Beaver Meadows Visitor Center: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Majesty
Your adventure starts here! Discover Rocky Mountain National Park at this iconic visitor center near Estes Park, Colorado.
Located just outside Estes Park, Colorado, the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is more than just an information hub; it's an architectural landmark and the official headquarters of Rocky Mountain National Park. Completed in 1967, the center was designed by Taliesin Associated Architects, a firm of Frank Lloyd Wright's apprentices, and stands as a prime example of modernist architecture blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Built as part of the Mission 66 program to revitalize national park infrastructure, Beaver Meadows was one of the last projects completed under this initiative. The building's design features a long, rectangular structure constructed with a steel frame and concrete panels embedded with sandstone, mirroring the surrounding mountains. The eastern end houses visitor facilities, including an auditorium and a shop, while the western end contains park offices. Inside, visitors can find park rangers ready to assist with trip planning, explore exhibits about the park's diverse ecosystems, and enjoy a film about the park. The Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store offers a variety of books and gifts. The center is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, providing a consistent point of contact for visitors.
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Take advantage of the park ranger's expertise for planning your visit.
- Visit the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store for maps, books, and souvenirs.
- Consider visiting during the off-season for a quieter, more personal experience.
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
-
Driving
From Estes Park, head west on US-36 for approximately 3 miles. The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center will be on your left, just before the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Parking is available at the visitor center. Note that a park entrance fee is required to proceed beyond the visitor center. As of July 2025, a 1-day vehicle pass costs $30, and a 7-day vehicle pass is $35.
-
Public Transport
From the Estes Park Visitor Center, transfer to the RMNP Hiker Shuttle that goes directly to the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. The Peak operates the Town of Estes Park's free, daily transit service during the peak summer tourism season (late May through late October). From May 24 to October 2, 2024 the RMNP Hiker Shuttle will operate on a daily basis and Saturday & Sunday service will run between October 7 to October 20. All passengers need a reservation ticket.
