Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is an amazing destination for family trips, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and exciting experiences suitable for kids of all ages. From scenic drives to ranger-led programs, the park provides plenty of options to entertain young visitors. This article explores some of the best activities for children to have fun at Rocky Mountain National Park.
Hiking is a great activity for kids in Rocky Mountain National Park. The mountains are a huge playground for kids of all ages, and there are many hiking trails to choose from. Short-term hikes like the Coyote Valley Trail or Alberta Falls Trail are best for younger children. If you’ve got elementary-aged kids, however, you can try longer hikes with a bit of elevation gain.
Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offers an unforgettable journey through the park’s diverse ecosystems. With numerous overlooks and pullouts, kids will be amazed by the spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, and alpine tundra.
Family-Friendly Hikes
One of the many family-friendly hikes in Rocky Mountains National Park is a good option for planning a family vacation. The Cub Lake hike, four and a half miles round trip, starts from the Moraine Park area and ends at Cub Lake. The Holzwarth Historic Site is also available. This mile-long hike leads to a historic homestead cabin, and a 1920s dude ranch. The Holzwarth Historic Site can be found approximately eight miles north from the Kawuneeche Visitor Center.
Hike to Alberta Falls
The hike to Alberta Falls is a relatively easy and family-friendly trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The 1.7-mile round-trip hike is suitable for kids and offers a chance to enjoy the park’s stunning scenery and spot wildlife along the way.
Wildlife Viewing
Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado offers wildlife viewing for all ages. The park offers many opportunities for children to view animals up close and the scenery is breathtaking.
Families can learn more about the history of the park and its residents while exploring it. For example, the Holzwarth Historic Site is an interpretive center that tells the story of the Holzwarth family, who emigrated from Germany. The park also features several family cabins and artifacts from their lives in the valley. The museum allows kids to try on bison robes and sunbonnets.
Rocky Mountain National Park is a great place to take your kids fishing. You’ll find several great spots in the park, including Dorsey Lake, Roaring River, Fern Lake, Ouzel Lake, and Sprague Lake. These are all great spots for fishing. However, you will need a Colorado fishing permit to catch fish.
Camping
Rocky Mountain, National Park Colorado, offers several family-friendly camping opportunities. While the most popular camping spots are outside the park, there are many great options within the park. For example, you can stay at a campground called Moraine Park, which features meadows and a feeling of being far from civilization.
You can access the campground by car, but hiking in from the parking lot is also possible. It will be difficult to get a signal in this area so plan your trip accordingly.
YMCA of the Rockies camps
Family members who want to experience summer camp in Rocky Mountain National Park will love the YMCA of the Rockies. The organization offers a variety of summer programs for kids, including classes on local wildlife and fire-building. Campers also have the option of sleeping in a cabin or taking a stroll along nature trails.
Camping in Estes Park
Estes Park has many campgrounds. Some are rustic while others are filled with creature comforts. Some examples are Elk Meadow Lodge, RV Resort, and Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park. They are all located within close proximity of the park and its many hiking trails.
Participate in the Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program is an educational and fun way for kids to learn about the park’s natural and cultural resources. Children can complete activities in the Junior Ranger booklet, attend ranger-led programs, and earn a special badge as a memento of their visit.
Explore Moraine Park Discovery Center
The Moraine Park Discovery Center is an interactive visitor center that provides educational exhibits, hands-on activities, and ranger-led programs for kids. Children can learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history through engaging displays and activities.
Visit the Holzwarth Historic Site
The Holzwarth Historic Site is a preserved homestead that offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the Rocky Mountain National Park area. Kids will enjoy exploring the historic cabins and learning about the daily lives of the families who once called this place home.
Go Wildlife Watching
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and marmots. Kids will love the opportunity to spot these animals in their natural habitat, and parents can teach them about the importance of respecting and preserving the park’s wildlife.
Attend a Ranger-led Program
Ranger-led programs are an excellent way for families to learn about the park’s unique features and ecosystems. These educational programs cover topics such as wildlife, geology, and cultural history, and often include hands-on activities that engage kids and inspire their curiosity.
Enjoy a Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors at one of the park’s many designated picnic areas. Kids will love eating surrounded by the park’s beautiful scenery and can burn off some energy by playing in the nearby meadows or exploring the nearby trails.
Conclusion
Rocky Mountain National Park offers families an unparalleled opportunity to explore the beauty and wonder of the great outdoors. With activities such as hiking to waterfalls, participating in the Junior Ranger Program, and attending ranger-led programs, kids will have an unforgettable experience in this incredible national park. Plan your family vacation to Rocky Mountain National Park and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Olivia is the Editor in Chief of Laienhaft – a website dedicated to all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Olivia has you covered.
