Rocky mountain np itinerary

Question

We have 2 full days in the park with 1 night estes park 1 night grand lake area should we split the time and do east side 1 day and Westside the next day or should we do 3 days?

Answer

With 2 full days in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and lodging split between Estes Park and Grand Lake, it is very manageable to see both sides of the park in that timeframe. The park is roughly 70 miles across east to west, with the main east side entrance near Estes Park and the west side near Grand Lake. Driving through Trail Ridge Road connects both sides, but it is seasonal (typically late May through October) and can take a few hours if you stop along the way for photos or short hikes.

Here’s how you could structure a 2-day itinerary:

Day 1 – East Side (Estes Park): Focus on the east side of the park. Start early from Estes Park to maximize time.

Bear Lake Corridor – easy to moderate hikes (Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake)
Alberta Falls – short hike
Sprague Lake – great for a relaxing walk and wildlife viewing
Optional: Longs Peak area if you want a more challenging hike (requires early start)

Day 2 – West Side (Grand Lake): Focus on the west side of the park. Drive Trail Ridge Road from Estes to Grand Lake, stopping along scenic overlooks and short hikes.

Many Parks Curve, Rainbow Curve, and Forest Canyon Overlook for panoramic views
Hiking options: Ute Trail, Tombstone Ridge, or Cub Lake on the west side
Relax in Grand Lake town in the evening

Alternative 3-day option:

If you had 3 full days, you could split it further:

Day 1 – Estes Park area & Bear Lake Corridor (east side)
Day 2 – Trail Ridge Road leisurely drive with multiple short hikes along the way
Day 3 – Grand Lake area & west side hikes, possibly some lake recreation

This allows more relaxed pacing, additional hikes, and more time to enjoy wildlife and scenery without rushing.

Additional Tips:

Arrive early at popular trailheads, especially Bear Lake, as parking fills quickly in summer.
Trail Ridge Road can be busy; plan photo stops accordingly.
Weather can change quickly, so bring layers, water, and snacks.
Consider shuttle options if you want to avoid parking headaches at the Bear Lake corridor.
Wildlife is more active in mornings and evenings, so schedule hikes accordingly.

Recommendation: For 2 days, splitting east side one day and west side the next works well. If you want a more relaxed pace and extra hiking or sightseeing, adding a third day is ideal. Since your lodging is split, this plan minimizes backtracking and makes the most of your travel time.