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Moraine Park: A Glacial Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park

Discover Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park: A glacier-carved valley offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning mountain views year-round.

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Moraine Park is a stunning, wide-open valley carved by ancient glaciers in Rocky Mountain National Park. This scenic area offers diverse activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring the Moraine Park Museum. With its rich history and natural beauty, Moraine Park provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Moraine Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the fall (September-October) for the best chance to witness the elk mating ritual.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing.
  • Check the park's website for trail closures and weather updates before your visit.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season.
  • Take the Moraine Park Loop Trail for an easy, family-friendly hike.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Estes Park, take Highway 36 to the Beaver Meadows Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. After passing through the entrance, turn left onto Bear Lake Road. Continue for 5 miles. Moraine Park is located along Bear Lake Road. Turn right onto Moraine Park Road and follow the signs to the Moraine Park Discovery Center or the campground. Park entrance fees apply: A daily pass is $30 per vehicle, or an annual pass is $105.

  • Shuttle

    During peak season, the free park shuttle provides access to Bear Lake Road and Moraine Park. From the Estes Park Visitor Center or park-and-ride locations, take the shuttle to the Bear Lake Road Park & Ride. From there, transfer to the Moraine Park Route. Check the park's website for the current shuttle schedule and operating dates. There is no cost to ride the shuttle, but a park entrance pass is still required.

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Discover more about Moraine Park

Moraine Park, a captivating destination within Rocky Mountain National Park, is a testament to the power of glacial activity. Thousands of years ago, glaciers sculpted this expansive valley, leaving behind a landscape of gently rolling hills and a broad, level floor. Today, Moraine Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a diverse range of activities and breathtaking scenery. The area boasts a rich history, with evidence of human presence dating back centuries. Imogene Green MacPherson first homesteaded the site in 1903, recognizing its potential as a tourist destination. She established the Moraine Park Lodge in 1923, which now serves as the Moraine Park Museum. The museum features interactive exhibits about the geology, glaciers, and ecosystems of the park. Visitors can explore the park's natural wonders through various hiking trails, including the popular Moraine Park Loop Trail, which is ideal for families. This easy 4.6-mile loop meanders through a vibrant meadow teeming with life and beauty, surrounded by the park's towering peaks. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the Big Thompson River, which flows through the park. Wildlife is abundant in Moraine Park, offering opportunities to spot elk, deer, coyotes, and various bird species. The park is particularly renowned for elk viewing during the fall rut. Moraine Park is easily accessible via Bear Lake Road, located a short distance from the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. The Moraine Park Discovery Center provides valuable information and exhibits about the area's natural and cultural history. The Moraine Park Campground offers a chance to stay overnight and immerse oneself in the park's serene atmosphere.

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