RMNP RESERVATIONS
Beginning on May 23, 2025, a timed entry reservation will be required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park during certain hours of the day. This system will be similar to the system used in 2024 and there will be two different types of reservations available to choose from:
- Timed Entry (does not include access to Bear Lake Road)
- Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road
RMNP's timed entry reservation system, established through the Day Use Visitor Access Plan finalized in May 2024, manages day use visitor access in a way that maintains positive visitor experiences, promotes safety, supports the park’s ability to maintain daily operations, and protects the park's resources. Timed entry reservations spread visitor use out throughout the day and throughout the park.

NPS Graphic
Details on Timed Entry Reservations (does not include access to Bear Lake Road)
These reservations will provide reservation holders access to all areas in Rocky Mountain National Park, excluding areas within RMNP's Bear Lake Road Corridor, located on the east side of the park. Timed Entry Reservations are best for those planning to drive over Trail Ridge Road, visit Alpine Visitor Center, explore the west side of the park, hike at Wild Basin or visit any area of Rocky Mountain National Park located outside of the Bear Lake Road Corridor.
When are Timed Entry Reservations needed to enter the park?
- Timed Entry Reservations will be needed to enter Rocky Mountain National Park between the hours of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily beginning on Friday, May 23 through Monday, October 13, 2025.
- Don't have a reservation? That's ok! You can enter the park before 9 a.m. or anytime after 2 p.m. without a timed entry reservation.
Details on Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservations
Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservations will provide reservation holders access to RMNP's popular Bear Lake Road Corridor, located on the east side of the park near Beaver Meadows Entrance. These reservations will also provide access to all other areas of Rocky Mountain National Park.
These reservations are best for those who plan to visit destinations inside the Bear Lake Road Corridor, including Moraine Park, Sprague Lake, Park & Ride Parking Area, Glacier Gorge Trailhead, and Bear Lake.
When are Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservations needed to enter the park?
- Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservations will be needed to enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor between the hours of 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from May 23 through Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Additional Details to Know Before Making a Reservation:
All timed entry reservations allow park visitors to enter RMNP within designated 2-hour windows of time. Once you enter the park, stay as long as you like. There is no set time for departure. The reservation system will apply to all areas of Rocky Mountain National Park.
If you have a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservation, you must enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor within your designated 2-hour window of time. If you miss your designated window of time, you will be asked to turn around and come back to Bear Lake Road anytime after 2 p.m.
Also, if you have a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservation, be advised that if you enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor and then want to exit and return to the Bear Lake Road Corridor later in the day, know that re-entry is only allowed after 2 p.m.
- For example, if you enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor using a 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. reservation and then want to leave and return later in the day, you may re-enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor anytime after 2 p.m.
How Much Do Timed Entry Reservations Cost?
- The only cost associated with making a timed entry reservation is a non-refundable $2 Recreation.gov processing fee.

Timed entry reservations will be released on a first-come, first-served basis on Recreation.gov based on the following schedule:
Release Date | Reservation Dates |
May 1 at 8 a.m. MDT | May 23 - June 30 |
June 1 at 8 a.m. MDT | July 1 - July 31 |
July 1 at 8 a.m. MDT | August 1 - August 31 |
August 1 at 8 a.m. MDT | September 1 - September 30 |
September 1 at 8 a.m. MDT | October 1 - October 19 |
Additional timed entry reservations will be released first-come, first-served on Recreation.gov at 7 p.m. MDT on the night before a desired arrival date. These will sell out quickly, it is best to plan ahead.
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