Rocky Mountain National Park Guided Small Group Tour
4.9 / 5 · 493 traveler reviews
Explore towering alpine peaks, high-elevation tundra, abundant wildlife, and Colorado’s most celebrated national park—all in one expertly guided day. Begin in Boulder, framed by the iconic Flatirons, before traveling through the foothills to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Enjoy a stop at the historic Stanley Hotel before continuing into the park, where alpine forests and lakes, summer wildflowers, golden aspens in fall, and abundant wildlife create an ever-changing landscape. Watch for elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, moose, marmots, and other native species along the way. Your professional guide brings the scenery to life with engaging stories about the park’s history, geology, flora, and fauna. From scenic overlooks and alpine valleys to the heights of Trail Ridge Road, (in the winter, sections of road are closed, and we make alternative stops) experience sweeping Continental Divide views and dramatic alpine scenery before returning through the foothills.
Your experience
Stop 1
The Flatirons are rock formations near Boulder, Colorado, consisting of flatirons. There are five large, numbered Flatirons ranging from north to south along the east slope of Green Mountain.
Stop 2
Boulder is a city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. To the west, the trail-lined Flatirons are craggy rock formations overlooking the city. The University of Colorado Boulder campus is home to the Fiske Planetarium and the Museum of Natural History, with zoology and anthropology exhibits.
Stop 3
Hidden in the gently rolling foothills of Colorado is the small town of Lyons an under-the-radar adventure destination and the unofficial “Double Gateway to the Rockies.” For decades, thousands of people have passed through the small town en route to the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, which can be accessed via two scenic 30-minute routes that begin in Lyons.
Stop 4
Built directly into a massive granite boulder, officially St. Catherine of Siena Chapel is one of Colorado’s most distinctive small landmarks, combining nearly a century of history with a setting that draws visitors of all faiths passing through on their way to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Stop 5
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the country's most visited parks. Inside the Park, 110 peaks reach as high as 11,000 feet in altitude, including the celebrated Longs Peak, which boasts a height of 14,260 feet. The beautiful scenery in this area can be viewed by car or on foot. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can also anticipate seeing a broad range of birds and animals in their natural habitat, as well as other unforgettable sites.
Stop 6
Trail Ridge Road is the most popular route among tourists and interestingly, filled with scenic stops in the Park. i
Stop 7
The Fall River Visitor Center offers one of the largest retail spaces in Rocky Mountain National Park, with an extensive selection of souvenirs, gifts, apparel, and locally inspired merchandise. Inside, you’ll also find engaging exhibits that highlight the park’s geology, wildlife, and high-alpine ecosystems—making it both a shopping destination and an educational stop.
Stop 8
Estes Park is a town in northern Colorado. It’s known as a base for the Rocky Mountain National Park, home to wildlife including elk and bears, plus miles of trails.
Stop 9
Stanley Hotel, famous for its inspiration of the book and movie “The Shining. Some time in 1974, horror writer Stephen King and his wife Tabitha spent one night at the Stanley Hotel. At the time, King was struggling with Darkshine as the working title of his latest project.
What’s included
- Bottled water
- Small Group Transportation 15 Passenger Van
- Entrance fees
- Professional Driver/Guide
- Lunch
Not included
- Gratuities (15%-18% recommended)
- Government fees
Meeting and pickup
The meeting point is in front of Lucky’s Bakehouse (NOT the market). Please arrive by 9:35 AM; pickup is 9:40–9:50 AM. TEXT 720-556-6164 at least 48 hours prior to confirm Boulder pickup. If we don't confirm, don't assume it's noted. If you're not there by 9:35 AM, we will NOT WAIT.
The meeting point is in front of the Blue Bear sculpture, outside the main entrance of the Colorado Convention Center.
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- **LUNCH INCLUDED** - This tour comes with a choice of a Turkey + Swiss, Turkey + Pepper Jack, Roast Beef + Provolone, Turkey & Roast Beef (no cheese), Tuna Salad, Gluten-Free Salad, Gluten-Free Bar and Fruit. Please send us a message via Viator/Tripadvisor with your lunch preference for all travelers in your group otherwise if we don't hear from you, a turkey sandwich will be provided.
- **MEETING LOCATION** - Colorado Convention Center, in front of Blue Bear sculpture
- Guests Ages 8+ No children under 8 unless it has been authorized by tour operator.
- Subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to weather conditions, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Small group tour in 15 passenger van.
- Recommend clothing layers for cooler temperatures and inclement weather.
- Guests who will be using an assistive device such as a scooter or walker, please contact us prior to your tout to ensure our vehicle has accommodating space.
- For nearby Convention Center Parking visit spothero website and type in the Convention Center address 700 14th St
- This is an sightseeing tour, NOT a hiking tour.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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