Moraine Park
Expansive meadows and the Big Thompson River in RMNP, famous for elk herds and as a gateway to Bear Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Prime elk rut viewing
Moraine Park
Best Time
Prime elk rut viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive meadows and the Big Thompson River in RMNP, famous for elk herds and as a gateway to Bear Lake.
"Moraine Park is one of our favorite places in RMNP to spot herds of elk."
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early!
Secure your RMNP timed entry pass online ASAP, especially for peak season.
🦌 Keep a Safe Distance from Elk
During the rut, bull elk are aggressive. Stay at least 75ft away.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elk Herds in the Valley
Moraine Park meadows
Witness majestic elk grazing in the expansive meadows, especially during the fall rut. A true wildlife spectacle!
Big Thompson River Views
Along the riverbanks
The scenic Big Thompson River meanders through Moraine Park, offering tranquil spots and beautiful mountain backdrops.
Gateway to Bear Lake Corridor
Moraine Park entrance
This area serves as a crucial access point to the popular Bear Lake Road, leading to numerous hiking trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry Reservations are Key
Elk Rut: A Spectacle to Behold (Safely!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early!
Secure your RMNP timed entry pass online ASAP, especially for peak season.
🦌 Keep a Safe Distance from Elk
During the rut, bull elk are aggressive. Stay at least 75ft away.
👟 Hike from YMCA to Skip Entry
Park at YMCA of the Rockies and hike into Moraine Park to bypass timed entry.
📸 Pack a Long Lens
Essential for capturing wildlife like elk from a safe distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early!
Secure your RMNP timed entry pass online ASAP, especially for peak season.
🦌 Keep a Safe Distance from Elk
During the rut, bull elk are aggressive. Stay at least 75ft away.
👟 Hike from YMCA to Skip Entry
Park at YMCA of the Rockies and hike into Moraine Park to bypass timed entry.
📸 Pack a Long Lens
Essential for capturing wildlife like elk from a safe distance.
🚗 Explore Beyond Bear Lake
Moraine Park itself offers stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views, spacious campsites, and abundant wildlife, particularly the elk. The proximity to trails and the scenic Big Thompson River are frequently praised. Some note that bathrooms could be cleaner, and the need for timed entry reservations can be a hurdle, though alternatives exist.
"Lovely campground. Bathrooms were kept clean (although it was other campers who were making it their mission to trash them). The views were great, spots were nice and spacious and super close to a ton of amazing trails"
Connie Moreno
"Since my wife was out of town, my sister decided to come out for a week to keep me company. We spent Saturday and Sunday up in the park and had a wonderful time. There was a mixture of cloud and sun , so it was nice and contrasty (😏) for photography. On Saturday afternoon, we saw a lot of animals all up-and-down the different roads of the park. Such majestic animals. There is such a difference in the weather when you start going up higher towards Bear Lake. It seems like we had a little bit of summer mixed in with winter. Always something to see and enjoy when you get a chance to get into the park."
Douglas Hohulin
"1st time here now that they have electric sites.
RV camped in town 1st night...over $100. With the senior lifetime pass it's only about $28 here."
Dave Graves
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moraine Park is located within Rocky Mountain National Park, accessible via the Beaver Meadows Entrance near Estes Park. If you have a timed entry reservation, you can drive directly in. Alternatively, you can park at the YMCA of the Rockies and hike approximately one mile into Moraine Park via the Tuxedo Park trail, which bypasses the need for a timed entry reservation but still requires a park pass.
Yes, there are parking areas within Moraine Park, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and for popular events like the elk rut. Arriving early is recommended.
You can access Moraine Park without a timed entry permit by parking at the YMCA of the Rockies and hiking in. However, you will still need to purchase a valid Rocky Mountain National Park entrance pass.
From Estes Park, head west on US-36 W towards Rocky Mountain National Park. Follow signs for the Beaver Meadows Entrance. Once inside the park, follow the main park road, and Moraine Park will be clearly signposted.
During peak season, RMNP operates shuttle buses that may serve areas near Moraine Park, including the Bear Lake Corridor. Check the official RMNP website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Rocky Mountain National Park generally requires a timed entry permit to enter during peak hours and seasons. You can book these online in advance. If you miss out, parking at the YMCA and hiking in is an alternative.
Entry to Moraine Park is covered by the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance fee. As of recent information, this is typically around $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, but check the official RMNP website for current pricing. Senior passes offer discounts.
Timed entry permits are typically released in two windows: a few days in advance and then another batch the evening before. It's crucial to check the RMNP website for the exact release dates and times, as they can vary.
Moraine Park is accessible whenever Rocky Mountain National Park is open. However, timed entry reservations may be required during specific hours, typically from late May through mid-October.
Some visitors report success entering Bear Lake Road before 5 AM without a timed entry permit, but this is not guaranteed and depends on park management. It's always best to secure a reservation or use the YMCA parking alternative.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Moraine Park is ideal for wildlife viewing (especially elk during the rut), scenic drives, photography, and as a trailhead for hikes into the Bear Lake Corridor. The Big Thompson River also offers a peaceful setting. +2
Yes, Moraine Park itself has relatively easy terrain and is a starting point for many hikes. It's also the gateway to the Bear Lake Corridor, which offers a wide range of trails for all skill levels.
The elk rut, when bull elk are most active and vocal, occurs from mid-September through October. Sunrise and sunset are prime times for viewing. You might also see elk in July and August.
No, dogs are generally not allowed on trails or in the backcountry areas of Rocky Mountain National Park, including Moraine Park, to protect wildlife.
Moraine Park is renowned for its elk herds. You may also spot deer, coyotes, marmots, and occasionally moose.
📸 📸 Photography
Moraine Park offers stunning opportunities for landscape photography with its sweeping meadows, the Big Thompson River, and the surrounding peaks. It's also a prime location for wildlife photography, especially of elk.
Sunrise and sunset provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm hues. The 'golden hour' is particularly magical for capturing the landscape and wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens (e.g., 300mm or longer) is essential for safely photographing wildlife like elk. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
The pull-offs along the main park road offer excellent vantage points. The meadows themselves provide unobstructed views, and the riverbanks offer foreground interest. +1
Drone usage is restricted in Rocky Mountain National Park, including Moraine Park, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current park regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for interpretive signs that can educate kids about the local flora and fauna. While the elk rut can be exciting, ensure children understand the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. The open meadows are perfect for letting kids burn off energy while supervised.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens kit, including a wide-angle for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife. Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides the most flattering light. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, which can add dramatic flair to your shots.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Consider the hike from the YMCA of the Rockies as a scenic and convenient way to access the park's interior. The relatively low elevation of Moraine Park makes it a good option for acclimatizing to the altitude before tackling higher trails.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Viewing in Moraine Park
Beyond elk, keep an eye out for other native species such as deer, coyotes, marmots, and occasionally moose. Early morning and late evening are generally the best times for wildlife sightings, as animals are more active during these cooler parts of the day. Remember to bring binoculars or a telephoto lens to get a closer look without disturbing the animals.
+1It's important to practice Leave No Trace principles when viewing wildlife. Never feed animals, as this can lead to dependency and health issues. Stay on designated trails and roads to minimize your impact on their habitat. Respecting wildlife ensures that these magnificent creatures can be enjoyed by future visitors.
Accessing Moraine Park: Beyond Timed Entry
This method is a fantastic option for visitors who may have missed out on securing a timed entry reservation or prefer a more active approach to their park visit. The hike itself is relatively easy and offers a pleasant introduction to the park's scenery. It's a testament to the community's resourcefulness in ensuring access to this beautiful area.
For those who do have a timed entry permit, Moraine Park serves as a crucial hub. It's the primary access point for the Bear Lake Road corridor, which leads to numerous trailheads for popular hikes like Emerald Lake and Sky Pond. Arriving early, even with a reservation, is still a good idea to secure parking within Moraine Park itself.
Photography Tips for Moraine Park
When it comes to photographing the park's famous elk, a telephoto lens is indispensable. This allows you to capture intimate moments of the rut or grazing herds from a safe and respectful distance, as recommended by park officials. Patience is key; spend time observing the animals' behavior to anticipate the best photographic moments. Remember to always maintain the recommended 75-foot buffer zone.
Consider the weather as well. Dramatic cloud formations can add significant mood and texture to your landscape photos. The contrast between sun and clouds can create striking imagery. Always be prepared for changing mountain weather by dressing in layers and protecting your gear from potential rain or snow.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit