Scenic Viewpoints & Drives

Explore the high-altitude landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park through its most significant overlooks and natural landmarks. This selection features key points along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in the United States, which reaches elevations over 12,000 feet. The route highlights volcanic formations at Lava Cliffs, glacial-carved expanses in Forest Canyon, and the Continental Divide at Medicine Bow Curve. The list also includes accessible waterfalls like Adams Falls and unique geological features such as Mushroom Rocks.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is an American national park located approximately 55 mi northwest of Denver in north-central Colorado, within…

Lava Cliffs Overlook

Located along Trail Ridge Road, this site features volcanic rock formations created by lava flows approximately 26 to 28 million years ago. The dark, jagged cliffs provide a stark contrast to the surrounding alpine tundra.

Fairview Curve Viewpoint

Situated at 10,148 feet on the western side of the park, this viewpoint provides a wide panorama of the Kawuneeche Valley and the Never Summer Mountains.

Forest Canyon Overlook

A short paved path leads to an overlook of a deep, U-shaped valley carved by glaciers. Visible landmarks from this point include the Continental Divide, Hayden Gorge, and several peaks exceeding 12,000 feet.

Adams Falls

Located on the East Inlet Trail near Grand Lake, this waterfall drops through a narrow rock canyon. A 0.3-mile hike leads to the observation point overlooking the falls.

Mushroom Rocks

These unusual granite formations were shaped by erosion and are located near the Lumpy Ridge area. The balanced rocks resemble fungal shapes and are a notable geological feature.

Medicine Bow Curve

Located at 11,660 feet, this sharp turn on Trail Ridge Road offers views of the Medicine Bow Mountains in Wyoming to the north and the headwaters of the Cache la Poudre River.

Mirror Lake Overlook

This high-altitude viewpoint provides a look at a remote lake situated at approximately 11,000 feet near the base of Mount Emma in the northern section of the park.