Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Reservations

RMNP Timed Entry

Guide to the Timed Entry Permit System for Rocky Mountain National Park

Between May 27th and October 10th, 2022, visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park are required to follow the guidelines of the Timed Entry Permit System. You won’t want to miss the gorgeous scenery and outdoor adventure that awaits in the 415 square miles of protected park area. Visitors can explore more than 300 miles of hiking trails while looking out for wildflowers, wildlife, and stunning viewpoints. Learn more about the timed-entry permit system and how to make your trip to the park as seamless as possible during your stay in an Estes Park vacation rental!

Two Options for Timed Entry Permit Reservations

The first type of timed permit option allows for access into the Bear Lake Road Corridor as well as the rest of the park. This permit allows for entry windows between the times of 5:00 AM and 6:00 PM Mountain Standard Time. Reservations are not required before 5:00 AM or after 6:00 PM but reservations are recommended for you to be able to access the park during the main period of the day.  

The second permit allows visitors to visit the majority of Rocky Mountain National Park, excluding the Bear Lake Road Corridor. With this permit option, the reservation period is open with windows between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM Mountain Standard Time. Again, reservations are not required to enter the park before 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM.  

Upon reserving a timed entry permit, you will receive the two-hour time window that designates when you are meant to enter the park. Reservations must be secured in advance as they are not available at park offices or park entrances. There is a $2 reservation processing fee. 

Here are a few ways to make a reservation: 

  • Call the Reservation Line: 877-444-6777 
  • Via the reservation.gov mobile app 

Second Requirement: Park Pass or an Entry Fee 

In addition to the timed reservation permit, visitors must also have either a park pass or paid the park entry fee. Whether you already have an annual pass or plan on buying a day pass, you can find the option that works best for your plans!

Check out which passes qualify: 

Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance Fees and Pass 

  • 1-Day Pass Automobile: $25  
  • 1-Day Pass Per Person: $15  
  • 1-Day Pass Motorcycle: $25  
  • Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Pass: $70

America the Beautiful Passes 

  • Annual: $80  
  •  Annual Pass for Military: Free  
  •  Annual or Lifetime Senior Pass: $20 or $80   
  • Access Pass: Free  
  • Volunteer Pass: Free 

Start Planning Your Estes Park Escape!


Fall River Village sits just a 5 minute walk from downtown Estes Park, making it a perfect home-base for a getaway in the Rocky Mountains. Book one of our Estes Park vacation rental condos or townhomes to enjoy views of the Continental Divide and community amenities including an outdoor pool, fire pit and grills, and a yard with games and hammocks. This is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park!Browse All Estes Park Vacation Rentals