Elevation Map Of Rocky Mountains
Top Attractions
The Rocky Mountains are home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Some of the top attractions include Banff National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Glacier National Park. Visitors can also explore Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Rushmore, and the Garden of the Gods.
Hidden Gems
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Rocky Mountains have plenty of hidden gems. These include the Maroon Bells, a pair of peaks located in Colorado’s Elk Mountains, the Crystal Mill, a historic mill located in the Crystal River Valley, and the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, a 83-mile loop that takes visitors through some of New Mexico’s most beautiful landscapes.
Food Scene
The Rocky Mountains are known for their hearty cuisine, including dishes such as bison burgers, elk steaks, and Rocky Mountain oysters. Visitors can also sample local craft beer and wine, as well as farm-to-table cuisine at restaurants such as Mercantile Dining & Provision in Denver and The Kitchen in Boulder.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget in the Rocky Mountains is possible with a bit of planning. Visitors can save money by camping instead of staying in hotels, cooking their own meals instead of eating out, and taking advantage of free activities such as hiking and exploring national parks.
Outdoor Adventures
The Rocky Mountains offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, camping, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and whitewater rafting. Visitors can also explore scenic drives such as the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado and the Beartooth Highway in Montana.
Historical Landmarks
The Rocky Mountains have a rich history, and visitors can explore many historical landmarks such as the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, where the Battle of Little Bighorn took place, and Mesa Verde National Park, home to ancient cliff dwellings.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families with children will find plenty of activities to enjoy in the Rocky Mountains, including visiting the Denver Zoo, taking a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and exploring the Children’s Museum of Denver.
Natural Wonders
The Rocky Mountains are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, including the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors can also explore the Garden of the Gods, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Painted Desert.
Vibrant Nightlife
Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene will find plenty to enjoy in cities such as Denver, Boulder, and Salt Lake City. These cities have a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore.
Local Markets
The Rocky Mountains are home to many local markets where visitors can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local products. Some of the top markets include the Boulder Farmers Market, the Santa Fe Farmers Market, and the Jackson Hole Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While the Rocky Mountains are not known for their beaches, visitors can still enjoy sandy shores at places like Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. The mountains themselves offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring, with stunning vistas and challenging terrain.
Cultural Immersion
Visitors to the Rocky Mountains can immerse themselves in local culture by attending festivals such as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and the Aspen Food & Wine Classic. They can also explore museums such as the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming and the Denver Art Museum.
Art and Music Scene
The Rocky Mountains have a thriving art and music scene, with galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Visitors can explore the Santa Fe art galleries, attend concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, and enjoy live music at festivals such as the Vail Jazz Festival.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can take a historic walking tour of Denver, explore the art galleries of Santa Fe, or stroll through the charming town of Jackson, Wyoming.
Architectural Marvels
The Rocky Mountains are home to many architectural marvels, including the Denver Union Station, a historic train station that has been transformed into a modern transportation hub, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a stunning church built into the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona.
Historical Sites
The Rocky Mountains have a rich history, and visitors can explore many historical sites such as the Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, a reconstructed trading post from the 1830s, and the Fort Union National Monument, a former military fort on the Santa Fe Trail.
Biking Routes
The Rocky Mountains offer some of the best biking routes in the world, with options for all skill levels. Visitors can explore the Colorado Trail, a 500-mile route through the Rocky Mountains, or take a leisurely ride along the Rio Grande Trail in Colorado.
Wellness Retreats
For those seeking a wellness retreat, the Rocky Mountains have plenty of options. Visitors can explore hot springs such as Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado and Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa in New Mexico, or book a yoga retreat at places like Shambhala Mountain Center in Colorado and the Ojai Valley Inn in California.
Adventure Sports
The Rocky Mountains are a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts, with options for skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, and more. Visitors can also try their hand at extreme sports such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and zip-lining.