Many international travelers visit multiple national parks on a single itinerary, particularly in the western United States. Under the 2026 system, surcharges apply separately at each affected park. For example, a nonresident visiting Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain National Parks on a single trip would incur three separate $100 per-person surcharges in addition to each park’s base entrance fee.

Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most underrated seasons. The crowds thin out, the mountains turn quiet, and the landscape transforms into an untouched world of snow-draped pines, frozen lakes, and sparkling alpine valleys. Whether you’re planning a snowshoe hike, stopping for winter wildlife viewing, or simply exploring the scenic overlooks, bringing the right gear can make your time in the park safe, comfortable, and unforgettable....

A local guide’s complete breakdown of what to expect, what you’ll see, and how to prepare for one of Colorado’s most magical nighttime experiences. If you’ve never stepped into Rocky Mountain National Park after dark, here’s the truth:you haven’t truly met the mountains yet. When the sun slides behind the Continental Divide, the crowds disappear, the wind softens, and the night sky opens like a cathedral ceiling. The stars sharpen....

“Because some families bond through board games — and others bond by climbing mountains together.” A masterfully told 3-day adventure in Estes Park, crafted for families who seek memories measured not in miles, but in moments. Day 1 — The Mountains Say Good Morning The morning air in Estes Park has a way of waking you up long before the caffeine does. It’s crisp, pine-coated, and full of promise —...

Late winter in Estes Park is a beautiful and underrated season for weddings. February and March invite a transition in the mountains: the high peaks stay snow-covered, the mornings stay crisp, and the sun hangs a little longer each afternoon. At the same time, trails begin to thaw, lake edges soften, and wildlife becomes more active. For couples planning a wedding during these months, the blend of winter magic and...

If you’re new to hiking in the mountains, trekking poles can feel like extra gear you may or may not need. But once you use them correctly—especially in Rocky Mountain National Park—you understand why guides, trail runners, and long-distance hikers swear by them. Trekking poles aren’t just for steep trails or older hikers. They make hiking safer, smoother, and more efficient for everyone, from families to first-timers visiting Estes Park....

In winter and early spring, Rocky Mountain National Park transforms into a landscape of packed snow, hidden ice, and slick shaded trails. Even the easiest routes—Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Lily Lake, Cub Lake, Deer Mountain—can turn icy overnight. That’s why microspikes are one of the most essential pieces of safety gear for hiking in Estes Park from November through April. But not all microspikes fit the same, and the footwear...

The word local gets used a lot in mountain towns, but in Estes Park it carries a unique meaning—one that doesn’t fit neatly into the usual boxes of where you grew up or how long you’ve lived somewhere. This little corner of the Rockies is a place people are drawn to. Some arrive for a season and stay for a lifetime. Others work here every day but drive home to another...