{
    "componentChunkName": "component---src-templates-markdown-content-js",
    "path": "/destinations/usa/co/Rocky-Mountain-National-Park-Itinerary/",
    "result": {"data":{"mdx":{"body":"var _excluded = [\"components\"];\n\nfunction _extends() { _extends = Object.assign || function (target) { for (var i = 1; i < arguments.length; i++) { var source = arguments[i]; for (var key in source) { if (Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty.call(source, key)) { target[key] = source[key]; } } } return target; }; return _extends.apply(this, arguments); }\n\nfunction _objectWithoutProperties(source, excluded) { if (source == null) return {}; var target = _objectWithoutPropertiesLoose(source, excluded); var key, i; if (Object.getOwnPropertySymbols) { var sourceSymbolKeys = Object.getOwnPropertySymbols(source); for (i = 0; i < sourceSymbolKeys.length; i++) { key = sourceSymbolKeys[i]; if (excluded.indexOf(key) >= 0) continue; if (!Object.prototype.propertyIsEnumerable.call(source, key)) continue; target[key] = source[key]; } } return target; }\n\nfunction _objectWithoutPropertiesLoose(source, excluded) { if (source == null) return {}; var target = {}; var sourceKeys = Object.keys(source); var key, i; for (i = 0; i < sourceKeys.length; i++) { key = sourceKeys[i]; if (excluded.indexOf(key) >= 0) continue; target[key] = source[key]; } return target; }\n\n/* @jsxRuntime classic */\n\n/* @jsx mdx */\nvar _frontmatter = {\n  \"type\": \"Destination\",\n  \"title\": \"The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary (2 Days)\",\n  \"banner\": \"./skypond2.jpg\",\n  \"categories\": \"USA CO\",\n  \"tags\": [\"US National Parks\"],\n  \"affiliate\": true,\n  \"pins\": [\"rmnpitinerary-01.png\", \"rmnpitinerary-04.png\", \"rmnpitinerary-02.png\"],\n  \"related\": [\"Things-to-do-in-Silverthorne-CO\", \"Denver-Weekend-Itinerary\"],\n  \"description\": \"Learn how to spend 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer! This guide includes hiking, scenic drives, food in Estes Park and more.\"\n};\n\nvar makeShortcode = function makeShortcode(name) {\n  return function MDXDefaultShortcode(props) {\n    console.warn(\"Component \" + name + \" was not imported, exported, or provided by MDXProvider as global scope\");\n    return mdx(\"div\", props);\n  };\n};\n\nvar TOC = makeShortcode(\"TOC\");\nvar layoutProps = {\n  _frontmatter: _frontmatter\n};\nvar MDXLayout = \"wrapper\";\nreturn function MDXContent(_ref) {\n  var components = _ref.components,\n      props = _objectWithoutProperties(_ref, _excluded);\n\n  return mdx(MDXLayout, _extends({}, layoutProps, props, {\n    components: components,\n    mdxType: \"MDXLayout\"\n  }), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Rocky Mountain National Park is an incredible Colorado destination full of snowy mountain peaks, a variety of wildlife, world class hiking trails and panoramic views. It\\u2019s one of the most popular national parks and is definitely a place that every national park enthusiast should visit.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"After multiple visits to Rocky Mountain National Park, I\\u2019ve put together the guide on how to spend 2 days inside the park. This guide is great if it's your first time visiting the national park and if you're a hiker that wants to experience some of the some beautiful trails in the Rocky Mountains.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(TOC, {\n    mdxType: \"TOC\"\n  }), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"reservations-in-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#reservations-in-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"reservations in rocky mountain national park permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Reservations in Rocky Mountain National Park\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Rocky Mountain National Park \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086910\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"requires a reservation\"), \" to visit between May 26 and October 22, 2023.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"There are two types of reservations: Access to Bear Lake Road (which includes access to the rest of the park) and access to the rest of the park. Reservations for Bear Lake Road access are needed between 5 AM and 6 PM, while they are only needed for the rest of the park between 9 AM and 2 PM.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"60% of the reservations go on sale about a month in advance. For example, all July reservations go on sale at 8 AM MDT on June 1st. The other 40% of reservations go on sale at 5 PM the day prior to entry.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"While the reservations go pretty quickly, I didn\\u2019t have any trouble getting reservations at 5 PM the day before while visiting in summer 2022.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"There is a $2 fee for each reservation and they must be made online. Make sure to have an offline or printed copy to show at entry, you may not have cellular data in the park.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"75%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A lake surrounded by pine trees and mountains in the distance. Several logs are laying in the water.\",\n    \"title\": \"Nymph Lake\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/c2601/nymph.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/5e8f5/nymph.jpg 208w\", \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/8d0ef/nymph.jpg 416w\", \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/c2601/nymph.jpg 832w\", \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/9a8cd/nymph.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/25339/nymph.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/a79f5fef7bae4dc7552b475afcb9583f/d2602/nymph.jpg 4032w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Nymph Lake\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"when-to-visit-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#when-to-visit-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"when to visit the rocky mountains permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"When to Visit the Rocky Mountains\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"You can visit Rocky Mountain National Park year round, but you\\u2019ll have a very different experience in the winter vs the summer. During the winter, some areas of the park are closed and the park gets a lot of snow. If you choose to hike, you\\u2019ll need to assess avalanche danger and be prepared with microspikes and other winter gear. Make sure to plan ahead to stay safe!\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Note that the snow lingers well into May and June as well. If you want to visit the park without worrying about snow, you should visit from July to September. This is the most crowded time to visit, but it\\u2019s worth it if you\\u2019re not used to snowy hiking conditions.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"how-to-get-to-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#how-to-get-to-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"how to get to the rocky mountains permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"How to Get to the Rocky Mountains\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"To reach Rocky Mountain National Park, you\\u2019ll want to fly into Denver and rent a car. The drive typically takes about an hour and a half and you\\u2019ll want to take U.S. Route 36 from Lyons to Estes Park.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"tips-and-things-to-know-before-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#tips-and-things-to-know-before-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"tips and things to know before visiting rocky mountain national park permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Tips and Things To Know Before Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park\"), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"leave-no-trace-in-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#leave-no-trace-in-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"leave no trace in the rocky mountains permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Leave No Trace in the Rocky Mountains\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"It is so important to leave no trace when you visit Rocky Mountain National Park! Here are some ways to do that:\"), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Pack out all of your trash. This includes biodegradable items such as orange peels. It also includes human waste. Use the provided bathrooms when you can and use a WAG bag on the trail if you can\\u2019t wait. The bacteria levels of water have increased in popular areas in recent years, so do your part to pack it out.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Check current conditions from the visitor center or recent trail reviews before heading out on the trails. Depending on the time of year, there may be snow and ice on the trails. If there is, you should hike with microspikes and trekking poles.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Please never feed or approach wildlife. That includes chipmunks, marmots, elk, moose and any other wildlife you see. They are not necessarily able to digest human food and this can encourage them to approach humans, get hit by cars, bite people or even be euthanized. Unfortunately, I saw visitors feeding chipmunks at Emerald Lake.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Never carve on a rock or a tree. Take a photo to capture your memories instead! It is so sad to see the amount of trees that have been carved near Bear Lake.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Respect those around you by following trail etiquette. This includes keeping your voices down, yielding to uphill hikers and stepping aside if a hiker behind you may want to pass. Help make everyone\\u2019s visit to Rocky Mountain National Park enjoyable!\")), mdx(\"div\", {\n    className: \"side-by-side\"\n  }, mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAbABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDAQT/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAfRmwzdwXN9JB//EABoQAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhESIUH/2gAIAQEAAQUCwqbo0zsVCSKTGjJYj0//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAEDAQE/AR//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAg/9oACAECAQE/AR//xAAdEAACAQQDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQEQICExMkFx/9oACAEBAAY/AjEM0jk/RHVIdv8A/8QAHhAAAwABBAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFBUXEQgZH/2gAIAQEAAT8hn0KEugthRx7INQ4FuHFNS4botV9DI+CGm26TB0pmx+H/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEPPNwv/EABgRAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEh/9oACAEDAQE/EGaVH//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEf/aAAgBAgEBPxAr/8QAHRABAAMAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFx8P/aAAgBAQABPxBqKzAKQXDqpavFLHahfDu++Y9aB4E+soyC7oD5LB2us7EbiiiiyOWGitivf4gyxNO4KB0Em2vOzjCf/9k=')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A orange marmot seen along the Lake Haiyaha Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park.\",\n    \"title\": \"A marmot\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/c2601/marmot.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/5e8f5/marmot.jpg 208w\", \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/8d0ef/marmot.jpg 416w\", \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/c2601/marmot.jpg 832w\", \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/9a8cd/marmot.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/25339/marmot.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/fd5b8a5de737d81b00f728270c18e903/9568a/marmot.jpg 3024w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"A marmot\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"Lydia and Joe standing in front of the aqua, blue water of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park.\",\n    \"title\": \"Lake Haiyaha\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/c2601/aqua.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/5e8f5/aqua.jpg 208w\", \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/8d0ef/aqua.jpg 416w\", \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/c2601/aqua.jpg 832w\", \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/9a8cd/aqua.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/25339/aqua.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/e7b868a4c970abd5bf4c9169d55f0944/7e5bc/aqua.jpg 2883w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Lake Haiyaha\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"figcaption\", null)), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"more-tips-for-visiting-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#more-tips-for-visiting-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"more tips for visiting the rocky mountains permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"More Tips for Visiting the Rocky Mountains\"), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"The Rocky Mountains are located at a high altitude. If you are not used to it, it\\u2019s common to experience altitude sickness. Signs of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and shortness of breath. Some ways to help prevent it include taking your time on the trails, drinking a lot of water and avoiding alcohol.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer and lightning can be very dangerous when you\\u2019re in exposed areas at high elevation. Do not hike if the forecast calls for a storm.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"There is very little cell reception inside the Rocky Mountains. Download offline maps and use a physical map to get around.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"The \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"https://guidealong.com/tour/rocky-mountain-national-park/?afmc=LOSTLYDIA&utm_campaign=LOSTLYDIA&utm_source=leaddyno&utm_medium=affiliate\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"GuideAlong Audio tour\"), \" is a great thing to listen to as you drive around the park. The app will teach you about the park and its history, as well as suggesting scenic stops along the way. It\\u2019s a great asset to purchase and have downloaded ahead of time.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Rocky Mountain National Park requires a $30 per day or $35 per week vehicle fee to enter. This is in addition to the timed reservation. If you will be visiting multiple national parks over the year, you\\u2019ll get a lot of value out of the \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&website_id=1e3d97cc-28f8-45ff-882b-b703ad48859c&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F234584%2Famerica-the-beautiful-pass-20242025\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"America the Beautiful Pass\"), \", which gets you into most national parks for a year for $80.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"If you\\u2019re hiking, you should come prepared with proper hiking shoes and other essential items including a first aid kit, plenty of water, a headlamp and more. Check out my \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/tips/hiking/Beginner-Hiker-Tips/\"\n  }, \"beginner hiker\\u2019s guide\"), \" for more details to get started!\")), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-one\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-one\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"rocky mountain national park itinerary day one permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary: Day One\"), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"hike-to-emerald-lake-and-lake-haiyaha\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#hike-to-emerald-lake-and-lake-haiyaha\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"hike to emerald lake and lake haiyaha permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Hike to Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Begin your first day in the park in the Bear Lake Corridor and enjoy some of the most popular trails in the park. Even though reservations are required, the Bear Lake parking lot may fill up during part of the day and the trails will likely be crowded. Therefore, I recommend getting the earliest reservation time (5AM to 7AM) and entering before 6AM. Or you can even enter before 5AM if you really want to avoid the crowds!\"), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"Tip:\"), \" You also have the option to take a \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/shuttle-buses-and-public-transit.htm\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"shuttle to the trailhead\"), \" - this is great if you don\\u2019t want to get up early! You can park at the Park & Ride area and the shuttles leave to go to Bear Lake every 10-15 minutes.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"66.82692307692307%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A view of Emerald Lake when it is partially frozen. Jagged, mountain peaks are located directly across the lake.\",\n    \"title\": \"Emerald Lake\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/c2601/emerald.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/5e8f5/emerald.jpg 208w\", \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/8d0ef/emerald.jpg 416w\", \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/c2601/emerald.jpg 832w\", \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/9a8cd/emerald.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/25339/emerald.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/7133866b8bb7c3e95ddfb06cd4f90ced/857b3/emerald.jpg 6000w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Emerald Lake\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"When you arrive and get parked, there are several lakes to hike to depending on your interest, time and abilities. If you\\u2019re up for it, I recommend hiking to both \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://alltrails.pxf.io/ZQjQEW\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Lake Haiyaha and Emerald Lake\"), \", which will be 5.2 miles total. Along the way, you\\u2019ll pass Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. Plus, you can see Bear Lake right next to the trailhead.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"I recommend visiting Emerald Lake first because it\\u2019s more popular. This lake is absolutely stunning and you\\u2019ll get to enjoy an incredible backdrop with mountain peaks. Then, you\\u2019ll backtrack to Dream Lake and turn left to follow the trail up to Lake Haiyaha.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Lake Haiyaha is a gorgeous lake surrounded by large boulders. On your way up to Lake Haiyaha, there is a nice viewpoint looking out into the valley. Note that the final ascent to the lake is prone to avalanches, so you should avoid hiking this in the winter months. There are also some large boulders to climb around to get right next to the water.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"66.82692307692307%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A view looking down at Lake Haiyaha, which is a bright, green color.\",\n    \"title\": \"Lake Haiyaha\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/c2601/haiyaha.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/5e8f5/haiyaha.jpg 208w\", \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/8d0ef/haiyaha.jpg 416w\", \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/c2601/haiyaha.jpg 832w\", \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/9a8cd/haiyaha.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/25339/haiyaha.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/53522a4df55e6e29036e5b03b65bb4e4/857b3/haiyaha.jpg 6000w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Lake Haiyaha\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"The hike to both Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha has about 1,000 total feet of elevation gain. The worst of the elevation gain takes places going up to Lake Haiyaha. Make sure to bring plenty of water, along with snacks, a map and the other necessary hiking essentials.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"All of the lakes that you\\u2019ll visit on this hike make it a highly rewarding experience! The alpine landscape is incredible and this area is one that every hiker should explore at least once.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"drive-trail-ridge-road\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#drive-trail-ridge-road\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"drive trail ridge road permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Drive Trail Ridge Road\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"After an early morning on the trails, rest your legs with a bucket-list scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains on Trail Ridge Road. This is the highest paved road in North America and reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet. There is no shortage of incredible views along the way!\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"The road is subject to seasonal closures and typically fully opens Memorial Weekend until the end of fall. If you\\u2019re visiting before that, you may be able to visit the first couple of overlooks but not drive the entire thing.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"I highly recommend the \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://guidealong.com/tour/rocky-mountain-national-park/?afmc=LOSTLYDIA&utm_campaign=LOSTLYDIA&utm_source=leaddyno&utm_medium=affiliate\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"audio app GuideAlong\"), \" to listen to while you\\u2019re making this drive. The app will teach you about the park and discuss the various viewpoints along the way!\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"75%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A windy road leading through some giant, rock formations along Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park.\",\n    \"title\": \"The alpine section of Trail Ridge Road\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/c2601/trailridgeroad.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/5e8f5/trailridgeroad.jpg 208w\", \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/8d0ef/trailridgeroad.jpg 416w\", \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/c2601/trailridgeroad.jpg 832w\", \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/9a8cd/trailridgeroad.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/25339/trailridgeroad.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/f5bf6b76d18739076b042ab114962c8e/d2602/trailridgeroad.jpg 4032w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"The alpine section of Trail Ridge Road\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Here are \", mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"10 stops to make on Trail Ridge Road\"), \" (listed in order from Estes Park to Grand Lake). Most of these are scenic viewpoints. The trails I\\u2019ve listed are relatively short and easy.\"), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Many Parks Curve Overlook: One of the first scenic vistas on Trail Ridge Road is Many Parks Curve. This overlook provides a panoramic view looking at several meadows framed by mountains.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Rainbow Curve: Rainbow Curve is right about when you\\u2019ll start to notice the trees thinning out as you enter into the alpine tundra. You\\u2019ll have views here of the Alluvial Fan, Deer Mountain and more.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Tundra Communities Trailhead: This short \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"https://alltrails.pxf.io/B0d0k4\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"1 mile trail\"), \" is a great way to see the alpine landscape up close. Along the way, you\\u2019ll see some really neat rock formations (like mushroom rocks, which are similar to hoodoos) and have some amazing viewpoints of the area. The trail is rated easy and was one of my favorite stops on Trail Ridge Road.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Lava Cliffs: The Lava Cliffs are a quick viewpoint where you\\u2019ll get to observe a rare section of volcanic rock inside the Rocky Mountains. The Lava Cliffs are from lava flow that occurred around 28 million years ago.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Gorge Range: Gorge Range is a fantastic place to get a clear view of the mountains. You\\u2019ll get a great view of Longs Peak (the highest peak in the park!)\")), mdx(\"div\", {\n    className: \"side-by-side\"\n  }, mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"Lydia sitting on interesting rock formations along on Tundra Communities Trail.\",\n    \"title\": \"Tundra Communities Trail\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/c2601/alpinet.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/5e8f5/alpinet.jpg 208w\", \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/8d0ef/alpinet.jpg 416w\", \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/c2601/alpinet.jpg 832w\", \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/9a8cd/alpinet.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/25339/alpinet.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/61c3fd00c1186144028b0267e7b58577/93719/alpinet.jpg 4000w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Tundra Communities Trail\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A view of alpine landscapes and mountains in the distance along Trail Ridge Road.\",\n    \"title\": \"Alpine Ridge Trail\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/c2601/tundra.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/5e8f5/tundra.jpg 208w\", \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/8d0ef/tundra.jpg 416w\", \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/c2601/tundra.jpg 832w\", \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/9a8cd/tundra.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/25339/tundra.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/b3f4f15d3536e3cbe7ca8bbf84b933da/9568a/tundra.jpg 3024w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Alpine Ridge Trail\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"figcaption\", null)), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Alpine Visitor Center: Don\\u2019t miss a stop at the visitor center during your drive on Trail Ridge Road! This is the highest elevation visitor center in the US. There are two buildings here and you\\u2019ll find a cafe, shop, exhibits and rangers whom you can ask questions. There is also a \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"https://alltrails.pxf.io/zNmNO7l\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"short trail\"), \" that leads to a fantastic viewpoint of the area and a great look at the alpine landscape. The trail is about a half mile but includes steps and a somewhat steep climb.\")), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"Tip:\"), \" Take extra care to stay on the trail in the alpine areas. The plant life here is very fragile!\"), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Medicine Bow Curve: The Medicine Bow Curve is a beautiful mountain viewpoint that faces North. Down below, you\\u2019ll be able to see the Cache la Poudre River flowing through the valley.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Milner Pass: At Milner Pass, there is a sign for the continental divide. This is the line that divides drainage from the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans. Some incredible longer hikes begin here as well.\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Holzwarth Historic Site: The Holzwarth Historic Site is an easy place to walk around and learn about a historic site inside the park. This was a homestead purchased by the Holzwarth family in 1917. It was then home to a Dude Ranch that was primarily used for fishing retreats. Today, some RMNP staff live there and you can walk among a few historic buildings.\")), mdx(\"div\", {\n    className: \"side-by-side\"\n  }, mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAbABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAABAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAADAQL/xAAXAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQID/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHfYPMk2FNH8q2ihz4r/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERMiAxQx/9oACAEBAAEFAuxZmgjPxlmrNSLcTwUZsoSQkf/EABcRAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABERD/2gAIAQMBAT8BmxH/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARETEv/aAAgBAgEBPwHZqpzL/8QAGhABAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAExEBFBIf/aAAgBAQAGPwJbqnFNxbcvIQrH/8QAHBABAAMBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWFx/9oACAEBAAE/IQLRr9gStzVIor4Qu5FFn2Qw+TaBnMgd3EReIY4gBhP/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEBv48P/EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESH/2gAIAQMBAT8QspG4gf/EABoRAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEVEhkeH/2gAIAQIBAT8QSUQoSyOXDWun/8QAHhABAQADAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFRYUFxgcH/2gAIAQEAAT8QEhq2gcrIbOHMSRsMYaweIktTv15wcmvaRxcEDfjCjY1a/qcjknihrSvlzsc+v7hJDuPZoJzBoAes/9k=')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"Yellow wildflowers in the Coyote Valley area of Rocky Mountain National Park.\",\n    \"title\": \"Yellow wildflowers in the Coyote Valley area of Rocky Mountain National Park.\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/c2601/flowers.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/5e8f5/flowers.jpg 208w\", \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/8d0ef/flowers.jpg 416w\", \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/c2601/flowers.jpg 832w\", \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/9a8cd/flowers.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/25339/flowers.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/713452a7b689863ac7195d7755bcb74a/9568a/flowers.jpg 3024w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  }))), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A stream in the Coyote Valley area along Trail Ridge Road.\",\n    \"title\": \"A stream in the Coyote Valley area along Trail Ridge Road.\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/c2601/coyote.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/5e8f5/coyote.jpg 208w\", \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/8d0ef/coyote.jpg 416w\", \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/c2601/coyote.jpg 832w\", \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/9a8cd/coyote.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/25339/coyote.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/54bb4e240192cc2b4eeec604f3c21926/9568a/coyote.jpg 3024w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  }))), mdx(\"figcaption\", null, \"Coyote Valley\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, \"Coyote Valley: The Coyote Valley trail is a 2 mile hike that follows along the Colorado River. It\\u2019s a wide and flat accessible trail and a great area to see elk and moose.\")), mdx(\"p\", null, \"There are also additional stops that I haven\\u2019t listed. You can pick your own adventure based on your interests and how much time you have!\"), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"Tip:\"), \" It may be much colder at the higher elevation part of Trail Ridge Road. Bring warm layers even in the summer!\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"dinner-in-estes-park\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#dinner-in-estes-park\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"dinner in estes park permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Dinner in Estes Park\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Return to Estes Park for dinner after a day of adventure. Here are some places I recommend for casual dining in Estes Park. I love Nepal\\u2019s Cafe for curry dishes, Antonio's Real New York Pizza for wings and pizza or The Barrel, a beer garden that often has food trucks parked outside.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"Tip:\"), \" If you\\u2019re looking for a fun evening activity, take a night time ghost tour of the Stanley Hotel and keep an eye out for anything paranormal.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-two\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-two\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"rocky mountain national park itinerary day two permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary: Day Two\"), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"hike-to-sky-pond\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#hike-to-sky-pond\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"hike to sky pond permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Hike to Sky Pond\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"If you\\u2019re able, I recommend spending the day doing a longer day hike that will allow you to explore deeper into the national park.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"If it\\u2019s your first time in the park, \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://alltrails.pxf.io/nL6LVa\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Sky Pond\"), \" is a great place to start. This epic 8.6 trail leads to a gorgeous lake surrounded by mountains. The journey there includes waterfalls, other lakes and stunning mountain views. It\\u2019s a challenging but fun trail to see more of the Rocky Mountains.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"68.26923076923077%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"Lydia sitting next to Sky Pond. There are various drifts of snow along the mountainside.\",\n    \"title\": \"Sky Pond\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/c2601/skypond.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/5e8f5/skypond.jpg 208w\", \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/8d0ef/skypond.jpg 416w\", \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/c2601/skypond.jpg 832w\", \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/9a8cd/skypond.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/25339/skypond.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/3186f6c11216b176ca04e11ea88b4d82/c42b6/skypond.jpg 5854w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Sky Pond\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Begin the trail from either the Bear Lake parking area or Glacier Gorge. Note that Glacier Gorge has a much smaller parking lot so it\\u2019s hard to get a spot. The distance is about the same either way.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"About a mile into the hike, you\\u2019ll see Alberta Falls. This is a 30-foot waterfall that cascades into a narrow gorge. You\\u2019ll be hiking along Glacier Creek, where the waterfall comes from, for this portion of the trail.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"3 miles into the trail, you\\u2019ll reach Loch Lake. It\\u2019s a beautiful lake surrounded by some forested areas, making it a nice place to stop for a snack. After Loch Lake, the trail gets steeper.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Next, you\\u2019ll hike above the tree line and across an exposed, rocky area. At 4 miles into the hike, you\\u2019ll reach a rock scramble where you'll essentially be climbing a waterfall, Timberline Falls.\"), mdx(\"div\", {\n    className: \"side-by-side\"\n  }, mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"Lydia standing in front of Sky Pond. The mountain in the background is partially covered in snow.\",\n    \"title\": \"Sky Pond\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/c2601/skyp.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/5e8f5/skyp.jpg 208w\", \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/8d0ef/skyp.jpg 416w\", \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/c2601/skyp.jpg 832w\", \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/9a8cd/skyp.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/25339/skyp.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/167ac265275049cdc52d0ea1a4163b9d/3acf0/skyp.jpg 2000w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Sky Pond\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"133.1730769230769%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A rocky area along the trail leading up to Sky Pond.\",\n    \"title\": \"Part of the scramble up to Sky Pond\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/c2601/scramble.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/5e8f5/scramble.jpg 208w\", \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/8d0ef/scramble.jpg 416w\", \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/c2601/scramble.jpg 832w\", \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/9a8cd/scramble.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/25339/scramble.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/5f954551a1c63b87e19a7f66b57bbfd6/9568a/scramble.jpg 3024w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Part of the scramble up to Sky Pond\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"figcaption\", null)), mdx(\"p\", null, \"You will need to use your hands as you climb about a 100 feet and your feet may get a little bit wet. It is really important to have proper hiking shoes with good grip for this portion of the trail (and the entire hike). And if you\\u2019re uncomfortable, make sure to stay safe and do not proceed. Remember that it\\u2019s easier to climb up than down.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"At the top of the scramble, you\\u2019ll reach Lake of Glass. This is a small and beautiful lake, but it\\u2019s not the one you\\u2019re after. Continue on just a quarter mile further to reach Sky Pond.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"The views are worth the climb to the top. This alpine lake has an elevation of 10,900 feet, has a greenish color and is surrounded by large rock faces on 3 sides. Celebrate your accomplishment with a packed lunch (but be sure to pack it out) and make sure to be extra careful as you make your way back down.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Other Rocky Mountain National Park day hikes on my bucket list include Chasm Lake (8 miles) and Mount Ida (9.4 miles). Both are rated hard, be sure to do your research before you attempt.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"sprague-lake\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#sprague-lake\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"sprague lake permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Sprague Lake\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"If you\\u2019re looking for an easy stop as you make your way out of the park, make a quick stop at Sprague Lake. It\\u2019s a beautiful spot to watch the sunset, spot moose or just take in the views of another lake with a backdrop of trees and mountains.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"66.82692307692307%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"A view of Sprague Lake with a reflection of a mountain and trees.\",\n    \"title\": \"Sprague Lake\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/c2601/spragu.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/5e8f5/spragu.jpg 208w\", \"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/8d0ef/spragu.jpg 416w\", \"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/c2601/spragu.jpg 832w\", \"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/9a8cd/spragu.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/7bca198eb46fe1e657531f90dbfe7102/0047d/spragu.jpg 1620w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Sprague Lake\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"The Sprague Lake Trail is flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. There is a half mile loop that goes around the lake.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"After two epic days of hiking and exploring, spend another evening out in Estes Park or drive back to Denver to catch your flight.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"where-to-stay-when-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#where-to-stay-when-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"where to stay when visiting rocky mountain national park permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Where to Stay When Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park\"), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"camping-in-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#camping-in-the-rocky-mountains\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"camping in the rocky mountains permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Camping in the Rocky Mountains\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"There are multiple options for camping inside the Rocky Mountains. On the east side of the park, you can choose from the \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/agcg.htm\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Aspenglen\"), \", \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/gbcg.htm\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Glacier Basin\"), \" and \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/lpcg.htm\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Longs Peak\"), \" campgrounds. On the west side of the park, you can stay at the \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/tccg.htm\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Timber Creek Campground\"), \".\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"Longs Peak is the only first come first served campground in the park and typically opens mid-summer. It also has limited spots and requires tents only.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"For the others, you\\u2019ll want to check when reservations go on sale and book early, as reservations go quickly.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"In my opinion, Aspenglen offers the best location but it is also smaller than the others so may be difficult to snag a reservation at.\"), mdx(\"h2\", {\n    \"id\": \"hotels-and-cabins-in-estes-park\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h2\",\n    \"href\": \"#hotels-and-cabins-in-estes-park\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"hotels and cabins in estes park permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Hotels and Cabins in Estes Park\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"If you want to stay in a hotel or cabin, there are so many options in Estes Park. Estes Park is located right outside of the park and a convenient location for easily driving back and forth. It\\u2019s also full of restaurants, shops and other activities.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"figure\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figure\",\n    \"style\": {}\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-wrapper\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"display\": \"block\",\n      \"marginLeft\": \"auto\",\n      \"marginRight\": \"auto\",\n      \"maxWidth\": \"832px\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"span\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-background-image\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"paddingBottom\": \"66.82692307692307%\",\n      \"position\": \"relative\",\n      \"bottom\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\",\n      \"backgroundImage\": \"url('data:image/jpeg;base64,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')\",\n      \"backgroundSize\": \"cover\",\n      \"display\": \"block\"\n    }\n  }), mdx(\"img\", {\n    parentName: \"span\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-image\",\n    \"alt\": \"The exterior of the famous Stanley Hotel. The hotel is white with a red roof and has a large porch. There is a statue of a man leading on a pillar directly in front of the hotel.\",\n    \"title\": \"Stanley Hotel\",\n    \"src\": \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/c2601/stanley.jpg\",\n    \"srcSet\": [\"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/5e8f5/stanley.jpg 208w\", \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/8d0ef/stanley.jpg 416w\", \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/c2601/stanley.jpg 832w\", \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/9a8cd/stanley.jpg 1248w\", \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/25339/stanley.jpg 1664w\", \"/static/2bf79aa71ca6667fc630bec975ed1cba/b9bac/stanley.jpg 5889w\"],\n    \"sizes\": \"(max-width: 832px) 100vw, 832px\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"width\": \"100%\",\n      \"height\": \"100%\",\n      \"margin\": \"0\",\n      \"verticalAlign\": \"middle\",\n      \"position\": \"absolute\",\n      \"top\": \"0\",\n      \"left\": \"0\"\n    },\n    \"loading\": \"lazy\",\n    \"decoding\": \"async\"\n  })), \"\\n    \", mdx(\"figcaption\", {\n    parentName: \"figure\",\n    \"className\": \"gatsby-resp-image-figcaption\"\n  }, \"Stanley Hotel\"), \"\\n  \"), \"\\n\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"For something more luxurious, check into the historic \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.stanleyhotel.com/?\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Stanley Hotel\"), \". This is the hotel that Stephen King\\u2019s The Shining was based off of and is supposedly haunted. In addition to the historic part of the hotel, there is a boutique hotel, condos and more options for different types of rooms in various buildings.\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"To be in close walking distance to downtown Estes Park in a mid-range hotel, check out \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.hotels.com/ho460756/misty-mountain-lodge-estes-park-united-states-of-america/\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Misty Mountain Lodge\"), \", \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.hotels.com/ho369531/murphy-s-river-lodge-estes-park-united-states-of-america/?\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Murphy\\u2019s River Lodge\"), \" or the \", mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"p\",\n    \"href\": \"https://www.stay22.com/allez/hotelscom?campaign=rocky-mountain-itinerary&aid=lostwithlydiallc&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hotels.com%2Fho465223%2Fsilver-moon-inn-estes-park-united-states-of-america%2F\",\n    \"target\": \"_blank\",\n    \"rel\": \"noopener\"\n  }, \"Silver Moon Inn\"), \".\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"If you\\u2019re looking to stay in a much quieter area, you can look at Grand Lake, which is located on the opposite side of the park. It\\u2019s further from the popular trails but offers more peace and quiet. Check out Western Riviera Lakeside Lodging for lakeside views, The Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant for a historic stay or Spirit Lake Lodge for rooms with Western Decor and fireplaces.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"h1\", {\n    \"id\": \"final-thoughts\",\n    \"style\": {\n      \"position\": \"relative\"\n    }\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"h1\",\n    \"href\": \"#final-thoughts\",\n    \"aria-label\": \"final thoughts permalink\",\n    \"className\": \"anchor before\"\n  }, mdx(\"svg\", {\n    parentName: \"a\",\n    \"aria-hidden\": \"true\",\n    \"height\": \"28\",\n    \"version\": \"1.1\",\n    \"viewBox\": \"0 0 16 16\",\n    \"width\": \"20\"\n  }, \"\\n      \", mdx(\"path\", {\n    parentName: \"svg\",\n    \"fillRule\": \"evenodd\",\n    \"d\": \"M4 9h1v1H4c-1.5 0-3-1.69-3-3.5S2.55 3 4 3h4c1.45 0 3 1.69 3 3.5 0 1.41-.91 2.72-2 3.25V8.59c.58-.45 1-1.27 1-2.09C10 5.22 8.98 4 8 4H4c-.98 0-2 1.22-2 2.5S3 9 4 9zm9-3h-1v1h1c1 0 2 1.22 2 2.5S13.98 12 13 12H9c-.98 0-2-1.22-2-2.5 0-.83.42-1.64 1-2.09V6.25c-1.09.53-2 1.84-2 3.25C6 11.31 7.55 13 9 13h4c1.45 0 3-1.69 3-3.5S14.5 6 13 6z\"\n  }), \"\\n    \")), \"Final Thoughts\"), mdx(\"p\", null, \"I hope this guide helps you plan an epic trip to Rocky Mountain National Park! The park has a lot to offer and I\\u2019m sure these action packed two days will make you want to return and explore deeper in the future. Whether you\\u2019re visiting for the wildlife, the views or the trails, it\\u2019s easy to fall in love with this incredible park.\"), mdx(\"br\", null), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"For more Colorado guides, check out these blogs:\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/Spring-Rocky-Mountains-Itinerary/\"\n  }, \"A Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in May\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/Best-Things-To-Do-in-Boulder-Colorado/\"\n  }, \"The Best Things To Do in Boulder, Colorado\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/Best-Hiking-in-Fort-Collins/\"\n  }, \"The Best Hiking in Fort Collins, Colorado\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/Denver-Weekend-Itinerary/\"\n  }, \"The Perfect Denver Weekend Itinerary\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/One-Day-in-Colorado-Springs/\"\n  }, \"How to Spend One Day in Colorado Springs\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/co/Things-to-do-in-Silverthorne-CO/\"\n  }, \"The Best Things To Do in Silverthorne, Colorado\"))), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"For more US National Park guides, check out these blogs:\")), mdx(\"ul\", null, \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/wv/Best-Things-to-do-at-New-River-Gorge/\"\n  }, \"The Best Things To Do at New River Gorge\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/wy/Things-To-Do-in-Yellowstone-National-Park/\"\n  }, \"50+ Things To Do in Yellowstone\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/me/Best-Hiking-Trails-in-Acadia-National-Park/\"\n  }, \"The Best Hiking Trails in Acadia\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/ut/2-Days-at-Zion-National-Park/\"\n  }, \"How to Spend Two Days in Zion\")), \"\\n  \", mdx(\"li\", {\n    parentName: \"ul\"\n  }, mdx(\"a\", {\n    parentName: \"li\",\n    \"href\": \"/destinations/usa/ca/Joshua-Tree-Itinerary/\"\n  }, \"How to Spend Two Days in Joshua Tree\"))), mdx(\"p\", null, mdx(\"strong\", {\n    parentName: \"p\"\n  }, \"Thanks for Reading!\")));\n}\n;\nMDXContent.isMDXComponent = true;","tableOfContents":{"items":[{"url":"#reservations-in-rocky-mountain-national-park","title":"Reservations in Rocky Mountain National Park"},{"url":"#when-to-visit-the-rocky-mountains","title":"When to Visit the Rocky Mountains"},{"url":"#how-to-get-to-the-rocky-mountains","title":"How to Get to the Rocky Mountains"},{"url":"#tips-and-things-to-know-before-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park","title":"Tips and Things To Know Before Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park","items":[{"url":"#leave-no-trace-in-the-rocky-mountains","title":"Leave No Trace in the Rocky Mountains"},{"url":"#more-tips-for-visiting-the-rocky-mountains","title":"More Tips for Visiting the Rocky Mountains"}]},{"url":"#rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-one","title":"Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary: Day One","items":[{"url":"#hike-to-emerald-lake-and-lake-haiyaha","title":"Hike to Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha"},{"url":"#drive-trail-ridge-road","title":"Drive Trail Ridge Road"}]},{"url":"#dinner-in-estes-park","title":"Dinner in Estes Park"},{"url":"#rocky-mountain-national-park-itinerary-day-two","title":"Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary: Day Two","items":[{"url":"#hike-to-sky-pond","title":"Hike to Sky Pond"},{"url":"#sprague-lake","title":"Sprague Lake"}]},{"url":"#where-to-stay-when-visiting-rocky-mountain-national-park","title":"Where to Stay When Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park","items":[{"url":"#camping-in-the-rocky-mountains","title":"Camping in the Rocky Mountains"},{"url":"#hotels-and-cabins-in-estes-park","title":"Hotels and Cabins in Estes Park"}]},{"url":"#final-thoughts","title":"Final Thoughts"}]},"frontmatter":{"date":null,"title":"The Perfect Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary (2 Days)","toc":null,"categories":"USA CO","tags":["US National Parks"],"affiliate":true,"ads":null,"pinDescription":null,"description":"Learn how to spend 2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer! This guide includes hiking, scenic drives, food in Estes Park and more.","banner":{"publicURL":"/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/skypond2.jpg","childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/74fd5/skypond2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/e3903/skypond2.jpg 480w,\n/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/b31d1/skypond2.jpg 960w,\n/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/74fd5/skypond2.jpg 1920w,\n/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/c1679/skypond2.jpg 2880w,\n/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/549be/skypond2.jpg 3840w,\n/static/0b661cc51c23fa6a2c15419738700638/91974/skypond2.jpg 4032w","sizes":"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"}}},"pins":[{"id":"81ab6bf0-ecff-55b7-ad62-d39c87ae58e1","publicURL":"/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/rmnpitinerary-01.png","childImageSharp":{"gatsbyImageData":{"layout":"constrained","backgroundColor":"#f8f8f8","images":{"fallback":{"src":"/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/299b8/rmnpitinerary-01.png","srcSet":"/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/24881/rmnpitinerary-01.png 250w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/d8ea1/rmnpitinerary-01.png 500w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/299b8/rmnpitinerary-01.png 1000w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/c95d1/rmnpitinerary-01.png 2000w","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"},"sources":[{"srcSet":"/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/1c893/rmnpitinerary-01.webp 250w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/316df/rmnpitinerary-01.webp 500w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/b3e07/rmnpitinerary-01.webp 1000w,\n/static/beec4bb4f5c1d0c5e375d52fb05d0d14/9ed46/rmnpitinerary-01.webp 2000w","type":"image/webp","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"}]},"width":1000,"height":1500}}},{"id":"7f26cae2-1409-5465-b9a5-27b88de7d1c4","publicURL":"/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/rmnpitinerary-04.png","childImageSharp":{"gatsbyImageData":{"layout":"constrained","backgroundColor":"#f8f8f8","images":{"fallback":{"src":"/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/299b8/rmnpitinerary-04.png","srcSet":"/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/24881/rmnpitinerary-04.png 250w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/d8ea1/rmnpitinerary-04.png 500w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/299b8/rmnpitinerary-04.png 1000w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/c95d1/rmnpitinerary-04.png 2000w","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"},"sources":[{"srcSet":"/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/1c893/rmnpitinerary-04.webp 250w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/316df/rmnpitinerary-04.webp 500w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/b3e07/rmnpitinerary-04.webp 1000w,\n/static/b064c1b3d70ea788bbee88bea37c8af0/9ed46/rmnpitinerary-04.webp 2000w","type":"image/webp","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"}]},"width":1000,"height":1500}}},{"id":"745d75b6-3d30-50da-a38e-02698ea6d51d","publicURL":"/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/rmnpitinerary-02.png","childImageSharp":{"gatsbyImageData":{"layout":"constrained","backgroundColor":"#082858","images":{"fallback":{"src":"/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/299b8/rmnpitinerary-02.png","srcSet":"/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/24881/rmnpitinerary-02.png 250w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/d8ea1/rmnpitinerary-02.png 500w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/299b8/rmnpitinerary-02.png 1000w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/c95d1/rmnpitinerary-02.png 2000w","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"},"sources":[{"srcSet":"/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/1c893/rmnpitinerary-02.webp 250w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/316df/rmnpitinerary-02.webp 500w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/b3e07/rmnpitinerary-02.webp 1000w,\n/static/5fae1ffa5ffcf14b60267722792db2b2/9ed46/rmnpitinerary-02.webp 2000w","type":"image/webp","sizes":"(min-width: 1000px) 1000px, 100vw"}]},"width":1000,"height":1500}}}],"related":[{"frontmatter":{"title":"The Best Things To Do in Silverthorne, CO (Year Round!)","banner":{"childImageSharp":{"gatsbyImageData":{"layout":"constrained","backgroundColor":"#f8f8f8","images":{"fallback":{"src":"/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/0132d/sapphirepoint2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/b332f/sapphirepoint2.jpg 100w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/d9f52/sapphirepoint2.jpg 200w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/0132d/sapphirepoint2.jpg 400w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/3b307/sapphirepoint2.jpg 800w","sizes":"(min-width: 400px) 400px, 100vw"},"sources":[{"srcSet":"/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/88d32/sapphirepoint2.webp 100w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/b9488/sapphirepoint2.webp 200w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/47294/sapphirepoint2.webp 400w,\n/static/e5dd99db09070d11117a8e66566f6521/89c0d/sapphirepoint2.webp 800w","type":"image/webp","sizes":"(min-width: 400px) 400px, 100vw"}]},"width":400,"height":267}}}},"fields":{"slug":"/destinations/usa/co/Things-to-do-in-Silverthorne-CO/"},"id":"92905375-6b61-5c52-823f-0cd519e246ef"},{"frontmatter":{"title":"The Perfect Denver Weekend Itinerary: Hiking, Art & Food","banner":{"childImageSharp":{"gatsbyImageData":{"layout":"constrained","backgroundColor":"#b8b8b8","images":{"fallback":{"src":"/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/2070e/sunset.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/98cbe/sunset.jpg 100w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/90ed1/sunset.jpg 200w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/2070e/sunset.jpg 400w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/d0b9c/sunset.jpg 800w","sizes":"(min-width: 400px) 400px, 100vw"},"sources":[{"srcSet":"/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/f6ea0/sunset.webp 100w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/b5535/sunset.webp 200w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/f5c71/sunset.webp 400w,\n/static/b0c54a87c3f575dd73cb8477a53ea2f8/0d27e/sunset.webp 800w","type":"image/webp","sizes":"(min-width: 400px) 400px, 100vw"}]},"width":400,"height":300}}}},"fields":{"slug":"/destinations/usa/co/Denver-Weekend-Itinerary/"},"id":"30fc451a-9d64-5024-92f8-4567aa7d4037"}]},"fields":{"slug":"/destinations/usa/co/Rocky-Mountain-National-Park-Itinerary/","date":"2023-05-15"},"id":"af23ddaa-cc53-5817-a955-d6e73aa3174f","excerpt":"Rocky Mountain National Park is an incredible Colorado destination full of snowy mountain peaks, a variety of wildlife, world class hiking…"}},"pageContext":{"id":"af23ddaa-cc53-5817-a955-d6e73aa3174f","next":{"fields":{"slug":"/destinations/usa/ut/One-Day-in-Capitol-Reef-National-Park/"},"frontmatter":{"title":"How To Spend One Day in Capitol Reef National Park"}},"previous":{"fields":{"slug":"/destinations/chile/Tips-for-Hiking-the-W-Trek-in-Patagonia/"},"frontmatter":{"title":"30 Tips for Hiking the W Trek in Patagonia (Self-Guided)"}}}},
    "staticQueryHashes": ["1271460761","3204285929","3324556263","3437645752","3841701197","988244103"]}