How to Enjoy a Trip on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
The 48 miles of Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park are some of the most spectacularly scenic miles in the country. Climbing and winding to a peak of 12,183 feet, a journey on the route--the main artery through the park--makes travelers feel like they are on top of the world. But Trail Ridge isn't for the faint of heart; the 11 miles of roadway above treeline feature steep drop-offs and harrowing hairpin turns. The views, however, are well worth some white-knuckle driving.
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Things You'll Need
- Vehicle
- Camera
- Snacks
- Picnic lunch
- Sunglasses
- Warm clothing
- Comfortable shoes
Instructions
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Check for road conditions at the ranger station before you embark. Closures and delays due to construction or weather are common, and the road shuts down entirely during the winter.
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Dress in layers. It may be warm when you start out, but as the road climbs higher and higher, the temperature drops significantly.
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Pack snacks and a picnic for the drive. There are some lovely spots to stop and eat along the route, which you can find by picking up a Trail Ridge Road guide at the ranger station.
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Start your drive early. A roundtrip on Trail Ridge Road is a full-day adventure.
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Drive slowly and pay careful attention to road signs, as this is a challenging drive. It's a good idea to take turns driving, so everyone gets a chance to enjoy the views.
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Stop at each of the pull-outs along the way. Here you'll find information and some short trails that offer even better views than you can see from the roadway.
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Have your camera ready at all times--the scenery will take your breath away.
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Tips & Warnings
Respect your surroundings. The alpine environment is extremely fragile, and visitors need to be cautious and respectful to preserve its pristine beauty.
Watch out for wildlife, both on the road and when you stop to get out of the car.
The alpine climate of Trail Ridge Road can leave you gasping for breath. To prepare yourself, see "How to Avoid Altitude Sickness."
Resources
- Photo Credit Rocky Mountain National Park
