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Rocky Mountain National Park

NATURE AND WILDLIFE
From the majestic elk to rare boreal toads, Rocky Mountain National Park protects animals of the high south-central continental divide. Elk number about 1,000 in the park, and are easily seen. Moose are more secretive, found primarily in the Kawaneeche valley. Bighorn sheep are fond of coming to mineral licks in Horseshoe Park. Mountain lions are fairly common, but as is also true of bobcats, secretive and rarely seen. Black bears thrive in Rocky Mountain National Park's lower forests. Hardy white ptarmigan remain active at higher elevations through the winter, as do pikas. Ptarmigan, snowshoe hares, and ermine blend with the season, whitening in winter. Marmots and ground squirrels sleep deeply during the winter but are easily seen during the summer.

PARK HISTORY
When Congress passed the Rocky Mountain National Park Act in 1915, the legislators focused on Rocky Mountain National Park's scenic and natural wonders. What became the park also held many cultural treasures including ancient trails, game drives, cattle ranches, and lodges. Early Superintendents tried to develop roads, backcountry cabins, and trails to blend with the surroundings. Rangers manipulated the landscape to look more "natural;" they suppressed fires, planted seedlings, and controlled predators. The National Park Service purchased private lands and removed buildings, roads, post offices, driveways, irrigation ditches, and fences. Today Rocky Mountain National Park represents a pristine alpine wonderland.

LODGING OPPORTUNITIES (Links to lodging for Rocky Mountain National Park)
Estes Park
Finding the perfect place to stay during your Estes Park vacation is easy. Rocky Mountain National Park's hometown has an amazing breadth of choices ranging from lodge rooms to full mountain home living.
The Stanley Hotel
This famous hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of Historic Hotels of America. Located only 6 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, the 16,000 square feet of meeting rooms and 138 guest rooms are a great place for a corporate or private retreat. The Stanley Hotel was also the setting for the movie "The Shining" and many people tour and stay at the hotel for that unique experience. During the winter and spring, elk and mule deer are often observed grazing on the plants and lawn around the hotel.

Lake Estes Inn and Suite
Standard rooms and family suites with kitchens, some with in-room jacuzzis. Outdoor pool, indoor hot tub, playground. AAA and AARP discounts. Convenient location, just 1 mile from Downtown Estes, 5 miles to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Lakeshore Lodge and Silverado Restaurant
Come enjoy the spectacular setting on the shores of Lake Estes. Log and stone accent this beautiful hotel and conference center. Lounge and restaurant with deck overlooking the lake and continental divide. Health center, indoor pool, saunas & hot tub.

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