Trail Ridge Road: Map & Itinerary for Driving Rocky Mountain Nat’l Park
If you only have time for one scenic drive in Rocky Mountain National Park, make it Trail Ridge Road. This epic high-altitude route climbs above the trees and stays there, delivering nonstop views of jagged peaks, alpine tundra, and dramatic drop-offs. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring drives in any U.S. national park—and one you’ll remember forever.
Known as the "Highway to the Sky," Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. It crosses the Continental Divide at over 12,000 feet and links the park's east and west sides, offering a true Rocky Mountain experience in a single drive.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Trail Ridge Road: must-see stops, seasonal closures, driving tips, suggested itineraries, and how to make the most of your time.
What is Trail Ridge Road?
Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile scenic route through Rocky Mountain National Park that stretches from Estes Park (east side) to Grand Lake (west side). It climbs from montane forests into subalpine and alpine zones, topping out at 12,183 feet near Fall River Pass.
This drive is perfect for first-time visitors, road trippers, and anyone who wants to experience a wide range of the park’s ecosystems without a long hike. You can explore waterfalls, pullouts, overlooks, visitor centers, and short trails right from the road.
Trail Ridge Road is also part of U.S. Highway 34 and is sometimes called the "Scenic Byway of the Clouds."
Overview of the Route
Here’s a general breakdown from east to west:
1. Estes Park to Many Parks Curve
Scenic meadow views and elk sightings
Deer Ridge Junction: access to Bear Lake Road or US-36
Many Parks Curve Overlook: great photo stop
2. Many Parks Curve to Alpine Visitor Center
Rainbow Curve Overlook
Forest Canyon Overlook
Rock Cut and Tundra Communities Trail (great short hike above 12,000 feet)
Trail Ridge Summit (12,183 ft)
Alpine Visitor Center (restrooms, shop, exhibits, food)
3. Alpine Visitor Center to Grand Lake
Gore Range Overlook
Milner Pass (Continental Divide crossing)
Fairview Curve Overlook
Kawuneeche Valley: moose sightings and access to Colorado River Trail
Grand Lake: charming mountain town and park gateway
Trail Ridge Road Map
(Trail Ridge Road map coming soon! We’ll include a custom map that marks major overlooks, rest areas, visitor centers, and connecting trailheads. Check back or download our full guide for early access.)
Key tips:
No gas stations inside the park; fill up before entering.
Alpine Visitor Center is your best bet for food/restrooms.
Bear Lake Road is a spur road near the east end—combine the two if you have time!
Cell service is limited, especially in high elevation and remote stretches—download offline maps ahead of time.
When is Trail Ridge Road Open?
Trail Ridge Road typically opens in late May and closes for the season by mid-October, depending on snowpack. Portions of the road above 11,000 feet can see snow year-round.
It’s best experienced in late June through September, when the entire route is open and wildflowers are blooming.
Pro tip: Always check road status before your trip on the NPS website or by calling the park info line. Snowstorms can temporarily close the road even in midsummer.
Winter access is limited: the road is only plowed up to Many Parks Curve (from the east) and the Colorado River Trailhead (from the west).
1-Day Trail Ridge Road Itinerary
Starting in Estes Park (East to West):
Enter RMNP via Beaver Meadows Entrance Station
Stop at Many Parks Curve Overlook—panoramic views
Stretch your legs at Rainbow Curve Overlook
Hike the Tundra Communities Trail (0.6 mi one way)—a high-altitude tundra walk
Visit Alpine Visitor Center—break for lunch/snack, enjoy the views
Take in views at Gore Range and Fairview Curve
Look for moose in Kawuneeche Valley
End in Grand Lake—grab a bite, walk along the lake, or explore the town
Optional detours:
Bear Lake Road: Add scenic lakes and trailheads on the east side (requires timed-entry reservation).
Colorado River Trail: On the west side, take a peaceful hike along the headwaters of the Colorado River.
Driving Times & Distances
Estes Park to Alpine Visitor Center: 22 miles / ~1 hr (without stops)
Alpine Visitor Center to Grand Lake: 26 miles / ~1 hr
Estes Park to Grand Lake (full drive): 48 miles / ~2 hrs total
Rainbow Curve to Alpine Visitor Center: 11 miles / ~30 min
Kawuneeche Valley segment: 10 miles / ~20–30 min (moose watching often adds time!)
Expect slowdowns for wildlife, congestion, and road work. It’s not a drive to rush—plan for 4–5 hours with stops.
FAQs: Trail Ridge Road
What is Trail Ridge Road?
It’s a 48-mile scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park, reaching 12,183 feet in elevation.
Is the road paved?
Yes—it’s fully paved and maintained by the National Park Service.
Can RVs drive Trail Ridge Road?
Yes, but drivers should be cautious on steep grades and narrow turns. Max length is 40 ft for single vehicles.
When is it open?
Typically late May to mid-October. Snow closes the upper portion during the rest of the year.
How long does it take to drive?
About 2 hours without stops, but plan 4–5 hours with overlooks, hikes, and wildlife viewing.
Can you do it in one day?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best single-day experiences in the park.
What are must-see stops?
Alpine Visitor Center, Rainbow Curve, Forest Canyon Overlook, Tundra Communities Trail, Kawuneeche Valley.
Where can I stop for food or restrooms?
Alpine Visitor Center is the main hub. Grand Lake and Estes Park also have dining options.
Are there hiking trails along the route?
Yes! Some great short options include Tundra Communities Trail and Alpine Ridge Trail. For longer hikes, try Ute Trail (above treeline) or Colorado River Trail (more forested and flat).
What wildlife can you see?
Moose (west side), elk (east side), marmots, pika, and bighorn sheep near higher elevations.
What’s the best direction to drive it?
East to west offers a dramatic climb into the alpine. But either direction is stunning!
Any safety tips?
Watch for altitude sickness above 10,000 ft. Stay hydrated, take it slow, and bring layers—it can be 30–40°F cooler at the summit than in town. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so drive earlier in the day.
Do I need a timed-entry reservation?
Yes, if entering Rocky Mountain National Park between late May and mid-October, you’ll need a timed-entry permit. Trail Ridge Road is part of the "Park Access" permit. Bear Lake Road requires a separate one.
Final Tips & Travel Resources
Trail Ridge Road is a bucket-list drive you won’t forget—whether it’s your first time in RMNP or your tenth. Go early, take your time, and bring layers (yes, even in summer). Don’t forget sunscreen and plenty of water at altitude.
Want more help planning your visit? Grab our Rocky Mountain National Park Travel Guide—it’s full of insider tips, suggested itineraries, and seasonal highlights.
Happy Travels!