Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or prefer to view nature from the comfort of your car -- or anything in between -- Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a budget-friendly destination that will connect you with the natural world. It contains more than 415 square miles of meadows, mountains, waterfalls, and lakes, and over 300 miles of hiking trails. It's also home to the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. at an elevation of more than 12,000 feet, offering stunning scenic drives through
the iconic mountain range.
Rounding out its appeal, Rocky Mountain National Park isn't far from Denver, and a couple of nearby small towns offer plentiful amenities and activities that won't blow your budget. We reached out to Cheryl from We're in the Rockies to get her expert advice on how to make a trip to this living monument to wildlife more affordable. "RMNP has incredible natural beauty and is accessible for all," she told us. She recommended spending about two to three days taking in all the sights, and highlighted some of the more inexpensive (or even free) activities in the area.
Read more: The 5 Cheapest Islands In Hawaii For Your Next Tropical Vacation
Explore The Unparalleled Wilderness Of The Rockies
If you've never considered visiting the Rockies before, you might be wondering what's special about the park. It's a truly wild natural wonder. To start with, the Rocky Mountains make up one of the most majestic mountain ranges in the U.S., if not the world. It spans about 3,000 miles and crosses six U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. Additionally, Rocky Mountain National Park contains more than 100 peaks that are higher than 11,000 feet above sea level. Longs Peak, for example, sits at a whopping 14,259 feet.
The park is home to abundant wildlife, such as elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and marmots. It also has a rich history in the Americas. Human activity in the area dates back over 11,000 years, evidence of which you can see at the Moraine Park Museum. Admission is free, and it's worth visiting for the building's historic log cabin architecture and the stunning views it offers at an elevation of 8,100 feet. Even better, whether you're hiking in summer wildflower meadows or fiery aspen canopies in fall, the diversity of landscapes makes every visit feel magical.
Getting To Rocky Mountain National Park
The quaint little town of Estes Park sits at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it the main hub where most visitors start their adventures. It's about a 1.5 hour drive from Denver. There's also a private shuttle company that runs from the Denver airport, train, and bus stations to Estes at $135 round trip. It's recommended to book the shuttle at least a week in advance.
Cheryl pointed out that if you're staying in Estes, there's a daily $2 shuttle into RMNP called the Hiker Shuttle that runs from May through October. It's about a 45 minute drive one-way. However, keep in mind that the shuttle is an extremely popular way to get to the park, and starts taking seat reservations one month in advance.
If you're arriving at RMNP from further west, you might want to use the Grand Lake entrance. Grand Lake tends to be much less crowded, is home to the deepest and largest natural lake in Colorado, and is seriously underrated. The town also has a vibrant arts and culture scene worthy of a detour.
Best Times To Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, Cheryl identified late summer to early fall as a particularly special time to visit: "September is absolutely stunning. The aspens turn to gold and it's perfect hiking weather." In addition, elk mating season begins in September and continues through most of October, meaning they're more active and there's a much higher chance of seeing them.
Beware of avalanche season during winter and spring. This park is known, in part, for its high elevations and alpine tundra ecosystems characterized by treeless, cold, and dry conditions found on mountains. This means that even in July, some mountain peaks in RMNP receive snowfall.
Further, many trails in the park are still covered in snow until May. One of the main roads, Trail Ridge, doesn't open until the end of that month. So, if you're more inclined to go when the weather is turning warmer, Cheryl recommended "waiting until July when the snow melts and all the roads are open."
Entry Fees And Timed Reservations
Standard entry for a vehicle is valid for one week, and costs $35. Cheryl also noted, "If you are visiting more than three national parks in one year, the America the Beautiful Pass is a great value." These discount passes are offered by the National Park Service. Priced at $80, they cover entrance fees and day-use of standard park amenities for one year.
While the cost of entry is quite low, it's super important to plan ahead. Due to an increasing number of visitors, Rocky Mountain National Park has started a new program of timed entry reservations. This is relevant only to travelers who plan to visit during the day, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (i.e. excludes overnight stays). On the first day of each month during the high season, a limited number of timed entry reservations for the month are released on a first-come, first-served basis. Only one timed entry reservation is required per vehicle, per day (not per person). You can purchase them online on the park's reservation website.
If you aren't able to snag a timed entry reservation before they're sold out, you can still visit the park before 9 a.m. or after 2p.m. Or, you can enter without a timed entry reservation during off-season months. Alternatively, the nearby Roosevelt National Forest (about a 2 hour drive from Estes Park) doesn't require a reservation at all.
Save By Sleeping Under The Stars
There are tons of places to set up camp in Rocky Mountain National Park or ride up in the full comfort of your RV. A standard camping spot has an eight person, two vehicle limit and costs $35 per night without electricity or $55 per night with it. For most campsites, a timed entry permit is included with your reservation, which can only be made online and in advance.
Each of the three main campsites on the east side of the park -- Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, and Moraine Park -- offer a slightly different experience. Check the park website for details. The Timber Creek Campgrounds are located on the west side, near Grand Lake. A reservation at that campground provides slightly different access across the park, so again be sure to check the details before confirming your choice.
Back country or wilderness camping, meaning you hike into the forest and pitch your tent without a designated site or facilities, is also possible. It's also quite a bit cheaper at only $36 per permit (rather than per night), which is valid for between seven and 14 days, depending on the time of year. However, campfires are not allowed for this kind of camping. If you go this route and arrive by car, don't forget to put your permit on the dashboard before you get going to avoid paying additional fees.
Try A Community-Oriented Accomodation
If camping's not your thing, Cheryl suggested checking out the YMCA for an affordable stay during your visit to the Rockies. The Y offers an affordable, family-friendly basecamp with easy access to hiking trails, and on-site activities all year round. There are two main types of accommodations: cabins and lodges.
Private cabins tend to be pricey, but may be a good option if you're going with a large group, as they can fit between two and 17 people. Prices vary widely depending on size. For example, the 5 bedroom, 2 full-bath Ranch House can comfortably fit 20 individuals. It costs $489 per night, and also features a large living room and dining room, full-size kitchen, TV, fireplace, and porch. Most travelers, though, will find the real savings at the nine hotel-style lodges. Rooms range from $194 to $244 per night for non members. Many of the rooms are comfortable for up to four to 6 guests.
This isn't your regular YMCA. There are a wide range of on-site amenities, including indoor swimming, mini golf, a craft center, and guided nature programs, making it a great choice for all ages. The emphasis on community and outdoor recreation creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Its location also means visitors can enjoy Estes Park's shops, restaurants, and seasonal events, all while staying in a peaceful mountain setting with panoramic views.
Eating On A Dime
Cheryl informed us that there are abundant food options for everyone's taste and budget during your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. "There is a grocery store in town, so we usually make our own breakfast, pack a picnic, and eat somewhere local for dinner," she said. Having a grocery store nearby is also super convenient if you're camping overnight. Or even for day hikes -- remember there are no restaurants in the park. Stop by the Country Market for locally-sourced ingredients to roast over the fire. Don't forget to bring your favorite grilling accessories for cooking out.
For dining in town, there are also plenty of affordable spots. For breakfast, the Mountain Home Cafe serves up diner-style plates, and Donut Haus has you covered for freshly fried treats. Or, if you're looking for a place to grab a sandwich to-go for your hike, stop by Penelope's. "Our favorite budget option is Antonio's Real New York Pizza. Their famous 26" pizza easily feeds our family of 6 and only costs $49," Cheryl added.
Ride On The Park's Free Shuttle System
Cheryl pointed out that one of the amazing budget-friendly aspects of the park is its free, in-park shuttle system. "[It] eliminates the need to back track on many of these hikes," she said. Note, however, that the shuttle doesn't take visitors on the Trail Ridge Road or the Old Fall River Road. You'll need a car for that.
That said, the shuttle routes are super helpful for getting you to some of the main trails. It runs along two core routes: Moraine Park and Bear Lake. If you take the $2 shuttle in from Estes Park, it'll drop you at the Park & Ride where you can access both routes, which run daily between May and October. If you're camping in the park, you might want to consider staying at the Morain Park Campground since it connects directly to that route. Riding the shuttle not only saves money on gas and parking but also reduces congestion around popular trailheads.
Enjoy The Amazing Scenic Trails
There are more than 150 hiking trails along 300 miles to choose from at Rocky Mountain National Park. Further, it's got one of the most scenic highways in the U.S. known as the "highway to the sky." These paths cross through alpine tundra, diverse elevation ranges, and alongside a handful of gorgeous lakes.
Trail Ridge Road covers 48 miles between Estes Park in the east and Grand Lake in the west. It took many years to build in the 1930s, since construction had to stop due to snow and ice in the winter months. This is a great place to spot moose and elk munching along lush meadows and rivers. It's recommended to spend at least half a day along this absolutely stunning highway.
There are trails for all levels of hikers. The park offers some great suggestions categorized by lakes, waterfalls, and peaks. If you're hiking with kids, check out the paths along the Bear Lake corridor.
Take In The Night Sky
Gazing up at the heavens away from the polluting glow of urban lights isn't just a cheap activity -- it's priceless. The skies above Rocky Mountain National Park (as well as dozens of others in Colorado state) reflect the glory of nature's beauty so well that park officials, researchers, and urban developers are collaborating to protect them from further light pollution. Part of what makes RMNP a favorite for astronomers and hobbyists is that there are many points of high elevation. So, if you're up on top of a mountain at night, don't forget to look up. Another good spot for stargazing is the Trail Ridge Road.
During the summer months, rangers lead visitors in an opportunity to gaze up at the magnificently dark skies of the park through massive telescopes provided by volunteer astronomers. Family friendly activities are provided, such as storytelling about the moon and stars. RMNP also encourages guests to bring a flashlight with a red light or a red-light filter to help protect your night vision and that of other visitors. All night sky programs are weather permitting.
Estes Park also has its own community telescope and observatory with a 16-foot dome. You can book a free, private stargazing session via email - they host a maximum of 14 people for each session. The space is a real hub for the local astronomy community throughout the year, and offers tons of activities including lectures, workshops, and monthly open houses.
Sample Sweet Treats And Peruse Local Art Along Elk Horn Avenue
Cheryl said that while her family likes seeing wildlife in the park, they also love taking time to enjoy the charm of Estes Park's main street. "We enjoy window shopping on Elk Horn Ave, grabbing some saltwater taffy," she shared. The Taffy Shop is well worth a visit. It's been selling handmade treats using the same secret family recipe that got the business started in 1935.
Taking a walk to browse the local art galleries, markets, and public installations is another an excellent way to take in some local culture at no cost. There are nearly a dozen or so art galleries tucked into the corners of Elk Horn Avenue, each with a slightly different perspective on the budding art scene. You can pair them with some time outdoors, adding the town's well-known bronze sculptures to your walking route. The monuments celebrate local history, change-makers, and the natural world. Some of them are hidden in unexpected places, so keep a lookout. A local artisans market pops up during the summer months in the George Hix Riverside Plaza.
The Elk Horn shopping district becomes all the buzz during the holiday months when it hosts the annual Catch the Glow Parade on the day after Thanksgiving. The event tends to draw crowds in the tens of thousands who gather to see the more than 40 entries marching in the parade, including handcrafted floats, marching bands, fire trucks, and specialty vehicles.
Visit The Famously Haunted Stanley Hotel
No trip to the Rockies is complete without visiting the Stanley, Cheryl asserted. Although staying at the famously haunted hotel might cost a pretty penny, visitors should still stop by. This austere yet oddly charming hotel, open since 1909, is rumored to be haunted. That's why it is now known for inspiring Steven King to write the original horror novel "The Shining," which was later turned into a Hollywood classic.
Parking at the hotel between May and October is $10. The hotel offers several walking tour options. Two are more focused on "The Shining" and paranormal activity (one tour is held at night), and another is dedicated to local history. Prices range from $25 to $30 per adult, and the tours last about 60 to 90 minutes. Walking the hotel grounds is another option, with its historic charm. Visitors can stop by the on-site shops, restaurants, or just grab a coffee at the café to soak in the atmosphere without spending much.
Don't Miss The Frozen Dead Guy Museum And Festival
A bit of strange local history about a Norwegian man who wound up in Estes Park has spawned an entire museum and a whacky annual festival. Bredo Morstal, whose children were advocates of cryogenics, died in Norway in 1989. His family shipped his body, packed in ice, to the U.S., and it eventually found its way to the area in 1999. His body was later transferred to a dewar, a special storage container with liquid nitrogen, that is regularly monitored by scientists.
Rumors about the "frozen dead guy" grew to such legendary proportions that locals decided to create an entire festival in honor of his icy presence. Frozen Dead Guy Days happens every March in Estes Park, and is packed with dark humor and cold-themed fun, including coffin races, a costumed ball, polar plunges, frozen salmon tosses, ice carving, and live music. It draws crowds in the thousands.
In 2023, the Stanley Hotel opened the International Cryogenics Museum, the only one of its kind in the world. This museum seeks both to entertain and also educate the public about the science of preserving human remains using ultra-cold storage systems and cutting-edge science. The museum is open daily, and the hotel offers tours at $20 per adult.
Visit Local Watering Holes With Stunning Backdrops
Folks have been making moonshine in these mountains for hundreds of years. And since the '90s, Estes Park has seen its local beer, wine, and spirits scene really blossom, with tasting rooms even drawing city folk out for day trips from Denver. It's totally possible to enjoy these local flavors without splurging.
Many craft breweries feature affordable flights. Wine enthusiasts can also enjoy the local tasting rooms. Several offer reasonably priced tastings or shareable bottles, perfect for splitting with friends after a day on the trails. Valley of the Wind and Snowy Peaks Wineries have some of the most wallet-friendly tasting experiences in the area. At Snowy Peaks, for example, $14 gets you a flight of five of your choice from an extensive list.
Additionally, keep an eye out for happy hour deals. Some spots regularly host free live music and offer late night menus. Outdoor patios with mountain views make for a rich experience.
Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter for access to the world's best-kept travel secrets.
Read the original article on Islands.
