Introduction
Spanning more than 415 square miles of majestic wilderness, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From its soaring alpine peaks and diverse wildlife to pristine lakes and serene meadows, RMNP offers visitors a remarkable opportunity to reconnect with nature. Spending a week here means immersing yourself in a range of landscapes, tackling iconic trails, and preparing adequately to make the most of your adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a casual day hiker, RMNP has something to offer. Planning a full week allows for a deep dive into the park’s unique regions, from the alpine tundra above treeline to the lush valleys teeming with wildlife. This comprehensive guide will walk you through an ideal week-long itinerary, highlight the must-do hikes, provide insider tips, and outline essential gear for an unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
Base Camp: Estes Park
Begin your trip in the charming mountain town of Estes Park, the eastern gateway to RMNP. At an elevation of 7,522 feet, it’s the perfect place to acclimate to the altitude before tackling more strenuous hikes.
Activities:
- Explore downtown Estes Park: Check out local boutiques, coffee shops, and art galleries.
- Visit the historic Stanley Hotel: A stunning Colonial Revival building with ties to Stephen King’s “The Shining.”
- Stock up on supplies and trail snacks at local outfitters and grocery stores.
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with mountain views.
Tip: Drink plenty of water, eat light, and avoid alcohol or strenuous activity to help your body adjust to the altitude. Symptoms like mild headaches or shortness of breath are common and usually resolve with rest.
Day 2: Bear Lake Corridor
This area is the most accessible and iconic part of the park. It offers a variety of trail options, scenic beauty, and excellent photo opportunities.
Hikes:
- Bear Lake Loop (0.6 miles, easy): A paved trail perfect for families and those looking for a relaxed stroll. The lake reflects Hallett Peak beautifully in the early morning.
- Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes (3.6 miles round trip, moderate): Travel past three increasingly beautiful alpine lakes, each offering a unique backdrop and a chance to spot marmots and pika.
- Lake Haiyaha (4 miles round trip, moderate): Tucked away off the main route, this lake is surrounded by massive boulders and features stunning turquoise water due to glacial silt.
Tip: Arrive early (by 7 AM) or use the park shuttle to access the Bear Lake area due to limited parking, especially in summer months.
Gear:
- Lightweight daypack with water and snacks
- Trekking poles for stability
- Layered clothing: mornings are cool, afternoons warm, and sudden storms can hit anytime
Day 3: Trail Ridge Road and Alpine Tundra
Experience the park from above the treeline on one of the most breathtaking drives in the country.
Scenic Drive:
- Trail Ridge Road (open late May to October): The highest continuous paved road in the U.S., topping out at 12,183 feet, offers jaw-dropping panoramas, steep drop-offs, and the chance to see marmots, ptarmigan, and big-horned sheep.
Stops and Short Hikes:
- Alpine Visitor Center: Learn about the delicate tundra ecosystem and grab a hot drink or souvenir.
- Tundra Communities Trail (1 mile round trip): A short hike on a paved trail through windswept tundra; interpretive signs explain how life survives in this harsh environment.
- Forest Canyon Overlook: Offers panoramic views of deep canyons carved by glaciers thousands of years ago.
Tip: Be mindful of elevation. Headaches, nausea, and fatigue are signs of altitude sickness. Take breaks, hydrate, and descend if symptoms persist.
Gear:
- Windbreaker or down jacket (wind chill can be severe)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV exposure is intense at high elevations)
- Hat and gloves, even in summer
Day 4: The Mummy Range Adventure
Escape the crowds and explore the northern part of the park, known for its rugged beauty and solitude.
Hike:
- Ypsilon Lake (9 miles round trip, moderate to strenuous): The trail climbs steadily through forest and meadows, culminating in a stunning alpine lake beneath Ypsilon Mountain and Chiquita Peak. The area is quiet, remote, and perfect for solitude seekers.
Wildlife Spotting:
- Deer and elk are common. With luck and patience, you may see moose near the lakes or beaver ponds. Carry a telephoto lens or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Tip: Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can roll in quickly and be dangerous at higher elevations. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Gear:
- Hydration bladder or bottles (2+ liters)
- High-calorie snacks and lunch (trail mix, energy bars, jerky)
- First-aid kit and emergency blanket
- GPS or map and compass (cell service may be unreliable)
Day 5: Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge
Arguably one of the most stunning hikes in RMNP, Sky Pond offers a dramatic alpine landscape with lakes, waterfalls, and towering cliffs.
Hike:
- Sky Pond (9.4 miles round trip, strenuous): Begin at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and pass Alberta Falls, The Loch, and Timberline Falls. The final ascent involves scrambling up a waterfall. The reward is Sky Pond, a serene lake surrounded by the jagged spires of the Cathedral Peaks.
Tip: Be prepared to get your feet wet near Timberline Falls. Start by 6 AM to avoid the crowds and thunderstorms. This trail is very popular and gets busy quickly.
Gear:
- Grippy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Waterproof jacket and extra socks
- Camera or phone with good battery life and storage
- Trail map and plenty of water
Day 6: Wildlife Watching and Leisure
After several days of challenging hikes, take it slow and enjoy some of the park’s more relaxed offerings.
Early Morning:
- Moraine Park or Horseshoe Park: These valleys are prime elk-viewing spots, especially during the fall rut (Sept-Oct), when males bugle and spar.
Leisure Activities:
- Picnic by Sprague Lake: Accessible and peaceful, this is a great spot to relax with a view.
- Fly-fishing in the Big Thompson River: Purchase a Colorado fishing license and try your luck at catching native trout.
- Horseback riding: Several local outfitters offer guided rides into the park for a unique perspective.
Tip: Early morning and dusk are the best times for wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars and maintain a safe distance. Feeding wildlife is prohibited and dangerous.
Gear:
- Camp chair or blanket for relaxing
- Lightweight binoculars
- Sun hat, sunscreen, and bug spray
- A good book or nature journal
Day 7: Longs Peak or Chasm Lake
Cap off your trip with a challenging hike to one of the park’s most dramatic destinations.
Options:
- Chasm Lake (8.8 miles round trip, strenuous): A breathtaking lake at the base of Longs Peak, offering panoramic views and a quieter experience than the summit.
- Longs Peak via Keyhole Route (15 miles, very strenuous): This is a serious alpine climb requiring rock scrambling, route-finding skills, and early (midnight or 1 AM) start times. Only for experienced hikers with good weather.
Tip: Always check trail conditions at the Ranger Station. Bring extra food, water, and layers. Never attempt Longs if storms are in the forecast.
Gear:
- Headlamp with fresh batteries (required for pre-dawn starts)
- Gloves and thermal layers
- Helmet (optional but recommended on Longs)
- Detailed topo map, compass, or GPS
- Electrolyte tabs or drinks
Essential Gear Checklist
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (avoid cotton)
- Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
- Waterproof outer shell (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
- Hiking socks (merino wool recommended)
- Convertible hiking pants or shorts
Footwear:
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in prior to trip)
- Camp shoes or sandals for relaxing at the end of the day
Backpack Essentials:
- Trail map, compass or GPS unit
- Water (bottle or bladder)
- High-calorie snacks and lunch
- First-aid kit with blister care items
- Pocketknife or multitool
- Emergency whistle and reflective gear
Extras:
- Bear spray (not usually necessary but helpful in remote areas)
- Lightweight stove or Jetboil for backcountry meals
- Power bank for charging phones or GPS
- Field notebook and pen
- Trash bag for packing out all waste
Park Tips and Etiquette
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels and crumbs.
- Stay on Trails: Venturing off-path can damage fragile tundra and increase erosion.
- Wildlife Distance: Keep at least 75 feet from elk and deer, and 120 feet from bears and moose. Never approach or feed wildlife.
- Permits: Required for overnight backpacking and some areas. Book online well in advance.
- Weather Awareness: Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent in summer. Be off exposed ridges and peaks by noon.
- Campfires: Allowed only in designated areas. Always fully extinguish fires.
- Dogs: Not allowed on most RMNP trails. Kennel services are available in Estes Park.
Final Thoughts
Spending a week in Rocky Mountain National Park offers more than just a vacation – it provides a soulful connection to some of the most awe-inspiring wilderness in North America. With the right preparation, a flexible mindset, and a love for the outdoors, your adventure in RMNP will leave you with memories (and photos) to last a lifetime.