Learn About the Park

 

The backbone of Rocky Mountain National Park includes some of the highest mountains in the continental United States. The top third of the park encompasses the alpine tundra, a windswept land above the trees. Landscapes on either side of the Continental Divide feature alpine lakes, forested valleys and a wide range of plants and animals. Iconic summer thunderstorms and persistent winter winds are among the forces that continue to shape this majestic landscape.

  • Nature
    All forms of life, from tiny diatoms to large herds of elk, have found homes in meadows, mountain peaks and everywhere in between.
  • Education
    An outdoor classroom inspires students and teachers to learn about the park in a hands-on setting.
  • History & Culture
    People that have traversed these mountains include early Native Americans, explorers, pioneers, and Euro-American settlers. Modern residents and visitors from across the globe keep this human tradition alive.
  • Science & Research
    The park hosts one of the largest research programs in the National Park Service. Learn about research projects coordinated by the Continental Divide Research Learning Center.
  • Wildland Fire
    For thousands of years, fire has been a natural and necessary part of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem.
  • Photos & More
    Get familiar with the people, places, plants and possible wildlife you can see in the park.
  • Management
    Learn how the park protects these natural resources for future generations.
  • News
    Stay up-to-date on what's happening in the park.

Last updated: September 13, 2019

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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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