Rocky Mountain National Park
The quieter west entrance through Grand Lake
Most visitors enter Rocky Mountain National Park through Estes Park on the east side—and fight crowds, traffic, and full parking lots all summer. The west entrance through Grand Lake offers the same stunning scenery with a fraction of the visitors.
From Chateau Relaxo, you're just 30 minutes from the Kawuneeche Valley entrance, with access to Trail Ridge Road, excellent hiking, and abundant wildlife. This guide focuses on making the most of RMNP from the west side.
Trail Ridge Road
The highest continuous paved road in the US, reaching 12,183 feet with above-treeline alpine views.
Overview
48 miles across the park
Grand Lake to Estes Park, 2+ hours with stops
Alpine Visitor Center
Highest visitor center in the NPS
At 11,796 feet, views in every direction
Best Stops
Milner Pass, Forest Canyon Overlook, Rock Cut
Pullouts throughout with interpretive signs
Tip: Trail Ridge typically opens late May, closes mid-October. Check current status before going.
Best Hikes from the West Side
Trailheads along the Kawuneeche Valley offer everything from easy strolls to challenging summits.
Colorado River Trail
Easy, 3-4 miles round trip
Follow the infant Colorado River, great for families
Coyote Valley Trail
Easy, 1 mile
Boardwalk, moose common, wheelchair accessible
Onahu Creek/Green Mountain Loop
Moderate, 7 miles
Wildflowers, meadows, forest
Cascade Falls
Moderate, 7 miles round trip
Waterfall destination, elevation gain
Wildlife Viewing
The west side is arguably better for wildlife than the crowded east.
Moose
Common in Kawuneeche Valley
Dawn and dusk, near water
Elk
Especially during fall rut (September)
Herds in meadows
Marmots & Pikas
Along Trail Ridge in alpine areas
Look in rock fields
Tip: Early morning (6-8am) is best for moose. Bring binoculars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for RMNP?
In peak season (late May-mid October), yes. Timed entry permits are required. Book at recreation.gov up to 30 days in advance. West side slots tend to be easier to get.
Is Trail Ridge Road scary to drive?
It's high but not technically difficult—wide, paved, guardrails where needed. Take it slow if you're nervous about heights. Views distract from any nervousness.
How long should I spend at RMNP?
A Trail Ridge Road drive with stops takes 3-4 hours. Add a hike for a full day. Two days lets you explore more trails and catch wildlife at different times.
Where should I stay near RMNP west entrance?
Chateau Relaxo is 30 minutes from the entrance—close enough for early starts, with far more space and amenities than anything in Grand Lake.
Your RMNP Home Base
30 minutes to the park entrance with room for the whole family.
- 30 min to west entrance
- Early morning access
- Hot tub after hiking
- Space for 14
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