Beaver Meadows Visitor Center: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
Your adventure starts here! Explore exhibits, get info, and discover the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park at this iconic visitor center.
The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is located on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, Colorado. It serves as the park's main visitor center and administrative headquarters. Completed in 1967, the building was designed by Taliesin Associated Architects, a firm of Frank Lloyd Wright's apprentices, and is considered one of their most significant commissions. The visitor center was part of the Park Service's Mission 66 program, aimed at improving park infrastructure. The building's design blends modern architecture with the natural landscape, featuring concrete panels embedded with sandstone and a steel frame inspired by Native American rock art. The eastern end of the building houses visitor facilities, including a lobby, amphitheater, and shop, while the western end contains park offices. Visitors can obtain park information, watch a park film, and explore exhibits about the park's natural and cultural history. The Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store is also located within the visitor center.
Local tips
- Check the National Park Service website for updated hours, as they vary seasonally.
- Arrive early during peak season to avoid crowds and parking issues.
- Take time to view the 3D model of the park to get oriented.
- Ask park rangers for trail recommendations and safety information.
A brief summary to Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
- 1000 US-36, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
- +1970-586-1206
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Bus
From the Estes Park Visitor Center, take the free Hiker Shuttle operated by Rocky Mountain National Park. The shuttle runs frequently during the summer months and connects to the Park & Ride inside the park. From there, you can transfer to other shuttles to access various trailheads. A Hiker Shuttle ticket is $2 per person. A valid park entrance pass is also required.
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Taxi
From Estes Park, a taxi to the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center will take approximately 6 minutes and cost between $10 and $13. Taxi services are limited in Estes Park.
