Yay!! Check the schedule, for timing. https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
This site has a menu! Look for it - many jewels are to be discovered!
If you got here via my CT Hiker Info website, here's a link to return to the CT Hiker Info website
In Google Maps, search for:
Start "Union Station, Denver, CO 80202"
End "Estes Park, Colorado 80517"
There is an option to ride the FF1 bus, to Boulder, and ride the ESTES PARK bus from Boulder
Bus routes take about 2h10m (times may vary)
The ESTES PARK bus and the Estes Park Shuttle bus stop is at the Estes Park Visitor Center
Take the Estes Park Shuttle Bus around the park
NOTE: Check the park's website, for details on access to park and reserving shuttle tickets
Reservations are required at RMNP and those can be made at their site.
2023: The required timed entry permits run from May 26 through October 22 and there are two options to choose from in the park.
Thunder Lake Trail https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/thunder-lake.htm
Travel + Leisure magazine named the Thunder Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park as the best trail in Colorado.
“In Rocky Mountain National Park, you can’t do better than hiking to the Lion Lakes, a surreal chain of alpine pools. Take the Wild Basin Trail or Thunder Lake Trail — the former is more challenging at 11 miles — to see these exquisite pools,” the magazine’s site said.
https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/biking.htm
Key things to note (as of 2023-06-28)
Each bicyclist is required to have a "per person" entrance pass or be covered under an annual or lifetime pass, which covers the owner and up to three additional cyclists. Passes require photo identification to verify ownership.
A timed entry permit is not required for visitors entering the park by bicycle.
1-Day Per Person Entrance Pass - $15.00
Valid for date of purchase. Applies to walk-ins, bicycles, and non-commercial groups. Purchasing at the park's entrance stations? Credit/debit cards only. Visitors with cash only may purchase park entrance passes from the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store located at Beaver Meadows, Fall River, or Kawuneeche Visitor Centers.
Rules of the Road
In Rocky Mountain National Park, federal law requires that cyclists ride single file at all times. Riding abreast is prohibited.
Cyclists should stay to the right side of the road.
Cyclists must obey posted speed limits and all traffic laws and signs.
On roads open to motor vehicles, bicycles must ride in the same direction of travel as other vehicles.
During sunset, sunrise, and other periods of low visibility, cyclists must ride with a white light or reflector that is visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and with a red light or reflector visible from at least 200 feet to the rear.
E-bikes are allowed anywhere in the park where vehicles are allowed.
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is a paved highway that crosses the park from east to west. Elevations range from 7,800–12,183 feet, with 11 miles above treeline (see elevation profile below). Road shoulders are narrow, guardrails are few, and some drop-offs are steep. Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road remain open to bicycles April 1 to November 30 (except during maintenance and emergency closures). However, the road is only maintained and regularly patrolled from Memorial Day weekend until the first major snow in mid-autumn; use at your own risk. When Old Fall River Road is open to vehicles, bicycles must travel in the same direction as traffic, which is uphill/westbound only.
Other Park Roads
Bicycles are prohibited on the Grand Ditch Road and on all trails except for a two-mile segment of the East Shore Trail near Grand Lake. E-bikes are prohibited on the Grand Ditch Road and on all trails including the East Shore Trail.
Bicycles and e-bikes are permitted on all roads open to motor vehicles (paved and dirt) unless otherwise posted. Roads are narrow with few or no shoulders and no designated bicycle lanes, so ride with care.
After autumn road closures:
Endovalley Road, High Drive, Upper Beaver Meadows Road, and all park campgrounds (closed loops) are OPEN to bicycles.
Fern Lake Road, Wild Basin Road, and Twin Sisters Trailhead Access Road are CLOSED to bicycles.
Safety Tips
Safety is your responsibility. Cycle at your own risk.
Ride Early
In summer, get an early start. After 10 am, roads become congested, and the chance of accidents increases. After noon, dangerous thunderstorms and lightning are common.
Be Prepared for Steep and Narrow Roads
Park roads are consistently narrow, steep, and winding. Road shoulders are narrow and not designed to accommodate cyclists. There are few guardrails and many steep drop-offs.
Watch Out for Drivers
In summer, roads are congested. Many drivers aren't used to driving in the mountains and may be driving rented oversized vehicles or pulling trailers. Drivers might be watching the scenery and wildlife rather than the road. Pay extra attention, watch for extended side-view mirrors, and don't assume that drivers know how to share the road.
Be Prepared for Mountain Weather
Park roads traverse altitudes up to 12,000 feet (3,650 m). Alpine weather conditions can change quickly and dramatically. Cold temperatures, gusty winds, frequent thunderstorms, and hail are likely, and even snow is possible. Lightning is extremely dangerous, especially above treeline.
Wear the Right Clothing and Gear
See and be seen: wear high-visibility clothing. Bring extra layers and waterproof outerwear. Wear a helmet, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Always Carry Food and Water
It's easy to get dehydrated in Rocky's dry climate and high elevations. Carry and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help prevent altitude sickness. Water may be available at park visitor centers. Trail Ridge Store is the only place to buy food, bottled water, and sports drinks and is only open in summer.
Remember: You're at Altitude
At high altitude, each breath contains less oxygen. If you are not acclimatized, exercise might be more difficult. Consider planning a less ambitious ride than you would at home. If you begin to experience symptoms of acute mountain sickness like headaches, rapid pulse, nausea, loss of appetite, lack of energy, and general malaise, do not go any higher. Descend to ride another day.
Don't Count on Cell Phones
Cell service is non-existent in many locations in this rugged park. Stay with your group. Let someone know your plans.