9 Spots for a Jaw-Dropping Rocky Mountain National Park Sunrise
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Wondering where to catch the Rocky Mountain National Park sunrise? We’ve got you covered because we’ve caught the sunrise in this park so many times as Denver locals.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the US. Its towering peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes make it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.
But there’s nothing quite like catching a sunrise over the majestic scenery. The warmth of a new day flooding the valleys and mountains with life and light is truly breathtaking.
Keep reading to learn about where to see the perfect Rocky Mountain National Park sunrise.
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At a Glance: Sunrise Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park
Before we dive in, if you’re in a hurry, here are our recommended sunrise spots for Rocky Mountain National Park.
| Location | Things to Know |
|---|---|
| Lake Haiyaha | Requires a 4-mile hard hike with 800+ feet of elevation gain |
| Sprague Lake | No hike necessary; easy walk from parking lot |
| Rainbow Curve | Summer only; located off Trail Ridge Road |
| Bear Lake | No hike necessary; easy walk from parking lot |
| Chasm Lake | Requires an 8-mile hard hike with 2500+ feet of elevation gain |
| Alpine Visitor Center | Summer only; located off Trail Ridge Road; no hike necessary |
| Bierstadt Lake | Requires a 3-mile hard hike with 600+ feet of elevation gain |
| Twin Sisters | Requires a 7.5-mile hard hike with 2400+ feet of elevation gain |
| Hallett Peak | Requires a 10-mile hard hike with 3100+ feet of elevation gain |
Rocky Mountain National Park Sunrise
Lake Haiyaha
Lake Haiyaha is the perfect spot to watch the sun rise over Rocky Mountain National Park. With its vast array of boulders and rocky outcroppings, it’s easy to find a spot with a fantastic view of the natural beauty of the area.
Plus, there’s something truly magical about watching the sun rise over the mountains as the day begins. Even more special is that this breathtaking view can often be seen without many other people around; this is one of the lesser-visited sunrise spots.
Keep in mind that the hike up to Lake Haiyaha is a bit steep at times, and there are lots of switchbacks. Be prepared to hike in the dark with lights.
We personally recommend hiking this trail during the day first, so you know what to expect before chancing it in the dark to see the sunrise.
Read More: How to Hike to Lake Haiyaha Rocky Mountain National Park 🥾
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Sprague Lake
Sprague Lake is a great spot to watch the sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park because of its proximity to parking lots. This is a fairly popular spot to catch the sunrise because it’s a really short, relatively flat walk from the places to park.
With unparalleled views of the mountains, it’s hard to find a more beautiful place to catch a glimpse of the day breaking. The lake itself is teeming with wildlife, so you may even get lucky and see an elk or deer passing through if you’re patient enough!
Plus, the quiet solitude of Sprague Lake makes it easy to appreciate nature’s beauty – free from distractions. If you’re looking for an exceptionally scenic sunrise experience, head over to Sprague Lake!
Keep in mind that because this is a popular sunrise spot, you’ll often be here with others in the early morning. But it’s worth it if you don’t want to do a long hike in the early morning.
Rainbow Curve
One of the most spectacular sights in the park is watching the sunrise from Rainbow Curve on Trail Ridge Road.
Here, you will be able to witness a vivid display of colors as the sun rises over the mountains, casting its light on lush valleys and snow-covered peaks.
The entire experience will be awe-inspiring and take your breath away – it’s something that everyone should experience at least once! And if you get up early enough, you can even spot some deer or elk grazing in the valley below.
Keep in mind that because Rainbow Curve is off Trail Ridge Road, it’s only open during certain parts of the year. This is one of the best spots to catch a Rocky Mountain National Park sunrise in the summer months, but it’s closed off in winter.
Bear Lake
The sunrises at Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park are truly spectacular, especially during the fall. The lake reflects the changing colors of the sky – from pink and orange to a deep blue.
Bear Lake is easily one of the best places to visit in the park because of its beauty, and it’s also right at the beginning of the hikes to both Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha.
It’s a relatively flat walk around the lake, and there are many benches around the park where you can sit and take in the view.
The best way to experience a sunrise here is to rise early and bring some snacks with you. You’ll be rewarded with some unforgettable views!
Chasm Lake
Chasm Lake is one of the best places to see the sunrise in Rocky Mountain National Park. Located near Longs Peak, the highest peak in the park, Chasm Lake is nestled between two rocky peaks and surrounded by beautiful mountain views.
Keep in mind to get to Chasm Lake, you do have to partake in a hard, 8-mile hike with 2,500+ feet of elevation gain, but it’s worth it for the view.
On a clear morning, you can watch the sun slowly rise over the landscape as it illuminates everything around. The reflection of this light on the lake’s surface makes for a breathtaking sight, one that will stay with you forever.
Seeing the sunrise at Chasm Lake is definitely an experience worth checking out.
Alpine Visitor Center
Witnessing sunrise at the Alpine Visitor Center off Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is an experience you don’t want to miss!
Especially during early summer, when the wildflowers are in full bloom and the sun slowly rises above the snow-capped peaks, it’s truly an unforgettable sight.
There’s nothing quite like seeing that first light break through the night sky and watching it linger on each mountain peak as if they’ve been doused in golden glitter.
Whether you go alone or with a group of friends, this stunning spot is one you won’t soon forget.
Similar to Rainbow Curve, the Alpine Visitor Center is off Trail Ridge Road, so it’s only open during the warmer months of the year. It takes nothing but a short drive to get here, though. No hike is necessary.
Twin Sisters
Twin Sisters is one of the best spots to see the Rocky Mountain National Park sunrise. It’s situated in a stunningly beautiful alpine meadow, giving visitors a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks as the sun rises over them.
The hike to get there is relatively long and hard compared to other trails in the park, making it a great option for hikers who are looking for an intense adventure and still want to experience Rocky Mountain’s grandeur.
The hike is about 7.5 miles long, and there is an elevation gain of about 2500 feet.
If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a great view, Twin Sisters is sure to give you a memorable sight of the sunrise that you won’t soon forget.
Bierstadt Lake
The sunrises at Bierstadt Lake are truly breathtaking. The lake is in an open area, with the surrounding mountains providing an unparalleled backdrop for the morning sky.
From the lake, you can also spot elk and deer wandering around nearby meadows – it’s always a special treat to witness wildlife during such a special time of day.
The quiet stillness and beauty of this scene make it an ideal spot to take in the sunrise as well as your own thoughts.
Whether by yourself or with friends, Bierstadt Lake is definitely one of Rocky Mountain National Park’s hidden gems that shouldn’t be missed in the early morning.
There is a moderate hike needed to catch the sunset here, that’s about 3 miles long with 620 feet of elevation gain.
Hallett Peak
Hallett Peak offers stunning views and an incredible atmosphere that’s unmatched at any other spot in the park. It’s also a great spot to watch the colors change from deep blues and purples to bright oranges and yellows as the sun rises over the horizon.
Again, this is truly one of the more difficult hikes in the park, though it is best for those who have lots of experience. It’s about 10 miles out and back with 3200 feet of elevation gain, and it’s extremely challenging.
The best time to do this hike is in the summer, so you’ll want to start early.
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Final Thoughts: Sunrise in Rocky National Park
The Rocky Mountain National Park sunrise is a spectacle that many are lucky enough to see in person. From the brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds at dawn to the awe-inspiring mountain scenery and wildlife, it’s an unforgettable experience.
To make sure you get the most out of your journey, be sure to plan ahead, explore the area thoroughly, and stay safe while enjoying nature. Your visit will be one you carry with you forever.
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