A permit is required to scatter ashes in Rocky Mountain National Park. We can ONLY issue a permit to scatter ashes within the boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park. We cannot issue permits for other National Park Service units, the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake, other natural areas in Colorado or Forest Service units.
There is no charge for the permit.
The guidelines below need to be kept in mind when filling out the request:
- There are no designated sites for scattering of ashes, but the location you choose must be away from developed areas (parking lots, trailheads, campgrounds, picnic areas) and at least 200 feet (70 adult steps) from any water source such as a lake or stream.
- Discretion should be exercised in spreading ashes; doing so is generally a very private moment and care should be given not to disturb other park users.
- Ashes should be spread about downwind and not buried or placed in a pile.
- No markers, cairns, displays, signs, or plaques may be placed in the park.
- We suggest early in the morning as a good time of day for your memorial as the afternoons are usually more crowded and afford less privacy and solitude.
If you are unfamiliar with Rocky Mountain National Park, we have listed a few scenic areas that could be used as a scattering of ashes ceremony location.
Recommended Locations:
- Hollowell Park
- Moraine Park
- Upper Beaver Meadows
- Horseshoe Park
- Hidden Valley
- Endovalley
- Alluvial Fan (east or west of trailhead)
- Mill Creek Basin
- Harbison Meadow
- Coyote Valley
- Lake Irene
- Medicine Bow Curve
- East Inlet Trail
You must be 200 FEET FROM WATER at these locations. Images of these locations can be found online. Please note any seasonal closures. Other sites may be requested; these are just a few recommendations.
Applicants must designate a DATE and LOCATION on their applications. Please do not put a range of dates or list a general location such as "RMNP," "Estes Park" etc. Be specific to the area you would like to go. This will ensure a shortened processing time.
Application
- Download a Scattering Ashes Application to fill out.
- When complete, e-mail your application to ROMO_fees_permits@nps.gov.
- Once your application has been received by Rocky Mountain National Park, you will receive an e-mail with the permit or any clarifying questions.
Contact Us
If you have any additional questions about the Scattering Ashes Permit or the application process, please contact the Commercial Services Office at 970-586-1482 or e-mail us.
