What's the most visited place in Colorado?
Colorado is a state full of natural beauty, with its towering mountains, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. And when it comes to the most visited place in Colorado, there's no contest - it's Rocky Mountain National Park. Spanning over 415 square miles, Rocky Mountain National Park attracts millions of visitors each year, and it's not hard to see why.
In this blog post, we'll dive into what makes Rocky Mountain National Park so special, from its stunning landscapes to its abundant wildlife. We'll also provide some tips for planning your visit and making the most of your time in this incredible destination.
Why Rocky Mountain National Park?
There are plenty of reasons why Rocky Mountain National Park is the most visited place in Colorado. For one, the park boasts some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the country. With peaks rising over 14,000 feet, visitors can explore alpine tundras, dense forests, and roaring waterfalls.
Rocky Mountain National Park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and black bears. The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 280 species of birds recorded within its boundaries.
What to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
With so much to explore in Rocky Mountain National Park, it's important to plan your visit ahead of time. One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking, with over 355 miles of trails to choose from. Some of the most popular hikes include the Emerald Lake Trail, the Bear Lake Trail, and the Flattop Mountain Trail.
If you're not up for hiking, there are plenty of other ways to experience the beauty of the park. The Trail Ridge Road is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also take a guided wildlife tour, go fishing in one of the park's many streams, or simply relax and take in the scenery.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. Summer is the busiest season, with the park seeing the most visitors from June to August. However, this is also the best time for hiking and other outdoor activities.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. These seasons offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it easier to enjoy the park's natural beauty without feeling rushed or crowded.
When planning your visit, be sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance, as the park can get very busy during peak season. And don't forget to pack appropriate clothing and gear for your chosen activities, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.