How to Enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter
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Rocky Mountain National Park is a jewel of the Colorado Rockies. Its expansive landscapes and majestic mountains draw thousands of visitors each year, but in the winter months, it becomes an even more magical experience.
We lived in Denver for a few years, and seriously, Rocky Mountain National Park in winter is our favorite time to visit the park. It’s seriously the most beautiful during this time of year.
With snow-blanketed pine trees, frozen lakes and rivers, and a unique array of wildlife, there’s no shortage of wonder for those who visit during this time. Read on and explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park in winter—it’s sure to fill you with awe and wonder!
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Why visit Rocky Mountain National Park in winter?
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter is a magical experience like no other. With crisp, snow-covered peaks, smaller crowds, and abundant outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why this iconic national park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels when the temps drop.
The most obvious advantage to visiting Rocky Mountain National Park during the winter season is its stunning beauty. With snow-covered mountains and valleys, ice-covered lakes, and glistening rivers and streams, you can’t help but be spellbound by the awe-inspiring beauty that the park has to offer.
In addition to its beauty, there are countless activities for visitors to enjoy in the park during winter months: cross-country skiing or snowshoeing; hiking along trails with amazing views; stargazing under night skies; fishing in icy cold mountain streams; and even sledding down snowy hills.
For those who prefer a less strenuous activity, Rocky Mountain National Park also offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing. For instance, you could take a scenic stroll around Bear Lake. You can also take pictures of elks and bighorn sheep as they wander through meadows blanketed by fresh fallen snow.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or just want to relax while taking in breathtaking scenery, visiting Rocky Mountain National Park during wintertime has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever, we highly recommend visiting during the off-season.
Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park Packing List
We’ve visited RMNP many times during the winter months, and each time we end up making a note to bring another piece of gear for our next trip. To save you the hassle, here’s what we recommend packing.
Pack warm, waterproof clothing and layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Make sure to wear boots that are both warm and waterproof to ensure you stay comfortable on your hikes. Bring hiking poles and/or spikes for your shoes – the trails get icy and dangerous if you’re unprepared.
Pack a map of the area, a compass, a flashlight or headlamp, and snacks in case of emergency. Ensure you also bring along hats, gloves, and scarves to keep you warm.
When you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in winter, it’s important that you bring sunglasses with 100% UV protection due to the increased reflection in the snow. Or, at least bring a hat that can help to protect your eyes.
Finally, make sure you have enough water for everyone in your group and a first aid kit just in case something unexpected happens during your visit.
Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter Best Things to Do
Go on one of the best Rocky Mountain National Park winter hikes
Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular destination for hikers all year round. In the winter, the park offers a unique and beautiful landscape completely different from what it looks like during summer.
The cool temperatures and snow-capped peaks create a picturesque setting for visitors to explore. Although the snow makes for more challenging terrain, it also adds a sense of adventure and excitement to your hike.
You can enjoy an incredible winter experience in Rocky Mountain National Park with careful planning and preparation. Bring extra layers of clothing and traction aids like crampons if you plan on tackling icy trails!
While some trails aren’t great for winter hiking (like Lake Haiyaha – in our opinion), some great winter hikes include Sprague Lake, Alberta Falls, and Bear Lake.
Our favorite winter hike in Rocky Mountain is the Emerald Lake Trail. This trail has you pass by three lakes (Bear, Nymph, and Dream – eventually ending up at Emerald) and is relatively quiet in the winter. Usually, just other locals will be on it.
Parking by Bear Lake is generally easier to get in the winter months but just know that it still can be a hassle depending on if you’re there on a holiday or if it happens to be nice weather.
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Go stargazing
Stargazing in Rocky Mountain National Park is an experience like no other. On a clear night, the stars above seem almost close enough to touch! The night sky is an inky blanket of twinkling lights, and the Milky Way Galaxy forms a stunning arch across the sky.
It’s easy to spot constellations, but with a telescope, you can unlock even more of the night sky’s mysteries. Plus, Rocky Mountain National Park has light pollution minimized for optimal stargazing.
Make sure to bring warm clothing, snacks, and drinks so you can spend hours marveling at the beauty of the night sky!
Snowshoe on a trail
As snow accumulates, there are many opportunities for outdoor recreation- and one of the best ways to experience this winter wonderland is through snowshoeing. This activity allows you to explore the backcountry at your own pace, with plenty of time to take in the scenery along the way.
A wide variety of trails provide something for every level of experience; from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging courses, there’s something for everyone! And because snowshoeing is a low-impact activity, it won’t disrupt the environment or its inhabitants.
Snowshoeing offers an incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park during wintertime. Some of the best trails to snowshoe include Emerald Lake, Bear Lake, and Lily Ridge.
Don’t worry if you don’t bring your own snowshoes, either. There are many places in Estes Park (like Estes Park Mountain Shop) where you can rent some for the day.
Enjoy sledding
Sledding in Rocky Mountain National Park is a great way to have fun in the snow! Don’t forget to pack warm clothing and extra layers – as temperatures can dip quickly at high altitudes!
Even though there are many places to sled around Colorado, there’s something magnificent about sledding within a national park, right? (We’d have to agree.)
Keep in mind that sledding is only allowed at one place in the park: Hidden Valley. It’s on the park’s eastern side.
Learn at the Visitor Center
Though it seems simple, we always recommend stopping by the visitor center, even in winter. Most of the visitor centers will be closed for the season. However, the one near the Estes Park entrance is usually open, so you can pop in and learn more about the park.
The Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone: ranger-guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Winter offers plenty of opportunities to explore the park and learn about its wildlife.
Watch the Sunset or Sunrise
The sunset or sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park in winter is an awe-inspiring experience. With the shadow of alpine mountains and crisp cold air, you can witness nature’s beauty at its fullest.
When seeing the sun set or rise here in winter, you will be surrounded by a peaceful and serene atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else. The sun setting or rising over the snow-covered peaks will give you a feeling of being connected to this vast wilderness that is so unique and beautiful!
One of our fave spots in winter is Sprague Lake, which we’ve found to be perfect for either sunrise or sunset.
Tips for Visiting Rocky Mountain During Winter
Wondering how to visit Rocky in winter? Here are our best tips.
Bring your own food
When taking a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, packing your own food can be one of the best ways to ensure you have an enjoyable time. Not only does it save you money compared to eating out, it also allows you to customize your meals according to your dietary needs and preferences.
Here are a few tips for packing your own food for a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park:
Bring easy-to-pack foods, like sandwiches, granola bars, nuts, and jerky – these all make great snacks that last throughout the day.
Choose foods with a high caloric content per weight ratio so they won’t take up too much space in your bag. Things like dried fruits and nuts are calorie-dense and can easily tide you over until dinner without feeling bloated or weighed down.
When packing drinks, go for lighter options like bottled water and sports drinks (like Gatorade) that will keep you energized.
If you forget to bring your own food, make a quick stop in one of the nearby towns like Estes Park to pick up something.
You don’t have to start early
Though the busiest time of year for Rocky Mountain National Park is summer, winter still offers a unique opportunity to explore its wonders. Visitors don’t have to start their days early in order to beat crowds, there are no timed entry passes during this season.
That means, unlike summer or fall, guests can enjoy the park at any time during the day and still find plenty of spots to take in stunning views, go snowshoeing, or simply revel in the peace and quiet of nature.
However, keep in mind that sometimes parking can still be difficult to find, especially near Bear Lake.
Dress appropriately
Layering your clothing is essential for staying warm and safe. Layering will allow you to adjust as temperatures change throughout the day. Start with a base layer which will help wick away moisture and keep you warm when it’s cold out.
Next, add a mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket for insulation and warmth. Finally, wear an outer layer that is both weatherproof and breathable, like Gore-Tex or a thick winter jacket. Make sure you also include gloves or mittens, a hat, a scarf, and waterproof boots to complete the outfit!
It is important to dress appropriately when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in winter because extreme weather can be very dangerous. Layers of high-quality clothing can protect you from hypothermia and other risks associated with outdoor adventures in challenging climates.
Pack microspikes & hiking poles
Microspikes and hiking poles are essential pieces of gear for anyone visiting the park in colder months. Microspikes provide much-needed traction on icy trails, reducing the risk of slipping and potentially serious injury.
Hiking poles also help with balance, stability, and support when conducting more technical hikes with snow and ice covering the ground. Microspikes and hiking poles may not be needed for every winter hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, but they are highly recommended when exploring the park’s higher elevation trails.
Not only do they make hiking safer by providing better grip and stability on slippery surfaces, they also add an extra layer of protection against a wilderness environment that can be unpredictable and dangerous during winter.
Check weather ahead of time (be prepared for a change of plans)
Winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park can be fun, but they can also be dangerous if you don’t take the right precautions. One of those precautions is checking the weather ahead of time to make sure that the conditions are suitable for a winter hike!
The park is at a high elevation, and mountain weather can change quickly. Snow and icy conditions can come on suddenly, and snowstorms can leave behind deep drifts and strong winds.
Checking the forecast before heading out will help you better plan your route, know what supplies to bring, and prepare for any sudden changes in weather while you’re on the trail.
Knowing where to look for forecasts is also essential. The National Weather Service typically provides more accurate forecasts than other sources like app-based weather services or local radio stations.
Doing research ahead of time can save you from potential danger – or just an uncomfortable or unenjoyable experience – when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in winter. The Visitor Center can also help if you’re unsure.
Best Winter Hotels Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Where should you stay when visiting Rocky in winter? Here are our fave hotels.
Budget: Silver Moon Inn
Silver Moon Inn is a pet-friendly hotel near Rocky Mountain National Park. Enjoy riverfront views, fuel up with complimentary breakfast, and enjoy shared amenities like hot tubs and laundry facilities – plus rooms with everything from full kitchens to balconies or even fireplaces!
Prices vary depending on the season but tend to be a bit lower in the winter months.
Moderate: The Appenzell Inn
Nestled between the picturesque mountains and the idyllic town of Estes Park, Appenzell is your ticket to a Rocky Mountain adventure. Ten minutes away from RMNP, this accommodation has chic rooms adorned with vintage travel posters that give you just enough Colorado without all the fuss.
Plus there are lower-priced rates in the winter for loaded amenities like pool access and free breakfast!
Luxury: Stanley Hotel
Want a more luxurious (and historic!) stay? Look no further than The Stanley Hotel, the inspiration behind the horror classic, The Shining, by Stephen King.
But beware; this spooky haunt comes with a hefty price tag. Rooms in any building start from $320 per night during the low season. You’ll be sacrificing amenities like fireplaces or spa tubs for location (it’s located close to RMNP), history, and charm – including its lovely grounds.
Even if you don’t stay at The Stanley Hotel, it’s worth visiting at least once during your trip to RMNP!
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in winter is a unique experience that everyone should have the chance to enjoy. Whether you come with family, friends, or by yourself, the breathtaking beauty of the snow-covered landscape will create memories that last a lifetime.
With plenty of outdoor activities and attractions to choose from, it’s easy to find something for anyone who visits. From snowshoeing and sledding to visiting historical sites and taking in the stunning views, there’s something for everyone at Rocky Mountain National Park in winter. So don’t miss out – plan your trip today!
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