Trail Ridge Road
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
About This Activity
Trail Ridge Road is the crown jewel of Rocky Mountain National Park — a 48-mile drive between Estes Park and Grand Lake that reaches 12,183 feet, making it the highest continuous paved highway in the US. The road traverses three ecosystems: montane forest, subalpine, and alpine tundra. Stop at scenic overlooks like Many Parks Curve, Forest Canyon, and the Alpine Visitor Center (the highest visitor center in the National Park System). Watch for elk, marmots, and pikas. The road is typically open late May through mid-October, weather permitting. Important: Timed entry reservations are required May through mid-October (book at recreation.gov). Allow 3-4 hours for a one-way trip with stops.
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See This in an Itinerary
This activity appears in 3 of our curated itineraries.
Best 7 Days in Colorado — Fast Pace
Denver → Colorado Springs → Rocky Mountain National Park
Best 10 Days in Colorado — Fast Pace
Denver → Colorado Springs → Rocky Mountain National Park
Best 14 Days in Colorado — Fast Pace
Denver → Colorado Springs → Rocky Mountain National Park
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Trail Ridge Road: App guided - half day
Spend a half-day driving Trail Ridge Road. With the help of your personalized App Guide, you can pick and choose what yo
Trail Ridge Road: App guided - full day
With a full day to explore, you can sightsee at a more leisurely pace and visit more of the sights highlighted in your A