🚗 Rocky Mountain National Park Transportation Tips: Get Around Like a Pro! 🏔️🛣️

#transportation

Heading to Rocky Mountain National Park soon? Here’s how to navigate this mountain paradise with ease — from driving tips to shuttles and parking hacks 👇

🗺️ Getting There:
Closest airport: Denver International Airport (DIA) — about 1.5–2 hours drive
Gateway town: Estes Park, CO — main access point with plenty of services

🚙 Driving in the Park:
Self-driving is your best bet — the park’s scenic roads like Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake Road offer breathtaking views.
Trail Ridge Road (open late May to Oct) is the highest paved road in the US—drive it for epic panoramas!
Be ready for mountain weather and wildlife on the road (elk crossings are common!)
Arrive early (before 8 AM) or late afternoon to avoid crowded parking

🚌 Shuttle Service:
Seasonal shuttle operates on Bear Lake Road (summer through early fall)
Free and eco-friendly, it stops at popular trailheads like Bear Lake, Alberta Falls, and Glacier Gorge
Great option to skip parking hassles and reduce traffic congestion

🅿️ Parking Tips:
Parking lots fill quickly at popular spots — try to arrive early or late in the day
Overflow parking and shuttle pick-up available at Estes Park Visitor Center and Glacier Basin Campground

🚴 Biking:
Paved bike paths connect Estes Park to park entrances
Bikes allowed on roads and paved paths, but not on hiking trails
Rentals available in Estes Park if you want to explore two wheels style!

🚐 RV & Campervans:
Allowed on most park roads except Old Fall River Road (narrow gravel, one-way)
Book campgrounds early—summer fills up fast!

📱 Other Tips:
Download offline maps — cell service can be spotty
Check road and shuttle status before your visit (especially for winter closures)
Pack layers — mountain weather can change quickly!