Regardless if you visit the park in the summer or winter, a unique offering of the Rocky Mountain National Park is that each day, the park rangers provide a wide variety of activities. These activities are both fun and educational. The entire family can enjoy a walk, take a hike into the higher country, learn about campfires, study flowers, and much more. To gain more information than provided in this book, visit the Kawuneeche Visitor Center or Park Headquarters. However, to provide you with a peek into the great opportunities, consider the following, which are just a few samples of what the park offers.
If you love to fish, you will find all species in this national park. Typically, fishing is permitted in all streams and lakes with the exception of Bear Lake. However, remember that to fish anywhere, you must possess a Colorado fishing permit, which can be purchased in neighboring towns. In addition, make sure you obtain a brochure when you get your license so you know size limits and any requirements for “catch and release.” Another fun adventure in this national park is ice fishing but just as with stream or lake fishing, you will need a Colorado fishing license. Additionally, remember that some of the areas for ice fishing are remote so plan to rent or bring snowshoes or skis.
Although you can swim in this national park, remember that while the temperatures may be 80 degrees out of the water, the water itself is very cold, usually too cold to swim. Even during the hot summer months, it is common to see waters below 50 degrees. Since hypothermia is a real concern that can cause serious, problems in as little as 15 minutes, the park rangers recommend you use local public or hotel pools for your own safety.