Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
Explore Colorado's majestic mountains and grasslands: hiking, camping, scenic drives, and endless outdoor adventures await in this natural wonderland.
Discover 1.5 million acres of diverse landscapes in northern Colorado, offering year-round recreation. From majestic mountains to vast grasslands, explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and ten wilderness areas. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
- Denver, Colorado, 80526, US
- +1970-295-6600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Forest Service website for alerts, closures, and fire restrictions before your visit.
- Purchase passes or permits online in advance, especially for popular destinations like Mount Blue Sky and Brainard Lake.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
- Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
Getting There
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Driving
The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland are vast, with many access points. Depending on your chosen destination within the ARP, driving is typically the most practical way to arrive. From Denver, take I-70 west or I-25 north to access various parts of the forest and grassland. Use a GPS device or map to navigate to specific trailheads, campgrounds, or scenic areas. Parking is available at most trailheads and recreation areas, but can be limited during peak season. Parking fees may apply in certain areas.
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland is limited, you can take a Bustang West Line from Denver Union Station to Fort Collins [https://ridebustang.com/west-line/]. From there, local Transfort bus routes might get you closer to the forest edges, but ride-sharing or taxi services would likely be needed for the final approach to trailheads or specific destinations. Keep in mind that this option may significantly increase travel time and cost.
Discover more about Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kauffman House Museum
16.8 km
Explore the Kauffman House Museum in Grand Lake, Colorado, for an insightful journey through the region's history and captivating artifacts.
Cozens Ranch Museum
20.1 km
Uncover the intriguing history of Granby, Colorado at Cozens Ranch Museum, a perfect blend of heritage, community, and exploration.
Lost Lake Trail
21.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Lost Lake Trail in Nederland, Colorado, a perfect hiking destination for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Boulder Falls
31.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Boulder Falls, a stunning waterfall nestled in Boulder Canyon, Colorado, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rocky Mountain Day Hikes, a Website of hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
31.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with stunning hiking trails designed for all levels of adventurers and nature lovers.
St Mary's Glacier
31.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of St. Mary's Glacier in Colorado, a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and connecting with nature.
Forest Canyon Overlook
31.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Many Parks Curve Overlook
32.3 km
Explore Many Parks Curve Overlook, a stunning scenic spot in Rocky Mountain National Park, offering breathtaking views and an immersive natural experience.
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
32.6 km
Explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park from the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center - your essential resource for adventure and discovery.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
32.7 km
Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.
Rocky Mountain National Park Sign
32.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rocky Mountain National Park, a natural wonder in Colorado for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Farview Curve Viewpoint
33.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains at Farview Curve Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot along Trail Ridge Road in Colorado.
Rainbow Curve Overlook
33.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Rainbow Curve Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Rocky Mountain National Park offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
Tour Estes Park
33.8 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Horseshoe Park
33.9 km
Explore the stunning scenery and wildlife of Horseshoe Park in Estes Park, Colorado, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Monarch Lake
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Monarch Lake: Hike scenic trails, paddle calm waters, and explore the gateway to the Indian Peaks Wilderness.
Wild Basin
15.3 km
Discover Wild Basin: Hike to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes in a less-crowded corner of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Ouzel Falls
15.8 km
Discover the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park on the trail to Ouzel Falls, a 5.4-mile hike through Wild Basin's stunning waterfalls.
Calypso Cascades
16.2 km
Hike to the stunning Calypso Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin and discover a serene waterfall surrounded by natural beauty.
Grand Lake
17.0 km
Discover Grand Lake, Colorado: A charming mountain village with year-round recreation, stunning lake views, and easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Grand Lake Visitor Center
17.4 km
Your adventure starts here! Get info on Grand Lake, the Rockies, and more at the Grand Lake Visitor Center. Open daily with friendly staff.
Copeland Falls
18.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Copeland Falls, an easily accessible waterfall hike in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin.
Wild Basin Trailhead
18.8 km
Discover Rocky Mountain National Park's serene side: Hike to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes from the Wild Basin Trailhead near Allenspark, CO.
Kawuneeche Visitor Center
18.9 km
Explore the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park at Kawuneeche Visitor Center, your essential guide to outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes.
Chasm View
19.8 km
Experience breathtaking views from Chasm View in Rocky Mountain National Park, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes.
Fraser Tubing Hill
20.0 km
Experience thrilling snow tubing at Fraser Tubing Hill, a family-owned winter tradition since 1971, located minutes from Winter Park!
Lake Of Glass
20.3 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Keyhole Route
21.6 km
Experience the thrill of summiting Longs Peak via the iconic Keyhole Route, a challenging mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chasm Junction
21.7 km
A pivotal trail junction on the way to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake, offering access to stunning alpine scenery and challenging climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
22.7 km
Discover the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Twin Owls Steakhouse
30.8 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
32.4 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
33.0 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
33.3 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
33.4 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
34.3 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
34.4 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
The View Restaurant
34.6 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
34.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
Big Horn Restaurant
34.9 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
CAFE DE PHO THAI
35.0 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
MollyB Restaurant
35.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at MollyB Restaurant in Estes Park - where great food meets stunning mountain views.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
35.0 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
35.0 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
Mother's Cafe
35.0 km
Discover comfort food at Mother's Cafe in Estes Park - where every dish feels like home amidst stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
City Market
16.4 km
Discover the essence of Granby at City Market, where fresh local produce and specialty items await every culinary enthusiast.
Country Ace Hardware
17.5 km
Discover the unique blend of hardware, gardening, and gifts at Country Ace Hardware in Granby, Colorado.
Safeway
19.1 km
Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
Bottle Pass Liquors
19.1 km
Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Local Experience
19.2 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and unbeatable service at Fraser's Local Experience, perfect for your Colorado winter adventures.
Sunshine Herb Corner
19.4 km
Explore Sunshine Herb Corner in Fraser, Colorado - your go-to destination for vitamins, supplements, and health foods amidst stunning mountain scenery.
The Mad Moose
33.1 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Village Store of Estes Park
33.1 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
33.5 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
34.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Trading Post of the Rockies in scenic Estes Park.
Lizzie's Boutique
34.9 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Annie's
35.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Annie's, a charming gift shop in Estes Park, CO, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rockies.
Wonderful Things
35.0 km
Explore Wonderful Things in Estes Park, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor in a charming mountain atmosphere.
Favorite Things
35.0 km
Explore Favorite Things in Estes Park for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of Colorado.
The Whispering Wood
35.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs that capture the spirit of Estes Park at The Whispering Wood, your go-to store for local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Randi's Grill & Pub
21.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Gravity Haus Winter Park
21.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Rock Cut Brewing Company
34.7 km
Discover the heart of craft beer culture at Rock Cut Brewing Company, a premier brewery in Estes Park, Colorado, offering stunning views and delicious brews.
Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
34.9 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Full Throttle Distillery & Grill, where hearty meals and local spirits unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
35.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, a perfect blend of Irish pub charm and delightful grill cuisine in Estes Park.
Wheel Bar
35.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails at The Wheel Bar, Estes Park's favorite cocktail destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
35.3 km
Experience fun and excitement at The Bull Pin in Estes Park, featuring bowling, billiards, and arcade games for all ages.
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
35.4 km
Experience the best of Colorado's craft brewery scene at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co., where unique flavors and stunning mountain views await.
Avant Garde Aleworks
35.5 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Avant Garde Aleworks, where exceptional beers meet stunning mountain views in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
35.9 km
Discover the elegance of The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades in Estes Park, where fine whiskeys and stunning mountain views meet in perfect harmony.
217 Wine Bar
36.0 km
Discover the best selection of fine wines at 217 Wine Bar in Estes Park, where scenic views meet exquisite flavors for a perfect evening.
The Bitter Bar
40.8 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
West End Tavern
40.8 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Pits & Stems
40.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Press Play Bar LP
40.9 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
