Rocky Mountain Activities

Climbing and Mountaineering

Climbing has been a popular activity in and around the area known today as Rocky Mountain National Park since the 1800's. The wide variety of peaks and granite rock formations in the Park provide excellent opportunities for a wide spectrum of climbing including rock, big wall, snow and ice, bouldering and mountaineering. It is a mecca for local climbers, as well as those from around the world. Opportunities for climbing exist in many areas of the park including Lumpy Ridge and Longs Peak. Whichever activity you select, it is your responsibility to respect the areas you visit, minimize your impacts, and know and obey all park regulations.

With the advent of sport climbing in the United States, this recreational pursuit has increased significantly in recent years. As the attractiveness of the sport continues to grow, it becomes necessary to balance this recreational activity with responsible management of the Park's resources. In balancing preservation versus use, the objective is to allow climbing to continue as freely as possible, while minimizing impacts on environmental resources and other park visitors. Respect for the environment and a commitment to Leave No Trace climbing techniques are required of the climbing community to maintain a mutually beneficial partnership.

Biking

Bicycles are only allowed on park roads. Unfortunately, park roads have narrow or no shoulders, and often carry heavy traffic. To minimize conflicts with vehicles, plan your ride for the early morning hours. Try to be off the road in late afternoon when thunderstorms and lightening create serious hazards. Old Fall River Road and Beaver Meadows Road, both gravel surfaces, are open to bicycles early in the summer season, before they open to vehicles. Check with the park's Information Office regarding specific dates.

Winter Activities

Skiing and Snow Shoeing
Snow accumulation varies tremendously across Rocky Mountain National Park. The West Side of the park receives moisture-bearing storms first, and has the deepest accumulation of the fluffy white stuff. Often there is sufficient snow cover by late November to cover rocks, logs, and other obstacles, making trails and slopes safe for skiing and snow shoeing. There are no ski lifts in the park, so skiers generally use cross-country equipment that allows them to ascend as well as descend in mountainous terrain.
The East Side of the park, the lee side of the mountains, is relatively dry and snow cover is patchy, especially early in the winter. Strong winds blow what snow falls into drifts, covering some areas but exposing others. Snow coverage is often intermittent below 9500 feet. Above that elevation, steep slopes and variable snow coverage result in challenging ski conditions.
Although the East Side does not really offer beginning cross-country skiing, it does have a selection of trails suitable for the beginning snow-shoer. Free ranger-led walks (link to ranger-led activities) can help you get started. If you don't have your own "shoes", several local stores offer equipment rentals ( link to concessions).

Horseback Riding

Horses have been part of Rocky Mountain Park's tradition since its designation as a national park in 1915. Recreational pack animal use is balanced with other recreational uses such as hiking.
Stock is permitted at established backcountry campsites designated for stock use.
There are two stables located within the park: Glacier Creek Stables and Moraine Park Stables. There are dozens of stables outside the park.
There are two Estes Park stables open in the winter: Sombrero Stables and Aspen Lodge Stables.
Approximately 260 miles of trails are open to commercial and private horse use, which makes up about 80% of the total trail network in Rocky Mountain National Park.