If you're just looking to escape the city for a few hours, this is the most popular half-day excursion with some nice scenery, but keep in mind that you don't really visit the National Park itself. This tour also takes you to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver, with the chance to see beautiful historic cities and stunning landscapes while traveling there.
Assuming you're coming from Denver to Estes Park on your way to Rocky Mountain National Park, don't just drive without stopping to see what this quaint little town has to offer.
As already mentioned, there is a big difference in altitude when reaching Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver. This winding road connects the park's two main entrances (Estes Park and Grand Lake) and crosses four of the five regions of Rocky Mountain National Park. Driving this road can take a couple of hours, including stops, but it will definitely be the highlight of your Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary.
There are dozens of mountain peaks with 156 lakes scattered in between, all of them protected by National Park status from any unwanted development and damage.
