Checking One More National Park on My Bucket List!

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We all have a Bucket List. Some of us have it written down, some of us hold it in their heart and mind, but it’s there. On my Bucket List is a visit to each USA National Parks. I have crossed a few off my list already but this week was a big one.

Visiting the National Parks

Practicing what I am preaching, we finally were able to go visit a National Park! After reading all about the National Parks and hiking we made plans to go and visit the one closest to us. And, I am afraid to confess, one we had never been to…

Rocky Mountain National Park

On January 26th, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Rocky Mountain National Park Act, making the over 350 square miles surrounding Estes Park, Colorado, the 10th National Park. The scenic and natural wonders of the park will take your breath away. Rich wildlife, flora and landscapes are everywhere. Driving along the twisted roads new stunning views unfold one after the other. While on the trail every bend brings a new discovery. I am so glad that 110 years ago someone had the wisdom to see the worth of protecting the beauty of our mountains.

Our visit

Our visit was way too short, but we were able to get a good glimpse of the park and we will definitely be back. We arrived late since I was picking up campers from Annunciation Heights. A couple of my girls and their friends had just spent 3 days soaking in nature and learning all about rock formations, astronomy and clouds. They had a fantastic time! We arrived at the Bear Lake trailhead around 1:00 and after a quick lunch headed first to Nymph Lake. We had some small people with us and an easy hike was a must. This was definitely an easy mile or so round trip, I never even got out of breath, lol! We then headed to Bear Lake and walked all around the lake and admired its stunning views.

Wildlife

We encountered quite a few residents of the park and it was delightful!

Steller’s Jay

This adult Steller’s jay kept us company during our lunch and gorged himself on the littles’ crumbs.

Grey Jay

This fellow was either really hungry or fearless! He came right into my 11yo’s hand, totally making her day. She’s my bird lady and the owner of the white pigeons. It was a fantastic experience and the highlight of our  visit.

Red Fox

Out for his daily walk, Mr. Fox just stuck to the trail and was absolutely undisturbed by our presence (and noise). He just trotted along on his way to his destination like we were not even there. This was a first for me. I had never seen a live fox in the wild.

Chipmunks

Always the youngest sets’ favorites, chipmunks are absolutely everywhere and so very fun to watch. Darting in and out, over and under, these little rodents are hard to catch on camera. They do provide you with lots of giggles though as you try to catch or attract them.

Elks

And of course the star of the show at Rocky Mountain National Park is the majestic elk. We saw several bulls and herds throughout Estes Park itself and in meadows throughout the park. Unfortunately, since I was driving, I was not able to capture them on camera.

Ice bubbles!

I had never seen this phenomenon before and it was stunningly beautiful! The pictures do not do it justice. These ice “bubbles” for lack of another name, were just hanging around the edge of Bear Lake on the North shore. Some were in the water but most were slightly suspended above the water. This was so beautiful and fun to try to capture on camera, without falling in.

The details

We stayed only a couple hours but we did it! Since we had a fourth grader with us, we did not feel guilty about staying such a short time and we will try to make it back soon. The weather was ideal with clear blue skies, a slight breeze and a balmy 44 degrees. Everyone was well bundled up and it made all the difference. We had a lovely time, and honestly it was just long enough for the youngest crowd. Any longer might have ruined the whole thing. I wish the park’s entrance wasn’t so pricey, it would make it easier to go for short hikes with kids. There was a little snow on the ground, a slight dusting and the preschoolers loved it!

Just do it!

This was really a just do it moment. We were in Estes to pick up kiddos and decided to make a day of it. But it was worth the extra drive and time. We all had a wonderful day! Now I am ready to plan more National Parks visits for 2026!
Love,
Mattie