Experience Breathtaking Vistas at Rainbow Curve Overlook
Discover the stunning beauty of Rainbow Curve Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Rocky Mountain National Park offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Nestled in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Rainbow Curve Overlook offers awe-inspiring panoramic views that attract tourists from around the globe. Standing at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, this scenic spot is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike. The vibrant hues of the surrounding peaks and valleys change dramatically with the time of day, making each visit a unique experience.
A brief summary to Rainbow Curve Overlook
- 1043 Trail Ridge Rd, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
- +1970-586-1222
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views; the scenery changes dramatically with the weather.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can fluctuate rapidly at high elevations.
- Take time to explore nearby trails for a more intimate experience with the park's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Eastern Plains, Colorado. Take US-287 N towards Fort Collins. Continue for approximately 90 miles until you reach Estes Park. Once in Estes Park, follow signs for Rocky Mountain National Park. Enter the park and proceed to Trail Ridge Road (Colorado Highway 34). Drive along Trail Ridge Road for about 6 miles until you reach Rainbow Curve Overlook, located at 1043 Trail Ridge Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517. There is no entrance fee for the overlook, but Rocky Mountain National Park has a vehicle entrance fee of $30, valid for 7 days. Please check current conditions and road status as they can vary seasonally.
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Public Transportation
For those utilizing public transportation, you can take a bus service from Denver to Estes Park. The RTD has a bus line (FF1) to Estes Park. Once you arrive in Estes Park, there are local shuttles available that can take you to Rocky Mountain National Park. Make sure to check the shuttle schedules in advance, as they may vary by season. From the park entrance, you can either walk or take a shuttle to the Rainbow Curve Overlook. Note that the shuttle service may have a fee, so be prepared to pay for transit.
Discover more about Rainbow Curve Overlook
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aspen Winds on Fall River
8.7 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park Sign
10.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rocky Mountain National Park, a natural wonder in Colorado for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
10.0 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Tour Estes Park
11.7 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Performance Park
11.7 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
11.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Red Rose Rock Shop
11.9 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
The Water Wheel
12.0 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Penelope's Old Time Burgers
12.0 km
Enjoy mouthwatering burgers and a nostalgic atmosphere at Penelope's Old Time Burgers in Estes Park, the perfect stop for travelers seeking a hearty meal.
The Taffy Shop
12.1 km
Experience the rich history and sweet flavors at The Taffy Shop, a must-visit candy store in Estes Park, Colorado, perfect for tourists and families.
Estes Park Brewery
12.1 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Estes Park Distilling Co.
12.1 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Estes Park Distilling Co., where handcrafted spirits meet breathtaking mountain views.
MacGregor Ranch Museum
12.1 km
Explore the MacGregor Ranch Museum in Estes Park, Colorado, where agricultural history comes to life amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Mountain Blown Glass, Inc
12.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of glass artistry at Mountain Blown Glass, Inc. in Estes Park, where skilled artisans bring molten glass to life.
Open Air Adventure Park
12.1 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Open Air Adventure Park, where excitement meets breathtaking natural beauty in Estes Park, Colorado.
Unmissable attractions to see
Endovalley Picnic Area
1.6 km
Discover tranquility at the Endovalley Picnic Area, a serene picnic spot in Estes Park, Colorado, surrounded by majestic mountain landscapes and nature.
Chasm Falls
2.0 km
Experience the natural beauty of Chasm Falls in Estes Park, Colorado, where cascading waters and stunning mountain views await every visitor.
Ute Trail
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Ute Trail in Colorado, where stunning mountain views and serene hiking await nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
East Alluvial Fan Trailhead
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Alluvial Fan Trail in Estes Park, CO, where stunning scenery and unique geological wonders await every hiker.
Many Parks Curve Overlook
3.0 km
Discover the majestic beauty of Many Parks Curve Overlook, a scenic gem in Rocky Mountain National Park with breathtaking views and abundant wildlife.
Horseshoe Park
3.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Horseshoe Park in Estes Park, Colorado, a paradise for nature lovers with hiking, camping, and stunning wildlife.
Lawn Lake Trailhead
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife at Lawn Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.
Old Fall River Rd
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and wildlife of Old Fall River Road, a scenic gem in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park.
Trail Ridge Rd
3.9 km
Experience the stunning views and unique ecosystem of Trail Ridge Road in Colorado, a scenic highway through the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Forest Canyon Overlook
4.3 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and vibrant wildlife at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Deer Mountain Trailhead
4.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Deer Mountain Trailhead in Estes Park, a must-see destination for hiking and nature lovers.
Little Horseshoe Park
4.8 km
Experience the natural beauty of Little Horseshoe Park in Estes Park, Colorado, a perfect destination for hiking and scenic exploration.
Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead
5.2 km
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Fern Lake Trailhead
5.8 km
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Tundra Communities Trailhead
6.0 km
Explore the stunning Tundra Communities Trailhead in Estes Park, where breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems await every adventurer.
Essential places to dine
Trailhead Restaurant
6.5 km
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The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
10.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Bird & Jim
10.8 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
11.1 km
Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and authentic gyros at Boss Burgers and Gyros – your go-to spot in scenic Estes Park.
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
11.2 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Big Horn Restaurant
11.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Coffee on the Rocks
11.8 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
11.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
12.0 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
12.0 km
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
12.1 km
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The Sandwich Mafia
12.1 km
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
12.1 km
Experience authentic pizza crafted with love at Bob & Tony's Pizza in Estes Park – your perfect dining stop amidst Colorado's natural beauty.
Himalayan Curry & Kebob
12.1 km
Experience authentic Indian and Nepalese flavors at Himalayan Curry & Kebob in scenic Estes Park - a must-visit dining destination.
River Walk Café
12.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Mountain Gateway
6.5 km
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Trail Ridge Store
8.9 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
11.0 km
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The Mad Moose
11.0 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
11.3 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
11.6 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
11.9 km
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Omnibus
12.0 km
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Country West City East Gifts
12.0 km
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
12.0 km
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Over The Edge
12.0 km
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Favorite Things
12.0 km
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The Whispering Wood
12.0 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
12.0 km
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Estes Park Souvenirs
12.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
12.1 km
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
12.2 km
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Wheel Bar
12.2 km
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Rock Cut Brewing Company
12.3 km
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
12.4 km
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217 Wine Bar
12.4 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
13.5 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
13.9 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
13.9 km
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Pits & Stems
51.8 km
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Kavasutra Kava Bar Fort Collins
51.8 km
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The Mayor of Old Town
53.3 km
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Jungle
53.5 km
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License No. 1
53.5 km
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The Corner Bar
53.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
