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Moraine Park Amphitheater: A Rustic Gathering Place

Discover a historic and naturally beautiful open-air venue in Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for intimate gatherings and educational experiences.

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Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Moraine Park Amphitheater offers a glimpse into the park's past. Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this rustic venue continues to host weddings, educational programs, and those seeking a connection with nature.

A brief summary to Moraine Park Amphitheater

  • 985-1579 Bear Lake Rd, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
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Local tips

  • Check the Rocky Mountain National Park website for alerts and closures before your visit.
  • Restrooms are available when the Discovery Center is open; otherwise, the closest restrooms are at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center.
  • The amphitheater is a popular wedding venue; check availability and reserve in advance.
  • Bring a jacket, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Estes Park, drive west on Highway 36. Turn left onto Bear Lake Road near the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Follow Bear Lake Road for approximately 2.7 miles to the Moraine Park Discovery Center. Park in the designated parking area. A short walk from the parking lot leads to the amphitheater.

  • Walking

    From the Moraine Park Campground, follow the paved trail towards the Moraine Park Discovery Center. The amphitheater is located a short distance from the Discovery Center, adjacent to the parking area. The walk is relatively easy, but the trail has some uneven stone steps.

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Discover more about Moraine Park Amphitheater

The Moraine Park Amphitheater, located within Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado, is a testament to the National Park Service's rustic design era. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1936-37, the amphitheater embodies the naturalistic design principles of the time, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. The site is located near the Moraine Park Museum, formerly the Moraine Park Lodge's assembly hall, off Bear Lake Road. The amphitheater features stone and plank seating arranged in a semi-circle, accommodating up to 30 people. Ponderosa pines create a natural wall around the stage, enhancing the intimate atmosphere. Stone steps and trails provide pedestrian access, while an elaborate drainage system is concealed within the slope behind the stage. The amphitheater has hosted a variety of events over the years, including lectures, religious gatherings, and campfire programs. Today, it is primarily used for weddings and school education programs. The Moraine Park Museum and Amphitheater represent an important period in National Park Service history, reflecting a commitment to conservation and naturalistic design. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, with the listing expanded to include the amphitheater in 2005.

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