Commuter Permits (formerly known as Tri-County Waivers)

A number of years ago Rocky Mountain National Park instituted a fee waiver known as the Tri-County Waiver, available to residents within a 50 mile radius, in the three counties adjacent to the park (Boulder, Grand and Larimer). The original purpose of the waiver was to allow for non-recreational use of Trail Ridge Road as an alternative commuter route for local residents.

Over the past two years Rocky Mountain National Park conducted a review of the Tri-County Waiver program and examined all aspects of the program including the authority, policy, participant compliance, and commercial use of Trail Ridge Road.

To better manage the program, an application process for Commuter Permits will be required for residents, within a 50 mile radius, in the three counties surrounding the park who wish to use Trail Ridge Road for non-recreational travel. There is an administrative cost of $20 for the Commuter Permit. The Commuter Permit is valid for three years. Rocky Mountain National Park will begin charging for Commuter Permits July 15, 2011.

To download a fillable and printable permit application, click here.

Mail or fax completed applications to:

Rocky Mountain National Park
Fee Program Assistant
1000 Highway 36
Estes Park, CO 80517 or 970-586-1352

To request an electronic application, please e-mail us.

Once an application is received and approved, instructions will be e-mailed with payment options.

As an alternative to the Commuter Permit, Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Passes may be purchased for $40 which allows unlimited access to the park, including recreational activities, for one year. Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Pass holders may use the automated pass lanes at the Beaver Meadows and Grand Lake entrances