Natural Features & Ecosystems

Moraine Park
Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park

NPS Photo / Jim Ecklund

 

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the nation, with elevations from 7,860 feet to 14,259 feet. Sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 feet high result in world-renowned scenery. The Continental Divide runs north - south through the park, and marks a climatic division. Ancient glaciers carved the topography into an amazing range of ecological zones. What you see within short distances at Rocky is similar to the wider landscape changes seen on a drive from Denver to northern Alaska.

 
Large meadow valleys
Montane (5,600-9,500 feet)

Large meadow valleys and slopes support the widest range of life

Subalpine (9,000-11,000 feet)
Subalpine (9,000-11,000 feet)

Evergreen forests and mountain lakes sustain life in this chilly, demanding environment.

Alpine Tundra (Above 11,000 feet) Life hugs the ground to brace itself from strong winds and cold.
Alpine Tundra (Above 11,000 feet)

Life hugs the ground to brace itself from strong winds and cold temperatures.

Glaciers
Glaciers

A long history of flowing ice formed the bowl shaped basins that extend down into the valleys of the park.

Last updated: August 25, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517

Phone:

970 586-1206
The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mondays - Fridays and 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays in winter. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222.

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