Horseshoe Park: A Glacial Meadow in Rocky Mountain National Park

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Discover stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife in this glacially-carved valley within Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.

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Horseshoe Park

Horseshoe Park is a scenic flat meadow within Rocky Mountain National Park, known for its abundant wildlife, including bighorn sheep and elk, and its stunning mountain views. Formed by glacial activity, it's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

A brief summary to Horseshoe Park

Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Horseshoe Park.

Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially during the early morning or dusk hours when animals are most active.
Visit in September or October to witness the elk mating season, where you can hear the distinctive bugling calls of bull elk.
Check for meadow closures, typically in effect from May to October, to protect the native wildlife species.
Consider taking the short walk to Horseshoe Park Overlook for panoramic views of the meadow, Fall River, and surrounding mountains.

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Getting There

Driving

From Estes Park, drive west on US Highway 34 (Trail Ridge Road) towards the Fall River Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. After entering the park, continue on US-34. Look for signs for Horseshoe Park. Several pull-outs along the road offer access and views of the park. Park entrance fees apply; a timed-entry permit may also be required during peak season. Check the National Park Service website for current fee information and permit requirements.
Public Transport

During the summer, take the free park shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the park-and-ride on Bear Lake Road. From there, connect to the free Hiker Shuttle which provides access to many destinations along Trail Ridge Road, including Horseshoe Park. Check the Rocky Mountain National Park website for the shuttle schedule and operating dates. Note that using the shuttle may require a timed-entry permit.

Discover more about Horseshoe Park

Horseshoe Park, nestled within Rocky Mountain National Park, is a picturesque valley carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. This U-shaped valley boasts a diverse montane ecosystem of forests and grasslands, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.The park's history extends back to the early 1900s when William H. Ashton built the Horseshoe Inn to accommodate over 100 guests. The federal government purchased the inn in 1931 and razed it to restore the land to its natural state. From 1933 to 1942, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) operated a camp in the area, where they worked to remove beetle-infested trees and improve trails and campgrounds.Today, Horseshoe Park is renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities. Bighorn sheep, elk, and various bird species frequent the area, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park's wetland meadows and Sheep Lakes provide essential minerals and nutrients for these animals. Visitors can also explore the Alluvial Fan, a unique geological feature formed by a 1982 flood, and hike the Lawn Lake Trail, which follows the Roaring River to Lawn Lake and Crystal Lake. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities.