A Romantic Rocky Mountain Vacation in Colorado
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As you make your way through this part of the state, you'll find terrific high country hiking, all kinds of wonderful wildlife, and vibrant forests and meadows.
We'll start in Denver, and go northwest to Estes Park, and then into Rocky Mountain National Park. This Rocky Mountain vacation could be completed in a few days, but a week would give you a more relaxing getaway in the Rockies. First, let’s cover a few need-to-knows about holidays in this part of the rocky Mountains in Colorado.
When's the best time to Visit the Rocky Mountains? In general, you’ll be able to cover more ground and see more of Colorado in the summer. Trail Ridge Road is open only June to mid-October, and there are greater choices available for accommodation and dining in surrounding areas during the summertime.
Any weekend from mid June to mid August can be very busy, especially on the highways leading out of Denver. A great time to visit is September, especially after Labor Day. Winter driving conditions can make Colorado’s mountain country treacherous.
Keep in mind however that snow can fall in Colorado's highest elevations even in summer! Also, prepare for strong winds as you climb above the tree line. Denver – Estes Park3 places to begin or extend your romantic Colorado vacation before/after traveling to Rocky Mountain National Park are:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park is a spectacular place, with majestic snow capped peaks, awesome alpine tundra and wildlife in its natural surroundings. Entrance fee for vehicles: $15
First order of the day: pick up some hiking info from the Visitor Center, just past the park entrance. The backbone of the park is the Trail Ridge Road (Hwy 34), a high altitude 50 mile roadway that winds around snowfields, glaciers, lakes and waterfalls.
The scenic views here are just amazing! Sweeping vistas of peaks, meadows, forests and meadows. While crossing the continental divide, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including elk, moose and bighorn sheep.
As you might expect on a popular road like this, you won’t be alone. The park attracts several million visitors each year. But with a little foot work, you can find some wilderness solitude, and really experience the exhilarating feeling of the high country.
The key is to hike the many trails leading away from the road. There are lots of marked hiking paths, varying in length and difficulty. Bear Lake Nature Trail has a good choice of walks. Also worth checking out are the trails up to Twin Sisters Peaks.
Keep in mind the higher elevation – if you become fatigued or short of breath, relax and slow down. Drink plenty of water, and find some shade too. It may be helpful to descend in altitude as well.
The trails on the west side of the park tend to be less crowded. The Colorado River Trail is full of wildlife and takes you to the old ghost town of Lulu City. The 1 km East Inlet trail, just east of Grand Lake, leads to the impressive Adams Falls.
There are 5 visitor centers located throughout the park that contain hiking and trail information.
Romantic Tip: Your Rocky Mountain vacation should include at least one evening together watching the sun go down.
And while you’re at it, wait for the night sky – it’s amazing! With no “light pollution” from nearby cities or streets, you’ll be awed by just how many stars you can see! Bring along a blanket and a thermos of hot chocolate – highly romantic! Rocky Mountain Vacation: CampingCamping in the wilderness can make for a great romantic trip! There are 5 campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park. Each is easily accessible by car.
The number of sites, months of operation, elevation, facilities and price of each varies. It is very advisable to make reservations well in advance for the Moraine Park and Glacier Basin campsites. You can do it by calling 800-365-2267. The other camps are first-come-first-serve. Rocky Mountain Vacation Resorts
If you prefer a little more pampering on your Rocky Mountain vacation, there’s some nice romantic choices here.
These properties are in Estes park, just east of the park entrance. Tahara Mountain Lodge is a log and stone Bed & Breakfast lodge high up on a plateau overlooking the mountains. Suites or rooms have excellent views. Also has a pool, hot tub, lounge and bar. Click Here for more details on this romantic lodge.
The Comfort Inn Estes Park offers good accommodation at a more budget price. It’s open yearly April through October.
High on the eastern slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is the
Stanley Hotel
, a beautiful white-pillared 4 story heritage building dating back to 1909. Traditional or deluxe rooms available, along with fine dining and dancing.
These are good options, as there are no hotels or cabins in Rocky Mountain National Park itself. Click Here for info and deals on more romantic lodging in Estes Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain Vacation: Getting ThereDenver is the closest major airport, and is well served by many carriers. United Airlines has a major hub here.
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The sunsets in Colorado are spectacular for two reasons: over 300 sunny days a year, and the high altitude. Try to linger a while after sunset and watch the fading colors bathe the surrounding canyons, rocks and trees.