The journey from Rocky Mountain National Park to Coors Field in Denver offers a diverse experience of Colorado’s natural beauty and urban attractions. This route spans approximately 70 miles, taking travelers from high alpine tundra to the heart of downtown Denver. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, wildlife sightings, and scenic drives before reaching the iconic baseball stadium. This guide provides essential information for planning your trip, including driving routes, hiking opportunities, and points of interest.
What are the Best Scenic Routes from Rocky Mountain National Park to Coors Field?
The drive from Rocky Mountain National Park to Coors Field offers several scenic options:
- Trail Ridge Road: Known as the ‘highway to the sky’, this road is a must-drive within the park.
- Highest continuous paved road in North America
- Offers panoramic views of the alpine tundra
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Notable stops: Many Parks Curve, Alpine Visitor Center
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Highway 36: The most direct route from Estes Park to Denver.
- Passes through Boulder, offering a chance to explore this vibrant college town
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Provides views of the Front Range
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Highway 7: A more scenic alternative, known as the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.
- Offers stunning views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide
- Passes through small mountain towns like Allenspark and Nederland
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trail Ridge Road to Hwy 36 | 100 miles | 2.5 hours | Most direct, passes through Boulder |
| Trail Ridge Road to Hwy 7 | 110 miles | 3 hours | More scenic, mountain towns |
What are the Must-See Viewpoints Along the Way?
- Forest Canyon Overlook: Located on Trail Ridge Road, offering views of the park’s deepest canyon.
- Many Parks Curve: Provides a panoramic view of Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, and Estes Park.
- Longs Peak Viewpoint: Best seen from Highway 7, offering a clear view of Colorado’s most famous fourteener.
- Boulder Overlook: As you descend into Boulder on Highway 36, enjoy sprawling views of the city and plains beyond.
What Hiking Opportunities are Available Near the Route?
In Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Bear Lake Trail: An easy 0.8-mile loop around a scenic subalpine lake.
- Emerald Lake Trail: A moderate 3.5-mile round trip hike passing several alpine lakes.
- Longs Peak Trail: A challenging 14.5-mile round trip for experienced hikers only.
Near Denver:
- Red Rocks Park: Just outside Denver, offering trails with unique rock formations.
- Mount Falcon Park: In Morrison, providing trails with views of Denver and the Front Range.
How to Spot Wildlife Along the Journey?
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, especially within Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Elk: Often seen in meadows, particularly during early morning or late evening.
- Bighorn Sheep: Look for them on rocky slopes, especially near Sheep Lakes.
- Moose: Frequently spotted in willow thickets near water sources.
- Marmots: Common at higher elevations, especially near rocky areas.
Tips for wildlife viewing:
– Use binoculars or a spotting scope
– Keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife
– Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times
What are the Best Photography Spots on this Route?
- Dream Lake: A picturesque alpine lake framed by rugged peaks.
- Gore Range Overlook: On Trail Ridge Road, offering expansive mountain vistas.
- Sprague Lake: Provides a perfect reflection of the Continental Divide.
- Boulder Flatirons: Iconic rock formations visible from various points in Boulder.
- Denver Skyline: Best captured from City Park or Cheesman Park.
What Amenities are Available Along the Rocky Mountain National Park to Coors Field Route?
In Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Visitor Centers: Beaver Meadows, Alpine, and Fall River
- Restrooms at major trailheads and visitor centers
- Limited food services at Alpine Visitor Center
Along the Route:
- Estes Park: Full range of services including restaurants, gas stations, and lodging
- Boulder: Numerous amenities, including the Pearl Street Mall for shopping and dining
- Golden: Home to Coors Brewery, offering tours and tastings
At Coors Field:
- Numerous concession stands and restaurants
- Restrooms throughout the stadium
- The Rooftop: A popular gathering area with mountain views
What are the Best Times to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park and Coors Field?
Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Summer (June-August): Peak season, ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing
- Fall (September-October): Less crowded, beautiful fall colors
- Winter (December-March): Snow activities, but some roads closed
Coors Field:
- Baseball season typically runs from April to September
- Day games offer views of the mountains, while night games showcase the city lights
How to Plan a Multi-Day Trip from Rocky Mountain National Park to Coors Field?
- Day 1: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
- Drive Trail Ridge Road
- Hike a trail like Bear Lake or Emerald Lake
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Wildlife viewing in Moraine Park
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Day 2: Estes Park to Boulder
- Morning wildlife viewing in the park
- Scenic drive on Highway 7
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Explore Pearl Street Mall in Boulder
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Day 3: Boulder to Denver
- Morning hike at Chautauqua Park
- Drive to Denver
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Visit Red Rocks Park
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Day 4: Denver and Coors Field
- Explore Denver attractions (e.g., Denver Zoo, Denver Art Museum)
- Attend a Rockies game at Coors Field
This itinerary allows for a comprehensive experience of both the natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park and the urban attractions of Denver, culminating in a visit to the iconic Coors Field.
References:
1. https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
2. https://www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-scenic-byway-peak-peak
3. https://www.mlb.com/rockies/ballpark