Living Near the Mountains

Traveling is a passion of mine. When I visit a new location whether it is a new city, state, or country I always try to do something new. I am adventurous; I will try anything, at least once. My new adventure has been that I recently moved to Colorado Springs. I am still going to travel to other states, because it is a goal of mine to visit all 50 states but the great thing about Colorado is that there is so much to do within the state that I live in. From Colorado Springs to the entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park is around an hour and forty-five minutes depending on traffic. (Side note — do not try to head to the park and leave the park during rush hours. We left there around 4:30, getting us stuck in the 5 o’clock traffic — adding an extra hour to our drive home.) If you are lucky enough to live in Colorado or visit here, I highly recommend staying near Estes Park or Boulder.

When we plan to go visit the park we know it will be a full day, everything you want in an adventure is at Rocky Mountain National Park. Countless trails to hike, numerous vehicle pull offs to capture spectacular views. IT IS BREATH-TAKING!! Also, it is dog-friendly. (That is a big plus for us.)

The coolest thing about Rocky Mountain National Park (especially during the fall) is that at the bottom you are able to hike little trails with nice weather, and enjoy a picnic while taking in the views of the mountains.

BUT…

Head to the top and you get snow and views that look magical. (Side note — every season at the Rockies are wonderful but I would recommend going during the Fall because you get those Fall colors, as well as being able to drive to the peak of the mountain and get this...)

During the late Fall and Winter, the snow will be too much for you to be able to get to the very top. During the Summer, the views are still amazing but during the Fall you get those Fall colors that make it even better to look at. Also during the Summer, it is the park's busiest time. So if you go during the Fall you won’t run into as many people in the park.

Living only an hour and forty-five minutes from views like this made us purchase a yearly pass.

Fee and Pass Information below:

All passes are available at all park entrance stations.

1-Day Pass – Automobile – $20.00

1-Day Pass – Per Person – $10.00

1-Day Pass – Motorcycle – $20.00

7-Day Pass – Automobile – $30.00

7-Day Pass – Per Person – $15.00

7-Day Pass – Motorcycle – $25.00

Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Pass – $60.00

Rocky Mountain National Park/Arapaho National Recreation Area Annual Pass-$70.00

*Can be purchased online