Things to Know Before You Go – Summer 2023
Timed Entry Permit – What’s New
Rocky Mounting National Park will institute it’s timed-entry-permit system – Friday, May 26th. This permit is required (in addition to a park pass) in order to enter:
- the Bear Lake Road Corridor between 5am – 6pm or
- all other entrances between 9am – 2pm.
A permit is not required outside of these timeframes OR if:
- you are entering via the Hiker Shuttle
- have a camping permit
- or are part of a guided tour
The timed entry permitting requirement will be in effect until October 22nd, and is being used again due to the increased number of expected visitors. This system helps to protect not only the visitor experience but most importantly the health and wellbeing of the park and wildlife.
Timed-entry-permits costs $2 per day, per vehicle and must be purchased online. These permits are non-refundable and non-transferrable, but usually allow exit and reentry to the park. Please visit Recreation.gov for up to date info on the permitting system and in order to purchase you permit.
Rocky Trail Press Wins at the Prestigious Benjamin Franklin Awards
On May 5th in San Diego, the Independent Book Publishers Association announced the winners of this years’ Benjamin Franklin Awards. The winner for Travel Book of the Year went to Estes Parks’ own Rocky Trail Press for The Photographer’s Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park.
This wonderful book contains 136 photo locations, 40 maps, full-page color photos, and the guidance of a professional photographer who has spent nearly 20 years photographing the park’s amazing landscapes. Get your copy here.
Short Term Pain for Long Term Gain
Road construction projects are moving forward to improve traffic flow and safety for Estes Park. While some road closures are in place due to the Downtown Estes Loop Project, contractors will be off the roads in that area by noon on Friday, May 26th and not resume work until Tuesday, May 30th. This should reduce congestion over Memorial Day weekend, but check for updates on this project if you plan to be in the area.
Beginning Tuesday, May 30th traffic will move in an alternating one-way pattern on US 36 at the Community Drive intersection. This change is part of the construction of a new roundabout in this location. Work has been proceeding mostly as expected and will continue through June.
Travelers should assume delays through this area as a pair of temporary traffic lights will control access to the one lane road and the speed limit will be reduced to 40 mph.
Working hours are 7am – 7pm Monday through Saturday. Please see the town’s website for more information on this project and avoid the area if possible.