Closest Airports To Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a beautiful and (one of the most) popular national parks in the United States. Many visitors come to enjoy the park’s stunning mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and extensive network of hiking trails (which, by the way, is some of the best hiking in the US.)
While the park does not have its own airport, there are several airports located within a reasonable distance that provide access to the park. In this article, we will explore the different airports that are located near Rocky Mountain National Park and provide information on how to get to the park from each airport.
Quick Links
Closest Airports to Rocky Mountain National Park
The two closest airports to Rocky Mountain National Park are Denver International Airport (DEN) and Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport (FNL).
Denver International Airport is the larger of the two airports and is located about 70 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park. The airport has flights from major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United.
- Distance From Rocky Mountain National Park: 70 miles
- Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Airlines Served: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, and more.
Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport is a smaller airport located about 37 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park. The airport has flights from Allegiant Air and has limited airline services.
- Distance From Rocky Mountain National Park: 37 miles
- Driving Time: 45 minutes
- Airlines Served: Allegiant Air
Other Airports Near Rocky Mountain National Park
There are several other airports located near Rocky Mountain National Park, but they are further away than Denver International Airport and Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is located about 130 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park. The airport has flights from major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United.
- Distance From Rocky Mountain National Park: 130 miles
- Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Airlines Served: American Airlines, Delta, United, and more.
Cheyenne Regional Airport (CYS) is located about 70 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park. The airport has flights from Great Lakes Airlines and has limited airline services.
- Distance From Rocky Mountain National Park: 70 miles
- Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Airlines Served: Great Lakes Airlines.
How to Get to Rocky Mountain National Park from the Airport
If you’re flying into Denver International Airport and planning to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, you’re in for a sweet and scenic drive. As you leave the airport, you’ll first pass through the eastern plains of Colorado, with vast fields stretching out in every direction. As you continue on, the landscape will start to change, with the Rocky Mountains slowly coming into view in the distance.
As you approach the park, the drive becomes more dramatic, with winding roads that take you higher and higher up into the mountains. You’ll pass through quaint mountain towns and drive past towering peaks covered in evergreen trees. The air will become cooler and fresher, and you may even spot some wildlife, such as elk or bighorn sheep, along the way.
It’s important to note that the drive from Denver International Airport to Rocky Mountain National Park takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and covers approximately 70 miles, as mentioned above. While the roads are well-maintained, they do include some steep inclines and sharp turns, so it’s important to exercise caution and drive carefully. Additionally, during the winter months, the roads can be snowy and icy, so be sure to check the weather conditions and prepare accordingly.
If you’re interested in learning more about the different entrances to the Rocky Mountains, check out our guide here.
Where To Stay?
Without a shadow of a doubt – The Historic Crag’s Lodge in Estes Park is the place to be.
Imagine waking up to a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains from the comfort of your own villa-style room. At Historic Crag’s Lodge, that dream is a reality. It’s also one of the highest-rated resorts in the area. AND – Rocky Mountain National Park is just a few miles away.
What Is the Closest City to Rocky Mountain National Park?
The closest city to Rocky Mountain National Park is Estes Park, Colorado. Located just outside the park’s eastern entrance, Estes Park is a charming mountain town that serves as the gateway to the park.
Estes Park is THE place to stay if you’re planning to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. The town offers a wide variety of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxury resorts, as well as restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
In addition to its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park also offers plenty of things to do for visitors. Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and rock climbing are popular in the area, as are scenic drives and wildlife viewing. The town also has a number of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and live music venues.
When it comes to dining, Estes Park has a range of options to suit every taste and budget. Some of the best restaurants in town include The Stanley Hotel’s Cascades Restaurant, Bird & Jim, Ed’s Cantina & Grill, and Claire’s Restaurant and Bar.
Overall, if you’re planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a great place to base yourself, with easy access to the park and plenty of activities and amenities to keep you entertained.
