15 Interesting Facts About Rocky Mountain National Park

Introduction:

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning national park located in the US states of Colorado. It is widely known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. The park is one of the most visited in the US, with over 4.5 million visitors in 2019 alone. In this article, we will be exploring fifteen interesting facts about this popular and iconic location.

Fact 1: Rocky Mountain National Park Was Established in 1915

The Rocky Mountain National Park was officially established on January 26th, 1915 by President Woodrow Wilson. It was designated as the 10th National Park in the United States. It is one of the most popular parks in the country, and continues to draw in thousands of visitors each year.

Fact 2: The Park is Over 415 Square Miles

Rocky Mountain National Park has an area of over 415 square miles, making it one of the larger national parks in the US. It is filled with mountains, plains, valleys, lakes, and a diverse array of wildlife that live within its boundaries. It stretches across the Continental Divide, creating an amazing area for visitors to explore.

Fact 3: The Park Contains Over 300 Peaks

The Rockies are well known for their range of mountains, and Rocky Mountain National Park contains over 300 peaks. The highest point is Longs Peak at 14,259 feet, and other famous sights include Hallet Peak, Otis Peak, Flattop Mountain, Hallett Peak, and Pagoda Mountain.

Fact 4: The Area is Home to a Wide Variety of Wildlife

The Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Mammals such as bighorn sheep, moose, deer, elk, and mountain goats live in the park, as well as smaller animals such as marmots, beavers, and porcupines. There are also a variety of birds, including hawks, eagles, and owls, as well as fish, reptiles, and amphibians.

Fact 5: The Continental Divide Passes Through the Park

The Continental Divide passes through the park, forming a natural border between east and west. This is a geological feature where water drains in different directions based on its side of the divide. On the west side, water will flow into the Pacific Ocean, while on the east side the water will flow to the Gulf of Mexico.

Fact 6: The Park is Famous for its Wildflowers

Rocky Mountain National Park is well known for its wildflowers, which bloom during the spring and summer months. The park is home to over 250 varieties of wildflowers, creating a stunning display of color throughout the park. Visitors are often surprised with the beauty of the wildflowers.

Fact 7: There are Over 350 Miles of Trails

Rocky Mountain National Park contains over 350 miles of trails, offering something for everyone. There are trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as a variety of water trails for fishing and boating. There are also a number of trails that lead to stunning views of the park.

Fact 8:The Park is Host to a Variety of Events Throughout the Year

The Rocky Mountain National Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These include fall colors, scenic drives, educational seminars, birdwatching, and more. There are also ranger-led programs that give visitors the opportunity to learn about the park.

Fact 9: Rocky Mountain National Park is Home to Gemstone Hunting

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to one of the oldest gemstone hunting sites in the US. Visitors can search for a variety of gems including amethyst, garnet, quartz, and more. Visitors are not likely to find anything valuable, but it is still a fun activity to partake in while exploring the park.

Fact 10: Trail Ridge Road is the Highest Paved Road in the US

Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in the US, and is located within the Rocky Mountain National Park. The road is over 48 miles long and reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet. It is an iconic part of the park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Fact 11: The Park is Home to Finderview Nature Center

The Finderview Nature Center is located in the Rocky Mountain National Park, and is a great place for visitors to learn about the park. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits that discuss the history, geology, wildlife, and flora of the area. There is also a library filled with books and pamphlets about the park.

Fact 12: The Park is Home to the Oldest Standing Structure in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to the oldest standing structure in Colorado, the Lulu City Administrative Building. This building was constructed in 1878 and was used by the Ute Indians. It is a registered national landmark and provides visitors with a glimpse into the history of the area.

Fact 13: The Park Offers Several Front-Country Camping Options

Rocky Mountain National Park offers several front-country camping options, giving visitors the opportunity to get out into nature. Campers can either stay at one of the designated campsites or opt to venture into the wilderness with backcountry camping.

Fact 14: The Park is Home to the World’s Largest Bighorn Sheep Herd

The Rocky Mountain National Park is home to the world’s largest bighorn sheep herd. The herd consists of over 700 bighorn sheep, and they can often be seen grazing in the upper meadows of the park.

Fact 15: The Park Offers a Variety of Ranger-Led Programs

The Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the park. These programs discuss the animals, plants, geology, history, and ecology of the area. They provide visitors with an up close look at the park and its natural wonders.

Conclusion

The Rocky Mountain National Park is an iconic location and a favorite destination for many. With its stunning scenery, wildflowers, 300 peaks, and variety of wildlife, visitors are sure to have a great time exploring this beautiful park. Learning about the history, geology, and ecology of the area can be accomplished through ranger-led programs, while outdoor activities, such as camping and gemstone hunting, provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Rocky Mountain National Park is a truly special place and one worth exploring if you ever have the chance.