ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK FAQ

When does Trail Ridge Road open?
The target date of Trail Ridge Road to open is Memorial Day weekend. If the park service gets it plowed prior to that date, they will usually go ahead and open it. However, it is entirely possible for it to be temporarily closed again as weather conditions demand.

When does Trail Ridge Road close for the winter?
Beginning in September, the likelihood of temporary closures due to snow increases. However, the park service usually plows the road and reopens it within a few days. By mid-October, any major winter storm may result in Trail Ridge Road being closed for the winter.

When does Old Fall River Road open?
Generally speaking, Old Fall River Road does not open until around the Fourth of July.

When does Old Fall River Road close for the winter?
Old Fall River Road is not plowed again after it is opened, so it usually closes for the winter before Trail Ridge Road. This can occur as early as late September.

What about altitude sickness?
The effects of altitude are highly individualized. Some people hardly notice it at all, while others find it quite debilitating. However, sensible precautions can lessen the chance you will experience any problems with it. First and foremost, make sure you are adequately hydrated at all times. The importance of this cannot be overstated. Secondly, allow your body time to adapt to it. Most people feel the effects to some degree for the first day or two and then adjust. It's a good idea to plan less strenuous activities during that time. Some people find abstaining from caffeine and alcohol to be helpful, too.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath and nausea. If the discomfort is pronounced, descending to a lower altitude usually helps. If they become severe, seek immediate medical attention.

I'll be camping out. Where can I get a shower?
Dad's Laundry in Stanley Village

Is there some place I can rent camping/hiking gear?
Estes Park Mountain Shop rents the following items - tents, trek/hiking poles, sleeping bags, pads, small backpacking stoves, baby carriers, backpacks, bikes, ice axes, crampons, snowshoes, x-country skis, downhill skis, tubes, sleds, winter boots, and gaiters.