Set at a lofty height of 11,798 feet (3,596 metres), this high-altitude facility affords far-reaching views across the Rocky Mountain alpine tundra.
Perched at the top of the scenic Trail Ridge Road, Alpine Visitor Center is the highest located center of its kind in all of the U.S. National Park system. Browse exhibits about the alpine tundra environment, purchase Rocky Mountains-themed souvenirs and admire the extraordinary views across the surrounding mountains.
Travel to the visitor center via Trail Ridge Road. The highest continuous paved road in the country, Trail Ridge Road extends for 48 miles (77 kilometers), from Estes Park in the east of the park all the way to Grand Lake on the west. Enjoy sweeping views across the wilderness as you steer your way along.
At the highest point of the trail sits the Alpine Visitor Center. Inspect the exhibits inside, which detail the flora and fauna of the park. Park rangers are also on hand to answer any questions you may have about the alpine tundra habitat and can also advise you about trails leading off from the center. If you do attempt a trail, remember to drink plenty of water it’s important to stay hydrated while at high altitude.
Head out onto the observation deck to marvel at the breathtaking views. Early in the season, the landscape will be covered in snow, while in late summer, alpine wildflowers can be seen in full bloom. See if you can spot any elk roaming around the lower slopes of the park’s peaks. Enjoy a drink in the on-site café and shop for souvenirs in the gift shop.
To get an idea of the kind of panoramas you can expect from here, look up the Alpine Visitor Center’s webcam online. The webcam faces east from the observation deck, overlooking Fall River Cirque, a valley carved by glaciers.
Find the Alpine Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park at the junction of Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. The center is open daily from around late May until late October. The center is only open when Trail Ridge Road is accessible check online to see the status of the road before you set off. A parking lot and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are located on site.
