Rocky Mountain National Park tour: 11 miles above timberline

Walk to a waterfall, then climb to 12,183 feet on the highest paved road in North America

A ten-hour guided tour from Denver takes you into Rocky Mountain National Park with a live guide, covering a waterfall walk, an 11-mile drive along Trail Ridge Road at alpine elevation, a picnic lunch in the park, and a stop in Estes Park village. The group stays under twelve people, and the guide selects stops and lunch location based on conditions that day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

• Enter Rocky Mountain National Park
• Walk to waterfall and alluvial fan
• Enjoy picnic lunch in mountain valley
• Drive 11 miles on Trail Ridge Road
• Stop at scenic overlook for wildlife
• Visit Ranger Station and gift shop
• See Poudre Lake and Continental Divide
• Walk in alpine for panoramic views
• Short walk with views of Long's Peak
• Exit park through Beaver Meadows
• Stroll Elkhorn Avenue in Estes Park
• Visit historic Stanley Hotel

The experience

The day starts with entry into Rocky Mountain National Park and a walk down a trail to a waterfall and alluvial fan, where you'll see boulders the size of cars deposited on the valley floor. After that short walk, you settle into a picnic lunch nestled in a mountain valley next to a stream or scenic lake. The guide picks the spot depending on what the day allows. Snacks and water bottle refills come with you throughout.

The centerpiece is Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved highway in North America. You travel 11 miles into the alpine, stopping to walk down overlooks and photograph the majestic views. At the highest point on the road, you reach 12,183 feet and look for Pika, Bighorn Sheep, and yellow-bellied marmots. You'll also see Poudre Lake and the Continental Divide, walk in the alpine for panoramic views, and catch sight of Long's Peak and mountain valleys. Throughout the drive and stops, the guide points out herds of grazing elk and other wildlife along the way.

On the way out, you exit through Beaver Meadows, still watching for wildlife. Then the tour stops in Estes Park village, where you can stroll Elkhorn Avenue, grab a drink or ice cream, and pop into local shops. If you're interested, you can visit the Historic Stanley Hotel, built in 1909 and made famous by Stephen King's novel "The Shining." The whole outing is led by a local driver and guide who provides live commentary on board.

What’s included

• Picnic lunch in the park.
• snacks and water bottle refills throughout the day.
• National Park entrance fees.
• live commentary from a local guide and driver.
• small-group format with twelve guests or fewer.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 29 May 2027

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (5 and older) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 100

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by The Colorado Sightseer

Is this one for you?This is a shared tour led by a guide, so you ride and walk at the group's pace rather than setting your own. It suits anyone who wants the high alpine experience, the wildlife sightings, and the stops without driving the mountain roads themselves or planning where to eat and when to stop.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the highest elevation I'll reach on this tour?

Trail Ridge Road takes you to 12,183 feet at its highest point, where you stop to take photos and look for alpine wildlife like Pika and Bighorn Sheep.

Is lunch included, and can I request a specific sandwich?

Picnic lunch in the park is included, and you can choose from Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, Tuna Salad, or Veggie. Just let the operator know at least 24 hours before your tour, or Turkey will be provided by default.

How many people will be on this tour?

The group stays at twelve people or fewer, so it remains small and manageable throughout the day.

What happens if I bring my own National Park pass?

If you bring your own annual or day pass, you'll receive a $10 refund on the tour price.

Will this tour run if the weather is bad?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for mountain weather, which can change quickly at high altitude.

What should I know about the altitude before I book?

The tour reaches 12,183 feet on Trail Ridge Road. If you have concerns about high altitude, consult your physician before traveling.