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From
the Rocky Mountain National Park Web Site
Established
on January 26, 1915, Rocky Mountain National Park is a living
showcase of the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. With elevations
ranging from 8,000 feet in the wet, grassy valleys to 14,259
feet at the weather-ravaged top of Longs Peak, a visitor to
the park has opportunities for countless breathtaking experiences
and adventures.
Elk, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, coyotes,
cougars, eagles, hawks and scores of smaller animals delight
wildlife-watchers of all ages. Wildflower-lovers are never disappointed
in June and July when the meadows and hillsides are splashed
with botanical color. Autumn visitors can relax among the golden
aspens or enjoy the rowdier antics of the elk rut (mating season).
359 miles of trail offer endless opportunities to hikers, backpackers
and horseback riders. Fly fishers, bird-watchers and photographers
discover the splendor that they traveled so far to find. During
the winter, snowshoers and cross-country skiers revel in the
white-blanketed tranquility of meadows and forests.
60 peaks rising above 12,000 feet challenge intrepid hikers
and climbers. Anyone visiting between Memorial Day and late
autumn can see many of these peaks eye-to-eye by driving over
Trail Ridge Road. Topping out at 12,183 feet, this is the highest,
continuous, paved road in the United States. |