Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most photographed national parks in the country, and for good reason. From soaring peaks reaching over 14,000 feet to sweeping valley floors and everything in between, Rocky Mountain National Park offers plenty of photographic opportunities for both the expert and novice photographer. Feel inspired by these photos of Rocky Mountain National Park.
View of Longs Peak from Trail Ridge Road
Longs Peak is the Park’s only 14,000+ foot mountain. Sitting at 14,259 feet, it can be seen from almost anywhere in the park, but some of the best views are seen from Trail Ridge Road. Climbing past treeline, Trail Ridge Road provides unobstructed views, making it one of the best places to see Longs Peak.
Rainbow Curve from Trail Ridge Road
Another one of our favorite photos of Rocky Mountain National Park is from Rainbow Curve. Rainbow Curve is a major viewpoint along Trail Ridge Road and offers beautiful views of Horseshoe Park and Fall River. The viewpoint can be found just under 13 miles from the Beaver Meadows park entrance.
Dream Lake
Perhaps one of the most popular places to photograph in Rocky Mountain National Park is Dream Lake. It can feel like a dream, especially during sunrise with the intense colors of the Alpenglow hitting the towering peaks that surround the lake.
To get to Dream Lake, begin at the Bear Lake Trailhead, found at the end of Bear Lake Road.
Sprague Lake
As you can see, you can’t go wrong with any lake view in Rocky Mountain National Park, but Sprague Lake is particularly special. The 13-acre lake creates the perfect foreground with panoramic views of the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, Notchtop Mountain, Taylor Peak, Otis Peak, and Half Mountain. Sunrise here is spectacular with the glow of the morning sun rising over the cluster of peaks.
Begin the 1-mile hike at the Sprague Lake Trailhead, located near Bear Lake Road.
Moraine Park
Moraine Park is an open golden meadow that is best known for its frequent sightings of elk herds. The large open meadow is the perfect playground for grazing and mating elk, making this one of the best places to see elk in Rocky Mountain National Park. Come in the morning where you will likely witness the morning mist rising from the Big Thompson River that cuts through the valley floor with glowing mountain peaks in the background.
Take the Moraine Park loop that encircles the out edge of the meadow for the best views. The trail is 5.5 miles long and is mostly flat, making it an easy hike.
Stay at near Rocky Mountain National Park
Whether it’s the soaring mountain peaks or the wildlife that brings you to Rocky Mountain National Park, take your vacation to the next level with a stay at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn. Just minutes away from the park, our cozy inn is just what you need for your Rocky Mountain getaway.
Our rooms offer a touch of the great outdoors mixed with modern amenities and beautiful mountain views. Choose only the best and book your stay at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn today!
