Alpine Visitor Center: Gateway to the Rockies
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at the Alpine Visitor Center, your gateway to the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Alpine Visitor Center, perched at an elevation of 11,796 feet, is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park. Offering stunning views, informative exhibits, and a charming café, it serves as the perfect starting point for your mountain adventures.
A brief summary to Alpine Visitor Center
- Trail Ridge Rd, Grand Lake, Colorado, 80447, US
- +1970-586-1222
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Check the weather in advance, as conditions can change rapidly at high elevations.
- Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.
- Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff who can recommend tailored hiking trails based on your skill level.
- Don’t miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs and educational materials about the park.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the Alpine Visitor Center, you will want to take US-34 (Trail Ridge Road) from either Estes Park or Grand Lake. If coming from Estes Park, follow US-36 until it intersects with US-34. Follow US-34 through beautiful mountain scenery until you reach the Alpine Visitor Center, located at 40.4409° N, 105.7545° W. Be aware that Trail Ridge Road typically opens in late May and may close in September due to weather conditions. There is no entrance fee specifically for the visitor center, but you may need to pay a Rocky Mountain National Park entrance fee, which is $30 for a standard vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this mountainous area. However, you can use the Estes Park Shuttle service from Denver International Airport to Estes Park. From Estes Park, you can take the Estes Park Trolley, which operates during the summer months, to get closer to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. From there, you will need to arrange a ride or a shuttle service to take you to the Alpine Visitor Center, as there is no direct public transportation available. Be sure to check the schedule and availability of the shuttle services beforehand, as they may vary.
Discover more about Alpine Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Farview Curve Viewpoint
8.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains at Farview Curve Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot along Trail Ridge Road in Colorado.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
17.2 km
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Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
18.4 km
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Rocky Mountain Day Hikes, a Website of hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
18.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with stunning hiking trails designed for all levels of adventurers and nature lovers.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
18.7 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Rocky Mountain National Park Sign
18.8 km
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Performance Park
20.4 km
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MacGregor Ranch Museum
20.5 km
Explore the MacGregor Ranch Museum in Estes Park, Colorado, where agricultural history comes to life amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
20.5 km
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Tour Estes Park
20.5 km
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Red Rose Rock Shop
20.6 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
The Water Wheel
20.6 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Penelope's Old Time Burgers
20.7 km
Enjoy mouthwatering burgers and a nostalgic atmosphere at Penelope's Old Time Burgers in Estes Park, the perfect stop for travelers seeking a hearty meal.
The Taffy Shop
20.8 km
Experience the rich history and sweet flavors at The Taffy Shop, a must-visit candy store in Estes Park, Colorado, perfect for tourists and families.
Estes Park Distilling Co.
20.8 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Estes Park Distilling Co., where handcrafted spirits meet breathtaking mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Alpine Ridge Trail
0.1 km
Explore the picturesque Alpine Ridge Trail in Estes Park, Colorado, a scenic hiking paradise in Rocky Mountain National Park with breathtaking views.
Trail Ridge Road Summit
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and alpine beauty at Trail Ridge Road Summit in Rocky Mountain National Park, a top destination for nature lovers.
Gore Range Overlook
1.5 km
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Lava Cliffs Overlook
1.8 km
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Tundra Communities Trailhead
3.7 km
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Old Fall River Rd
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and wildlife of Old Fall River Road, a scenic gem in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park.
Forest Canyon Overlook
6.1 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and vibrant wildlife at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Trail Ridge Rd
6.6 km
Experience the stunning views and unique ecosystem of Trail Ridge Road in Colorado, a scenic highway through the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Ute Trail
7.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Ute Trail in Colorado, where stunning mountain views and serene hiking await nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Chasm Falls
7.4 km
Experience the natural beauty of Chasm Falls in Estes Park, Colorado, where cascading waters and stunning mountain views await every visitor.
Colorado River Trail
7.9 km
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Endovalley Picnic Area
8.7 km
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Rainbow Curve Overlook
8.9 km
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East Alluvial Fan Trailhead
10.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Alluvial Fan Trail in Estes Park, CO, where stunning scenery and unique geological wonders await every hiker.
Lawn Lake Trailhead
11.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Trailhead Restaurant
14.8 km
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The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
19.2 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
19.7 km
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
19.9 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
20.1 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Big Horn Restaurant
20.4 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Coffee on the Rocks
20.6 km
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Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
20.6 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
20.7 km
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The Wild Rose Restaurant
20.7 km
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
20.8 km
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The Sandwich Mafia
20.8 km
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
20.8 km
Experience authentic pizza crafted with love at Bob & Tony's Pizza in Estes Park – your perfect dining stop amidst Colorado's natural beauty.
Himalayan Curry & Kebob
20.8 km
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River Walk Café
20.9 km
Experience delightful dining at River Walk Café in Estes Park—where fresh ingredients meet stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Trail Ridge Store
0.1 km
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Rocky Mountain Gateway
14.8 km
Explore the treasures of Rocky Mountain Gateway, your one-stop shop for unique gifts, camping gear, and authentic Native American crafts in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Village Store of Estes Park
19.8 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
The Mad Moose
19.8 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
20.1 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
20.3 km
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Omnibus
20.6 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
20.6 km
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Country West City East Gifts
20.7 km
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
20.7 km
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Over The Edge
20.7 km
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Favorite Things
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The Whispering Wood
20.7 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
20.7 km
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
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Wheel Bar
20.9 km
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217 Wine Bar
21.0 km
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Rock Cut Brewing Company
21.1 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
22.2 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
22.6 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
22.6 km
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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Gravity Haus Winter Park
58.1 km
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Kavasutra Kava Bar Fort Collins
58.2 km
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The Mayor of Old Town
59.2 km
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Tap and Handle
59.4 km
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Ace Gillett's Lounge
59.4 km
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