Watch the Sunset at Forest Canyon Overlook
Estes Park, Colorado
Details
Distance
0.2 miles
Elevation Gain
32 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Jonathon Reed
Make the most of the majestic Trail Ridge Road by lingering on the mountainside until sunset to watch the tundra turn sunlit orange and the distant snowy peaks fade into night.
Trail Ridge Road is an incredible highway that crosses the mountains between Grand Lake and Estes Park, one of the most famous parts of Rocky Mountain National Park. It features incredible views of the Rockies and the Front Range, as well as the unforgettable experience of being immersed in the tundra of Sundance Mountain.
I encourage you to spend the day hiking on one of the many trails in the park. Rocky Mountain has a lot of adventures to offer, whether it's day hiking, camping, wilderness backpacking or rock climbing. But if you find yourself on Trail Ridge Road near the end of the day, or if you have the time to drive out, stop at Forest Canyon Overlook for sunset.
Forest Canyon Overlook is located halfway between the Alpine Visitor Centre and Many Parks Curve. The parking lot is just on the side of the road, with an easy quarter-mile trail to the viewpoint. Stay off the fragile tundra. Grab a camera and a warm sweater and go take in the glacier-etched vista. You'll be treated to views of Terra Tomah Mountain and Stones Peak, with the vast expanse of Forest Canyon in between.
You can learn more about night photography at Trail Ridge Road from Jason Hatfield.
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Watch the Sunset at Forest Canyon Overlook Reviews
After years spent visiting RMNP, this is still one of my favorite spots in the park. It's one of those stops I make sure to take friends and family when they visit. And it's great if you need a quick escape from the bustle of city life and can't get out on a hike to watch the sunset.
5.0
Really good spot for the evening in RMNP. This and a few other spots on Trail Ridge Rd are really great for watching sunsets.
5.0
Got some really gnarly shots of Longs Peak from here around sunset. Good place for the whole family too.
5.0
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