Itinerary: 1 Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

A river surrounded by trees in the fall.

From sweeping mountain views to intricate wildflowers to rushing waterfalls and alpine lakes, there is almost limitless awe to be found within the Rocky Mountain National Park's 416 square miles. So what do you do if you only have one day to experience the breathtaking beauty?

Know before you go: Be sure to check Rocky Mountain National Park’s current reservation requirements and make your reservation at Recreation.gov.

8:00 a.m.

Get an early start and fuel up at one of Grand Lake's best breakfast nooks before heading into the park.

9:00 a.m.

Take a five minute drive from the town of Grand Lake up Trail Ridge Road to get to the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. Watch a 20 minute film about Rocky Mountain National Park to get yourself better acquainted with the history and splendor of this 100-year-old national park, get your bearings with the center's three-dimensional park map, and take in the unbeatable views from this beautiful center.

Pick up maps from the center before embarking on a drive up Trail Ridge Road. The Kawuneeche Visitor Center is open year round from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

Continue driving north into Rocky Mountain National Park via Trial Ridge Road, and keep an eye out for some magnificent view points along the way. If you choose to drive the full length of this scenic pass through to Estes Park, the drive will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternately, you can stop along the way to take a stroll along a few miles of the approximately 355 miles of maintained hiking trails in the park, turning around at any point to head back toward Grand Lake.

Whatever you choose, keep your eyes open for the variety of wildlife the park has to offer. With about 60 types of mammals, 280 species of birds and 900 types of plants, you're bound to see something new and exciting in the park.

12:30 p.m.

Take your trip full circle and head back on Trail Ridge Road toward Grand Lake. Pack a lunch to have a relaxing picnic at your favorite scenic overlook along the way. The Alpine Visitor Center is a great place to stop to eat your lunch and learn a bit more about the tundra that makes up one third of Rocky Mountain National Park.

2:30 p.m.

When you're almost back to town, stop at the Shadow Mountain Lookout Trailhead. The parking lot for this trailhead is located to the south between Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake at 40°14'25.0"N 105°49'31.8"W.

The Shadow Mountain Lookout Trail is a total of 10.2 miles of moderate hiking, and the panoramic views from the tower are worth the lengthy trek. Allow about two hours to hike up and an hour and a half to hike down from the lookout. Check to make sure the tower is open and that you aren't hiking back after sunset depending on the season.

6:30 p.m.

Head back into town for a well-deserved feast at one of Grand Lake's top restaurants, and call it a day.

With a day full of scenic views, wildlife encounters and enriching historical experiences, it's no wonder visitors keep coming back again and again. When you return, check out our 2-day itinerary or our week-long itinerary to keep the grand adventure going a little bit longer.

Follow the “rule of thumb”. If you can cover the animal with your thumb, you're at a safe distance. Store food, trash and scented items in bear-proof containers to avoid unwanted interactions.
Stay on designated trails, even in less-than-ideal conditions. It protects wildlife, prevents erosion and ensures you remain on the safest terrain. If you're camping, choose a designated campsite.
Ensure campfires are permitted in your area. Once lit, keep them small and monitored, and extinguish fully when finished. Be careful when smoking, discarded butts are common causes of wildfires.
Always pack out your trash, including peels and cores. No restroom? Be ready with a disposable WAG bag or bury your business 8 inches deep, at least 70 steps from all water sources and trails.
Never take plants, rocks or cultural items you find while exploring. Keep gear clean to prevent the spread of invasive species and preserve the landscape. Even minor damage can have a lasting impact.
Respect fellow adventurers in Grand County. Be mindful of noise and yield to uphill hikers and bikers who need the momentum. Always give priority to wheelchair users and equestrians on the trail.
Grand County weather is as varied as our activity options. Be prepared with warm layers, sun protection and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Explore lesser-traveled sites to avoid the crowds.
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