Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, you absolutely can’t miss out on the epic journey that is Trail Ridge Road. Buckle up and get ready for a laid-back tour through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll ever see. We’re breaking it down mile by mile so you don’t miss a beat.

Mile 0 – Estes Park Entrance: Start your road trip at the Estes Park Entrance. Wave goodbye to civilization (for a bit) and say hello to towering pines and the promise of mountain adventures ahead.

Mile 11 – Deer Ridge Junction: Take a breather at Deer Ridge Junction. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, snap some pics of Longs Peak, and maybe spot some wildlife doing their thing in the meadows.

Mile 17 – Many Parks Curve Overlook: Pull over at Many Parks Curve for killer views of the Estes Valley and beyond. Seriously, it’s like looking at a postcard.

Mile 22 – Rainbow Curve Overlook: Keep your eyes peeled for rainbows (hence the name) at Rainbow Curve. The view of Horseshoe Park and the surrounding mountains is worth the stop.

Mile 26 – Forest Canyon Overlook: Forest Canyon Overlook offers up some serious cliffside drama. Think towering rocks and wild, untouched valleys. Nature at its most epic.

Mile 34 – Alpine Visitor Center: Time for a pit stop at the Alpine Visitor Center. Get some fresh air at over 11,000 feet, learn a bit about the area, and enjoy those breathtaking tundra views.

Mile 36 – Gore Range Overlook: Snap some Insta-worthy shots at Gore Range Overlook. Trust us, the Gore Range looks even cooler from up here.

Mile 39 – Rock Cut: Marvel at the engineering feat that is Rock Cut. The road literally cuts through solid granite. It’s like driving through the heart of the mountain.

Mile 42 – Lava Cliffs Overlook: Check out the volcanic rock formations at Lava Cliffs Overlook. It’s a geology nerd’s dream come true.

Mile 48 – Gore Range Overlook (west side): Catch one last glimpse of the Gore Range on the west side of the road as you start your descent towards Grand Lake.

Mile 52 – Grand Lake Entrance: Exit the park at Grand Lake Entrance and keep the adventure going in Grand Lake or Arapaho National Forest. There’s no shortage of fun to be had around here.

Wrap Up: Driving Trail Ridge Road is all about soaking in the views, embracing the mountain vibes, and letting the road take you on a journey. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just cruising with the windows down, this road trip through Rocky Mountain National Park is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

If you are planning on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, consider staying at one of our luxury vacation rentals:

Explore Our Properties:

Park Entrance Lodge

20 Guests • 8 Bedrooms • 5 Bathrooms

With 8 bedrooms everyone can have their own! Amazing views and amenities galore including hot tub, fire pit, pool table, game room and an indoor basketball court. We are conveniently located 1.5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park and 1.5 miles from the shopping area in Estes Park. Perfect getaway for multigenerational families and large groups.

Lake Estes Retreat

8 Guests • 4 Bedrooms • 5 Bathrooms

This artisan timber cabin is located on Lake Estes and has incredible views of the lake and mountains. Amenities include a hot tub and fire pit, plenty of outdoor space, walking path to marina and golf course! Located 10 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park!