Contact: Kyle Patterson, (970) 586-1363 In 2016, Rocky Mountain National Park was the fourth most visited national park with over 4.5 million visitors. This visitation represents a 32 percent increase since 2014, and a 40 percent increase since 2012. Over the last 100 years, the reasons people visit are the same; to experience nature, to seek solitude, to enjoy scenic grandeur, to watch wildlife, and to partake in outstanding recreational activities.Popularity and high visitation during the summer and fall, particularly during 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. can mean full parking lots, congested roads, busy trails, and long lines and wait times at entrance stations. Park managers will continue to address what effect this level of visitation will have on visitor and staff safety, resource protection, visitor experiences and operational capacity. Last year during the summer and early fall, park staff restricted vehicle access in three specific areas, the Bear Lake Road corridor, the Wild Basin area, and Alpine Visitor Center when parking areas filled and heavy congestion warranted. This occurred most weekends from late June through September of 2016. We are continuing to implement these short term efforts in 2017. Plan ahead for a more enjoyable visit to Rocky!
Bear Lake Trailhead by 8:30 a.m. Park and Ride by 10:30 a.m. Wild Basin Corridor by 9:30 a.m.
The remaining fee free days for 2017, are August 25, September 30, and November 11-12. For further information about Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206. |
Last updated: June 7, 2017