7 day itinerary
Rocky Mountain National Park
Personalized with:Add Scenic DrivesAdd Points of interestExclude art and natural history museums
Itinerary
A week in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Let’s dive into a fun and adventurous 7-day itinerary that includes scenic drives and points of interest, while keeping it all about the great outdoors!
Day 1: Arrival and Scenic Drive
Morning:
- Arrive at Estes Park, the gateway to RMNP. Settle into your accommodation and grab a hearty breakfast at a local café.
Afternoon:
- Scenic Drive: Start your adventure with the . This road takes you through some of the park's most beautiful areas. Stop at for a short hike around the lake (0.6 miles round trip) and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Evening:
- Head to for a leisurely stroll (0.5 miles round trip) and catch the sunset. It’s a perfect spot for photography!
Day 2: Adventure
Morning:
- Fuel up with breakfast and then hit the road! Drive along , one of the highest paved roads in North America. Make sure to stop at the for stunning views and a chance to learn about the alpine ecosystem.
Afternoon:
- Continue your drive and stop at for panoramic views. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike on the (1 mile round trip).
Evening:
- Return to Estes Park and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Rocky Mountain trout if you’re feeling adventurous!
Day 3: Hiking Day
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to the . If you’re up for a challenge, consider hiking to (8.4 miles round trip). The views of Longs Peak are absolutely worth it!
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a packed lunch at the lake, soaking in the scenery. After your hike, take a leisurely drive back, stopping at for a quick walk around the lake (0.8 miles round trip).
Evening:
- Relax in Estes Park. Maybe treat yourself to some ice cream at a local shop!
Day 4: Wildlife Watching and Scenic Drives
Morning:
- Start your day with breakfast, then head to for some wildlife watching. Early mornings are the best time to spot elk and deer.
Afternoon:
- Drive to , a one-way dirt road that offers a unique perspective of the park. Stop at for a quick photo op.
Evening:
- Return to Estes Park and enjoy a cozy dinner. If you’re up for it, check out a local brewery for some craft beer!
Day 5: Exploring the West Side
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to the area. This is a bit of a drive, but the views are stunning!
Afternoon:
- Explore and . Take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the charming lakeside town. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard!
Evening:
- Have dinner in , then drive back to Estes Park. Enjoy the starry night sky; RMNP is known for its dark skies!
Day 6: More Hiking and Scenic Views
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to the . Hike to (3.2 miles round trip) and enjoy the beautiful waterfall.
Afternoon:
- Continue on to for a picnic lunch. The views are serene and perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Evening:
- Head back to Estes Park. Consider a sunset drive along for a different perspective of the area.
Day 7: Departure and Last-Minute Exploration
Morning:
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up. Before you leave, take a final drive through the park, stopping at any spots you may have missed.
Afternoon:
- If time allows, visit Estes Park’s for a quick tour of the grounds. It’s a historic site with beautiful views.
Evening:
- Depart from Estes Park, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Rocky Mountain National Park!
And there you have it! A week filled with scenic drives, breathtaking hikes, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the natural beauty of RMNP. Don’t forget to pack your camera, plenty of water, and snacks for those hikes! Enjoy your adventure! 🌲🏞️