Looking for non-hiking activities in Rocky Mountain National Park?. RMNP is the crown jewel of Colorado’s raw beauty, welcoming over 4.5 million visitors annually. From majestic mountains like Longs Peak, the highest point in the park, to alpine meadows and sparkling lakes, a wealth of natural features awaits in this north-central Colorado gem. And the best part? Less than an hour and a half drive from Denver, making it accessible for everyone, including families and non-hikers, to enjoy a memorable day trip!
With more than 350 miles of trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiking haven that caters to all levels of hikers. However, the park’s diverse ecosystems offer many non-hiking experiences – there is something for everyone year-round, even for non-hikers. So, if you are not a hiker, don’t sweat it; from driving the scenic Trail Ridge Road to joining a ranger program and even kayaking on the tranquil Grand Lake, you can do many fun things there.
Non-Hiking Activities in Rocky Mountain National Park
Take A Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road
A view of Rocky Mountain National Park from Trail Ridge Road. Photo credit: Michael Kirsh from Unsplash
There are many scenic drives in Rocky Mountain National Park, and Trail Ridge Road is the most picturesque. At 12,183 ft, it’s also the highest national park paved drive in the US. The 48-mile road winds through the middle of Colorado’s most visited national park, connecting the towns of Grand Lake and Estes Park.
If you haven’t driven this scenic byway, you are missing out; it is the best way to experience the dramatic Continental Divide without going through miles of strenuous hikes. You’ll enjoy some of the park’s best scenery and several stops and viewpoints, including Beaver Pond, Many Parks Overlook, and Forest Canyon Overlook. You can access the road through the Beaver Meadows Entrance or the Fall River Road.
Tip: There is no better time to drive this road than late evenings – sunsets on the Continental Divide are an adventure you don’t want to miss.
Discover Stunning Views and Relax at Lily Lake
The scenic and peaceful Lily Lake. Photo credit: G. Yancy from Flickr
Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park’s east portion, the picturesque Lily Lake is a peaceful haven and a playground for nature lovers. It is conveniently located near Estes Park and makes a perfect adventure for families with kids. The Lily Lake Loop is among Rocky Mountain’s most leisurely hikes.
It’s more of a walk that circles the lake, granting stunning views of the lake and the surroundings. There are many incredible picnic areas in Rocky Mountain National Park, and Lily Lake is one of them. It is never that crowded, making it a great spot to unwind and bask in tranquility while connecting with nature. You can drive 6.3 miles south from downtown Estes Park on Colorado 7 to the Lily Lake parking area.
Also read: Everything to Know About Hiking Mount Kenya National Park
Breathtaking Views await at Bear Lake
A beautiful view of Bear Lake. Photo credit: Colton Sturgeon from Unsplash
Located at 9,450 feet above sea level, Bear Lake is among the highest lakes in the park, but doesn’t require much of a hike to get to. Encircled by the nearly 0.7-mile Bear Lake Trail, the lake boasts fascinating views. Enjoy the Alpine Lake, Hallett Peak, and Continental Drive scenery. If you don’t mind stretching your legs further, take a left to Nymph Lake, Dream, and Emerald Lake, which range between easy and moderate.
Tip: Unlike Lily Lake, this one gets crowded. I wouldn’t drive my car to the trailhead. Take the shuttle instead.
Enjoy Wildlife Viewing in the Meadows
An elk in Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo credit: Christian Collins for Flickr
Yes, you can watch wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park without hiking. You can see wild animals almost anywhere in the park. Visit in September and October, the rutting season, and look for elk in the meadows in the park’s eastern portion. Head to Horseshoe Park, a scenic lowland meadow, to see animals like elk, mule deer, coyote, moose, and bighorn sheep. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views of the Mummy Mountain Range from the park. Moraine Park and Kawuneeche Valley are other impressive wildlife locations to look for. The Upper Beaver Meadows is one of the best places for birdwatching in Rocky Mountain National Park without hiking.
Discover the Beauty and Tranquility of Grand Lake on a Kayak
The pristine waters of Grand Lake. Photo credit: inkknife_2000 (7.5 million views +) from Wikimedia Commons
Surrounded by majestic peaks and scenic landscapes, Grand Lake is the park’s western gateway and one of the lakes to explore in Rocky Mountain National Park without hiking. The western entrance is known to have fewer crowds than the main entrance, so you can enjoy the many opportunities for outdoor recreation that Grand Lake has in store.
One of TripAdvisor’s “Top Things to Do” perfectly blends spectacular natural scenery and adventurous water activities. Kayaking is one of the best ways to take in the lake’s beauty and tranquility; whether you are a seasoned paddler or a beginner, you’ll enjoy unforgettable experiences. Visit between late Spring and early fall, when the weather is perfect, with summer being the most popular season.
Take in the Rocky Mountain’s Scenery on Horseback
Horseback riding in Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo credit: Carol M. Highsmith from Wikimedia Commons
Hate going through a strenuous trek? You can go horseback riding in Rocky Mountain National Park. A scenic horseback ride through the park is one of the non-hiking activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a unique way of discovering and appreciating its rugged beauty.
There are more than 260 miles of trails, and you can choose from free experiences to guided excursions that can last anywhere between two and 10 hours. There are multiple stables to explore, with one, Glacier Creek Stables, located within the park. The stable allows you to take in the scenery with elevation ranging from 8,688 ft to 12,00 ft. Plus, free park access and timed entry are guaranteed!
Ride The Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Riding the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. Photo credit: Kyla Duhamel from Flickr
Nestled just south of Estes Park’s town center, this aerial tramway is one of the best non-hiking activities for kids in Rocky Mountain National Park. Since it’s outside Rocky Mountain, you don’t need a national park pass to access it. Riding this tramway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience of Colorado’s wilderness. It whisks you to the summit of Prospect Mountain, where sweeping views of Continental Drive, Longs Peak, and Estes Park await. There are endless ways to enjoy the raw beauty of the Rockies, but riding this historic tramway will knock your socks off!
Tip: We recommend bringing a picnic basket for an unforgettable sightseeing experience of the mountain and its surroundings. Soak in the beauty of this place all day, or ride back when you feel like it.
Join A Ranger Program
Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo credit: National Archives and Records Administration from Wikimedia Commons
Not an avid hiker? You can take advantage of the many ranger-led programs in Rocky Mountain National Park. Discovering the history and nature of the park through these programs, which are open and free to the public, is both fun and educational. Exploring the park with kids? This is another one of the non-hiking activities for families in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Have them sign up to become junior rangers so they can take part in discovery activities. Whether you are interested in learning about ice fishing, one of the best non-hiking winter activities in Rocky Mountain National Park, identifying wildlife tracks, or plant identification, there are multiple experiences to uncover with Rocky Mountain National Park’s ranger-led programs.
Where To Stay
Nestled at the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Della Terra Mountain Chateau uniquely blends breathtaking natural scenery, European flair, and luxury. The Chateau, which boasts fourteen lavish suites, includes picturesque architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning mountain views. Amenities include see-through fireplaces, a theater room, a sauna, a library, and more.
Conclusion
Hiking remains the most popular activity in Rocky Mountain National Park, meaning hikers have more outdoor fun options than any other adventure seeker. Still, creating unforgettable memories is achievable, even for non-hikers. All it takes is understanding other available activities and preparing well beforehand. Have fun exploring some of the best non-hiking activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. Don’t forget to put these 8 tips for becoming a respectful traveler while exploring Colorado’s crown jewel.
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