Clearing Up the Timed Entry System at Rocky Mountain National Park

If you're planning to visit the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park this summer, it's essential to understand the new timed entry system. The system, which will help manage park traffic and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors, goes into effect on Friday, May 24th. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to secure your spot in one of the most beautiful places on earth!

What Is the Timed Entry System?

Starting May 24th, timed entry permits will be required to enter the park during specific hours. There are two types of permits available, depending on which part of the park you wish to visit:

• Bear Lake Road Corridor Permit: This permit grants access to the entire Bear Lake Road Corridor and the rest of the park. The hours for this permit are from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Rest of the Park Permit: This permit is valid for entry to the remainder of the park, excluding the Bear Lake Corridor. Available from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Visitors will be able to enter the park within a 2-hour window, but there is no set departure time. If you miss out on securing a reservation, don’t worry — you can still enter the park during non-reserved hours or at 7:00 p.m. each night, when additional reservations for the following day are released.

Key Dates to Remember

The timed entry system for the Bear Lake Road Corridor will run until October 20th, while the rest of the park’s timed entry system will end on October 15th. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out on your desired entry time!

How to Secure Your Reservation

Booking your timed entry reservation is simple. Starting May 1st at 8:00 a.m. Mountain Time, reservations for entry from May 24th to June 30th will be available on Recreation.gov. Reservations for July and beyond will open on June 1st, with more slots becoming available each month. There’s a small $2 fee for processing the reservation, but you’ll still need to have a park pass to enter the park. Remember, a park pass and a timed entry reservation are separate requirements!

Plan Ahead and Enjoy the Adventure

Whether you're an experienced visitor or new to Rocky Mountain National Park, this new system ensures that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the park without overcrowding. With stunning views, hiking trails, and wildlife, there’s something for everyone to experience. Just be sure to plan ahead and secure your timed entry reservation to make the most of your adventure.

Thank you for tuning in! We hope this clears up any confusion about the timed entry system. Until next time, happy exploring in Rocky Mountain National Park!