Staying in Steamboat/would like to visit RMNP

Question

Is it possible to visit RMNP for a day while staying in Steamboat? In early February? I know some roads would be closed. Which entrance could I get to easiest from Steamboat and is there a drive/loop/scenic byway that isn't closed? Just looking to drive around and be wowed by scenery. Added plus would be an easy snowshoe trail. (I know a day is not enough time in the park, but looking to explore so we have a better idea of where we want to come back and explore deeper).

Answer

Hi there,

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) for a day from Steamboat Springs in early February is possible, but it will be a long day. The drive from Steamboat to the park’s nearest entrance takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours one way, so plan for at least 7–8 hours of driving total. Winter conditions can slow travel, so always check road conditions and weather before heading out.

In February, many high-elevation roads in RMNP are closed due to snow. Trail Ridge Road, which usually provides the iconic scenic drive across the park, is closed in winter from around October to May. However, there are still plenty of scenic areas accessible from lower-elevation entrances.

The easiest entrance from Steamboat Springs is the Grand Lake Entrance on the west side of the park. From Steamboat, you can drive via US-40 east toward Kremmling and then head north on US-34 to reach Grand Lake. This entrance is lower in elevation than the Estes Park side, which can make winter driving a bit easier.

Once inside the park from the Grand Lake side, you can enjoy a scenic drive along lower-elevation roads that are typically open year-round:

Bear Lake Road/Alberta Falls area: Accessible from the Estes Park side, but check if snow plowing allows safe entry in February.
Many Parks Curve: Scenic pullouts along US-34 between Granby and Grand Lake offer dramatic mountain views and photographic stops.
East Inlet Trail: Starts near Grand Lake and is often accessible in winter for a moderate snowshoe hike to East Inlet Falls.

For an easy snowshoe trail in February, consider these options:

Beaver Meadows Visitor Center area: Short, groomed trails near the visitor center on the Estes Park side, good for beginners.
East Inlet Trail: From Grand Lake, this trail is relatively flat and allows snowshoeing to a waterfall; great for a quick winter outing.
Holzwarth Historic Site: Near Grand Lake, easy snowshoe access and historic cabins with mountain views.

Given the distance from Steamboat, an alternative is to plan a one-night stay closer to the park (either Grand Lake or Estes Park) to maximize your time exploring instead of spending most of the day driving. This way, you can enjoy multiple scenic stops, short hikes, and snowshoe trails without feeling rushed.

Even with winter closures, the Grand Lake area provides beautiful snow-covered mountain scenery, frozen lakes, and wildlife sightings. Dress warmly, bring snowshoes or crampons, and enjoy the quiet, snowy beauty of RMNP in February.

Staying in Steamboat/would like to visit RMNP

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