Colorado - Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, established in 1915 and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1976, is a gem of north-central Colorado. Situated in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, this expansive park covers 415 square miles and stands as one of the highest national parks in the United States, with elevations ranging from 7,860 to 14,259 feet. The park’s highest peak, Longs Peak, rises to 14,259 feet and was named in honor of Stephen Long, an American military explorer who led an expedition to the region in 1820. A significant feature of the park is its location along the Continental Divide, which runs through Colorado and the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. The Colorado River begins its journey on the park’s west side, flowing 1,450 miles to the Gulf of California, further highlighting the park’s pivotal role in the region’s ecology. Rocky Mountain National Park boasts a variety of ecosystems that change with elevation. At lower elevations, between 5,600 and 9,500 feet, you’ll find expansive meadow valleys surrounded by hills, home to the park’s richest diversity of plant and animal life. As you ascend to around 11,000 feet, you’ll encounter picturesque mountain lakes nestled among evergreen forests. Beyond 11,000 feet, the harsh climate of the Alpine Tundra challenges life to grow close to the ground, adapting to the extreme conditions in search of warmth and survival. This diverse range of environments offers incredible opportunities for both landscape and wildlife photography. From the sweeping meadow vistas to the rugged alpine terrain, Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for capturing the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Looking for great locations for landscape and wildlife photography?
Photospotfinder can help you identify the best places to photograph landscape and wildlife.
Please log in to access all features, including an interactive map of photo locations and associated photo spots.
Login
}