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Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Locations

We traveled to Rocky Mountain National Park and stayed for a week. We are bringing you all the great details of the locations and the best spots for photography.

OUR PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

As we drove through the winding roads of Rocky Mountain National Park, our cameras ready, we couldn’t help but compare it to the stunning Canadian Rockies. While it didn’t quite live up to that level of glory, we still photographed many breathtaking shots. The park’s landscape was a mix of rugged peaks and serene valleys, with the Continental Divide splitting through its center. We were in awe as we explored the diverse terrain, from lush forests to rocky tundra. And amidst all this natural beauty, the highlight for us was spotting majestic elk grazing peacefully in their natural habitat.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND LOCATION

The The park is at its peak visitation in summer and fall, June – September. Trail Ridge Road is open only from Memorial Day to mid-October, but the dates may vary. The crowds are thinner in early June and later September. Fall foliage starts to peak in mid-September. The yellow Aspens make for some astonishing images.

Spring can be a chance to get some new growth, or you could still be hit with a blizzard. June will vary and can be rainy. July – September. On Trail Ridge Road, it can be 15°F–20°F cooler than at the park’s lower elevations. Wildlife viewing and fishing photography are good all year, but fall has the rut when the bull elks get active. The rut plus yellow aspen and fewer humans in mid-October are ideal. 

A HIKER’S PARK

You can create dynamic, incredible landscape photography here, but plan to spend some time hiking to your chosen location to obtain your images. Many of the waterfalls and some, but not all, of the lakes are well off the beaten path. Two waterfalls are under a one-mile hike. Some waterfalls and lakes are up to 4 miles off the road. If you like to hike as much as you want to do photography, this is your park. We didn’t hike out to many of the waterfalls on this trip. Believe it or not, we’d rather do photography than go hiking.

WILDLIFE

Rocky Mountain National Park is the place for you if you are a wildlife photographer. Herds of elk and moose are one of the main attractions at this park.   There are several areas where you will see signs that it is a public elk zone. If you go in October, you will arrive during the rut when the bull elk starts to breed. Grab some fall foliage and elk shots, and you are in photography dreamland. Several areas are known for moose viewing, but it is less likely to see moose than elk.

Any photography trip here could focus on wildlife. The area near the Moraine Park Discovery Center has a lot of elk.

Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Elk
Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Overlook
Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Lake
Rocky Mountain National Park Photography town
Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Elk

THE ELK RUT

For most of the year, adult elk tend to stick with members of their same gender. But during the breeding season, called the rut, fully grown males compete for the favor of female elk and will even try to protect a group of females known as a harem. To show dominance, rival males bellow and mirror each other’s movements while pacing back and forth. This behavior allows them to assess their opponent’s antlers, body size, and fighting abilities. If neither male gives up, they engage in antler wrestling, which can result in serious injuries for either bull.

THE QUIETER SIDE 

You will most likely find moose near the Grand Lake area entrance. Of course, early morning and at their dinner time is the best time to go looking. Take a look at the image to the right. Unfortunately, we did not get a good moose picture. It was taken before we ate breakfast on the Grand Lake side of the town in the Kuawuneeche Valley, where many moose call home.

We ate at Sagebrush BBQ and Grill for dinner and liked it so much that we returned for breakfast.  Go early for any breakfast. There are lines everywhere at your quick take-out places.  Better yet, bring a thermos in your suitcase, pack your meal to go and get out there early.  Then, you don’t have to worry that the lines will hold you up. Lines were holding us up, and it was late September.

Some viewing areas are closed at night to avoid interfering with the rut. This sign says September 1 through October 31.

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ELKE VIEWING AREAS

 East side of the park:

  • Moraine Park
  • Horseshoe Park
  • Upper Beaver Meadows

West side of of the park:

  • Harbison Meadow
  • Holzwarth Meadow
  • Throughout the Kawuneeche Valley

THE ALPINE VISITORS CENTER

The majestic Rocky Mountain National Park stretched before us, reaching a high point of 11,176 feet. There was a sense of drama as we made our way to the Alpine Visitors Center. The roads snaked up the mountain, with no guard rails to protect us from the steep drop below. Despite the nerves, we couldn’t help but admire the breathtaking view of Beaver Ponds at the Great Divide, the perfect spot for stunning photography opportunities.

But it wasn’t just during the day that this park captured our attention. We knew the night sky here would be a sight, which certainly didn’t disappoint. With the Milky Way shining above us, our excitement grew as we explored more of this beautiful landscape.

However, as we ventured higher and higher into the mountains, we couldn’t ignore that our energy levels were dwindling. It wasn’t until later that we realized it may have been due to our sensitivity to altitude. One of us had experienced dizziness and vertigo after arriving by plane and waking up at such a high elevation. Yet even with this challenge, we pushed to the top of Rocky Mountain National Park for some incredible night photography at an even more staggering altitude.

HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

BEST TIME TO GO

The autumn months at RMNP offer photographers and nature enthusiasts a unique and thrilling experience. The crisp air carries a sense of anticipation as the park enters its rut season, a time of vibrant colors and bustling activity. This is the prime time for capturing the majestic elk in their element as they gather in herds and engage in impressive displays of strength and dominance. The park transforms into a playground of excitement and natural beauty, offering a photography experience like no other.

This is also a good location for photographing the Milky Way at night, so check the moon phases for optimal photography opportunities. You can still see the Milky Way during October; the last month, it’s visible during the rut season. That’s why we like October the best.

HOW LONG TO PHOTOGRAPH

Exploring every detail of the vast and beautiful RMNP would take at least two days. However, given its sheer beauty and endless photography opportunities, most people spend several more days in this captivating location.

HOW TO GET THERE

The park has two gateway communities: Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west.

By Car:

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

The park will implement a cashless payment system for all fees and transactions at entrances and campgrounds starting June 1, 2023.

POPULAR AREAS TO PHOTOGRAPH

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason—its views are breathtaking. Some of the most popular spots include:

BEAR LAKE AREA

This is a great place to photograph the park’s wildlife, including bears, elk, and deer. It also offers excellent views of the mountains.

THE MORAINE PARK AREA

This is a great place to photograph the park’s landscapes, including its alpine lakes, forests, and meadows. From here, you can also get some great views of the Rockies.

ADAMS FALLS

Adams Falls is one of the most popular photography areas within the park.  The falls are located on the Big Thompson River and are easily accessible from the main road. There are several pull-offs along the road where you can park and walk to the falls. Adams Falls is a great place to photograph both day and night. During the day, the sun illuminates the falls and creates a beautiful rainbow effect. At night, the falls are lit by spotlights, creating a stunning effect.

MILNER PASS AND POUDRE LAKE

Two of our favorites are Milner Pass and Poudre Lake. Milner Pass is located on the Continental Divide and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The area has numerous hiking and backpacking trails, so there is plenty to explore.

Poudre Lake is a gorgeous alpine lake perfect for those who love to fish so that you can get photographs of people fishing. The trail around the lake is easy to follow and makes for a great hike.

GORGE RANGE OVERLOOK AND TRAIL RIDGE ROAD

The Gore Range Overlook on Trail Ridge Road is one of the most popular areas for photography. The overlook provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests, and many visitors enjoy photographing the scenery from this vantage point.

FAR VIEW CURVE

Are you looking for a breathtaking view of Rocky Mountain National Park? Then head to Far View Curve! This popular spot is located on Trail Ridge Road and offers stunning panoramic views of the park. Be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture the beauty of this place forever.

RAINBOW CURVE

If you’re looking for a good photography spot, look no further than Rainbow Curve. This popular spot is just off the main road and offers stunning views of the mountains and valley below. Visitors can also find several hiking trails nearby, making it the perfect place to explore the park.

DEER RIDGE JUNCTION

Deer Ridge Junction is one of the most popular areas. It is known for its stunning views, abundant wildlife, and easy access to various hiking trails.

One of the most popular trails in the area is the Deer Ridge Trail, which offers hikers beautiful views of the valley below. The trail is also great for seeing various wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Another excellent option for hikers is the Emerald Lake Trail. This trail takes hikers to Emerald Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the park. Along the way, hikers will also pass by Dream Lake and Nymph Lake.

The Flattop Mountain Trail is an excellent option for a more challenging hike. This trail leads to the summit of Flattop Mountain, which offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

No matter what your hiking level, Deer Ridge Junction has a trail that’s perfect for you. So come on and enjoy all this fantastic area has to offer.

HOW TO GET TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Rocky Mountain National Park is in north-central Colorado, about an hour and a half away from Denver. To get there, take Interstate 70 west from Denver and exit at the town of Estes Park. From there, follow the park’s signs.

Place your ad here for one year. 

For our Area Information, Hotel,

and Restaurant sections.

Billed at $99 per year.

Details 

PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR LIST

  • A sturdy tripod will be vital for getting Milky Way and Waterfall shots.
  • A wide-angle lens will help you fit the majestic mountains into your frame.
  • Bring a telephoto lens and a monopod for wildlife photography to help stabilize your camera.
  • Pack plenty of extra batteries and memory cards, as you’ll likely take many photos.
  • Bring your macro lens to photograph the vast landscapes and intricate details of the surrounding nature.
  • Pack an array of filters, from UV to polarized to take the glare off the water and neutral density filters for long exposure to milky water effects.
  • Bring a spare set of fully charged batteries and extra memory cards; you never know when a perfect shot will present itself, and the last thing you want is your camera battery.

WHAT ELSE TO BRING – A PACKING LIST

  • Organic bug repellent. (Nonorganic is very toxic)
  • Organic Sun protection. (Non-organic sunscreen is a cancer cause.)
  • Durable hiking boots for any trail or terrain you may encounter.
  • Have a waterproof backpack or rain cover to protect your equipment.
  • Packaging a rain jacket and long pants.
  • A hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the elements.
  • A thermos for Milky Way photography nights.
  • Navigation tools such as a map and compass. A smartphone with a GPS app works.
  • First-aid kit
  • Knife or multi-tool
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Photography Information

Here is some basic information for your trip. You can find more detailed instructions on some of our other pages.

SURVIVAL FOOD

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WHERE TO STAY

Here are some great options.  We stayed at The Inn on Fall River.

THE INN ON FALL RIVER – STAY HERE

Book your stay here on the east side of the Park

1660 Fall River Road, Estes Park, CO 80517.,(970) 586-4118, (800) 255-4118

On the park’s east side, our favorite pick is the Inn on Falls River. It is located near the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and is the perfect setting for a memorable photography journey.

Thumbs-up Thumbs-up The Establishment Earns Our Thumbs Up

See the Inn on Fall River Pictures below.

Every room here at the Inn has special touches creating a sense of home and comfort; each room includes a wood-burning fireplace, gas grill, a private patio on the bank of Fall River, a kitchenette (including a microwave, toaster, and coffee pot), access to a shared hot tub and more. Cabin Amenities Include two bedrooms – Recently remodeled full bath – Private hot tub – Private outdoor fire pit – Wood-burning Fireplace – Gas grill on the patio – Full kitchen with gas stove, utensils, cookware, and small appliances – Riverside views of Fall River – Updated, color TVs with HBO and Disney – Towels, linens, robes for the hot tub.

COLORADO CABIN ADVENTURES CABINS

Top places to stay list. On the west side of the Park, Colorado Cabin Adventures

The west side of the park is the less-traveled side. Our cabin at Colorado Cabin Adventure, located in Grand Lake, had a fireplace and rustic accommodations.

We woke up to deer right before our finely restored rustic cabin. It is only a short walk out back, where the moose live near the pond and the lake.  We did Milky Way photography right there without even driving.  The staff is a ten on our scale. You could not get any better. Resident Manager Deborah McCord is right on location and one of the nicest people we have ever met.

Rocky Mountain National Park Lake with the sun.

Park behind Colorado Cabin Adventures – Moose are found near this lake and marshy area.

AREA INFORMATION

All you need to know.

area information - photography

ENTRANCE FEES: 

“Day Use Pass” will be $20, while the weekly pass will increase to $30; Annual Passes are $50.  The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting.

Phone:

970 586-1206
The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Mondays – Fridays; and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Saturdays – Sundays in winter. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222.

The best hotels while doing photography

COLORADO CABIN ADVENTURE

Phone: 970-509-0810
info@coloradocabinadventures.com

12082 US Highway 34
Grand Lake, Colorado 80447

The Inn on Falls River Information

GOOD CAMPING
MANOR PARK OF ESTES

Spend the night or the whole summer with them. They offer nightly, weekly, monthly and seasonal rentals.

15 – October 15.  970-586-3251.

Great location! 5 minutes to Rocky Mountain Natl Park
JELLYSTONE PARK OF ESTES
5495 US-36, Estes Park, CO 80517

Surrounded by Roosevelt National Forest, Jellystone Park of Estes is the perfect Campground and RV Park for your family to explore nature at its best!  Relax in nature, or join their planned activities for “kids” of all ages.  A variety of sites are set among towering Ponderosa pines where wildlife abounds. Weekend Pancake Breakfasts.  Pet-friendly campsites!

SEVEN PINES CAMPGROUND

HERMIT PARK OPEN SPACE
WEATHER

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