bald-headed eagles, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and pronghorns – the fastest mammals in North America, who can run at speeds close to 60 miles an hour. 

8. Eat tasty, locally sourced food

The rugged scenery is not the only highlight of the journey. Tasty meals are served to passengers at their seats, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including peach cobbler made with Palisade peaches, beef from local cattle and freshly baked items from Glenwood Springs. The menu is available in the seatback and is explained by the chef, who makes a round of the carriage to take passengers’ orders shortly before the service. The food is paired with regional beer and wine, with options also from elsewhere in the United States.

9. Follow the Colorado River's westward flow

Much of the Rockies to the Red Rocks’ route skirts the USA’s fifth-longest river. On the journey out of Denver, the train picks up the westward flow of the Colorado River near Byers Canyon. At Gore Canyon, the track runs alongside fast-flowing rapids that pose a challenge even to experienced white-water rafters. Elsewhere, the route swings across plains and through steep-sided valleys, including Burns Canyon – named after the trapper and settler Jack Burns.

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10. See rugged canyon walls near Dotsero, Colorado

11. Sweep alongside Interstate 70 in Glenwood Canyon

12. Stay overnight in Glenwood Springs

You’ll stay overnight at a hotel in Glenwood Springs, no matter whether you are heading towards Moab or Denver on the route. That means an opportunity to soak in one of the resort city's hot spring pools. Nomadic Ute people were aware of the healing properties of the geothermally heated, mineral-rich water long before the arrival of the railroad in 1887, which transformed Glenwood into an early wellness destination.

13. See John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday's headstone

The Rocky Mountaineer has a pre-dawn departure when heading west to Moab, which means you’ll need to visit Linwood Cemetery in Colorado the night before if you want to see John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday’s headstone. One of the best-known names of America’s Wild West era, Holliday was a dentist turned gambler and gunslinger who participated in the infamous gunfight at the OK Corral. Suffering from tuberculosis, he headed to Glenwood Springs seeking a cure and died here in 1887. 

14. Breathe in the morning air near New Castle

Hot coffee and tea is provided on the platform at Glenwood Springs station ahead of the westward journey on the second day, where the rush of cool morning air in the vestibule may also help snap you awake. The hills around nearby New Castle are famed for being the location of a coal fire that has smoldered underground for more than a century. Methane caused an explosion in the Vulcan Mine in 1913. Intermittently, smoke is seen above ground.

15. Experience a golden sunrise over the Colorado River

You won’t regret the early start once you see the sun ascending over the rolling hills that rise into the White River National Forest, which sprawls across 2.3 million acres and has 11 ski resorts. Photographers have long known that the hour after dawn is often rewarded by spectacular imagery and passengers aboard the Rocky Mountaineer get to see why at the beginning of the second day. Water vapour sometimes rises off the Colorado River at this hour, reminiscent of steam billowing from a hot bath.

16. Appreciate geology in De Beque Canyon

17. Roll through Colorado's oldest wine producing region

Most Americans associate peaches with the state of Georgia, yet Coloradans tend to swear that those from Palisade are sweeter and juicier. The area gets its name from the fortress-like Palisade rock (pictured), whose steep sides formed from Mancos Shale. It was at Rapid Creek, near Palisade, that Colorado’s first vineyard was established in 1890, with Zinfandel and Muscat grapes among the varietals planted. Passengers on board the train have the opportunity to sample Coloradan wines while traveling through the area.

18. Cross the Utah-Colorado state border

A modest hand-painted sign marks the site of the Colorado-Utah state border, the white capital lettering daubed on the gently meandering red sandstone of Ruby Canyon. Nearby, indentations in the cliff face provide evidence of Indigenous habitation long before European settlers made their way westward. The marks provided a way of reaching dwellings high above the valley floor. The area remains important to Ute people who were resettled on reservations.

19. Experience the arid beauty of eastern Utah

The train provides unimpeded views of eastern Utah’s arid landscape. On seeing the sun-baked yellow grass, dusty earth and slowly crumbling mudstone cliffs, cartoon fans might be forgiven for thinking that all the scenery is lacking is a not-so-wily coyote chasing a beeping road runner. The inhospitable climate played a role in turning Cisco into a ghost town. It’s now rebounding as a place where artists can express their creativity.

20. Tour rock formations in Arches National Park

The Rockies to the Red Rocks rail journey ends at Moab Train Siding, with the entrance to Arches National Park lying on the way to Moab. Late afternoon is an optimal time to tour the eroded rocks that give the park its name. From the siding, Dead Horse Point State Park lies in the opposite direction along Highway 313. It was there that the scene of the Ford Thunderbird driving into the canyon was filmed for the 1991 movie  Thelma and Louise .

21. Go off-road in the hills above Moab

Moab has evolved into a thriving adventure tourism destination. At the outset of the Atomic Age, the surrounding area attracted prospectors and became a hub for uranium mining. Horse riding, river rafting and rock climbing now number among the activities that visitors can try. Off-road driving in buggies and four-wheel vehicles, including Hummers operated by the  Moab Adventure Center , offer a way of exploring dusty hills on the edge of town. And dark skies mean that the fun doesn’t stop with nightfall either. 

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Now check out the most scenic train journey in every US state...

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