Rocky Mountain National Park has announced details for the 2025 reservation system. Reservations will be required beginning on May 23, according to a park release.
The 2025 system will be similar to 2024, with two types of reservations available.
Bear Lake Corridor reservation
One permit will be for the Bear Lake Road Corridor, which includes access to the rest of the park. Visitors will need a reservation to enter between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. Reservations will be required until October 20.
The Bear Lake Corridor reservation will give you access to key destinations, including the Moraine Park Area, Sprague Lake, the Park & Ride Parking Area, Bierstadt Lake Parking Area & Trailhead and Glacier Gorge Parking Area & Trailhead.
“Rest of Park” reservation
The second permit will be for the “rest of the park,” excluding the Bear Lake Road corridor. Visitors will need a reservation to enter between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reservations will be required until October 14.
Permit details
Permits will allow park visitors to enter the area of the park corresponding with their reservation within a two-hour window of availability, with no set time for departure.
Reservations to enter the park will be available through www.recreation.gov for a $2 processing fee following the schedule below.
- Beginning at 8 a.m. MT on Thursday, May 1. This round of reservations will be available to enter the park from May 24 through June 30.
- The next release will occur on June 1, for the month of July and any remaining days that have not been booked for June.
- On July 1, reservations will be available for the month of August and any remaining days that have not been booked for July.
- On Aug. 1, reservations will be available for the month of September and any remaining days in August that have not been booked.
- On Sept. 1, reservations will be available for October and any remaining days in September that have not been booked.
The park first piloted a timed entry system in 2016 and established the official Day Use Visitor Access Plan in May 2024. The plan aims to manage day use visitor access in a way that protects the park’s resources, maintains positive visitor experiences, promotes safety and supports the park’s ability to maintain daily operations.
Park officials advise visitors to take time to “consider your preparedness, skills, fitness and experience” when planning your visit to the park. Before starting any trip, take time to explore the park’s website and plan ahead for a safer and more enjoyable visit.
