A Rutin' Good Time; Elk Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this tour your guide will take you to hotspots in Rocky Mountain National Park to witness the elk rut or mating season. With around 3,000 elk in RMNP during this time of year you will get to witness large herds, massive bugling bulls, and maybe even a fight or two. Your guide will explain all about the elk and their migratory and mating habits, you will also be able to learn other information about Rocky and its other animal inhabitants. This tour takes place right around sunrise and sunset as those are the peak times for mating rituals and activity. Optics will be supplied as well as complimentary snacks and beverages. This is the best way and by far the best vehicle to see the elk rut!
Available options
A Rutin' Good Time; Elk Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
What's included
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Binoculars/optics
Snacks
Park Admission
Timed Entry
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional Guide/Driver
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your tour by checking in inside our store front
2
Travel through the eastern side of RMNP and search the valleys looking for large herds of bugling Elk! Learn all about the mating season while watching large numbers of elk.
3
Start and end your tour at our Office in downtown and travel through the scenic gateway town of Estes Park
4
Enjoy the beauty of the great state of Colorado and see some of the over half a million head of Elk the state has while they Rut in RMNP
5
Finish back at our store
What's not included
Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please bring your own car seats for infants, boosters seats may be available for small children to use at our office.
Meeting point
Please check-in insidethe Purple Points Tour Company store front 15 minutes before your tour.
Important notes
Printed tickets are not needed but please check in inside our office 10-15 min before your tour
About Estes Park
Estes Park, Colorado, is a charming mountain town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, serving as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and quaint downtown area, Estes Park offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Rocky Mountain National Park
One of the most visited national parks in the U.S., offering stunning landscapes, wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to multiple days
$35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
An aerial tramway offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and Estes Valley.
Adventure
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, $10 for children
Downtown Estes Park
A charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Cultural
A few hours
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rocky Mountain Oysters
Deep-fried bull testicles, a local delicacy.
Appetizer
Not vegetarian or vegan
Bison Burger
A burger made with bison meat, often served with local toppings.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Wildlife watching
Visiting art galleries
Attending local events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm days, cool nights, and all activities and attractions fully operational.
15-25°C
60-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Estes Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of wildlife, weather conditions, and potential hazards in the national park.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of wildlife
- • Check weather conditions before hiking
- • Stay on marked trails
Getting there
By air
- Denver International Airport • 105 km (65 miles)
By bus
Estes Park Visitor Center
Getting around
Public transport
The shuttle service is convenient but has limited routes and schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Estes Park
Marys Lake Road
Day trips
Grand Lake
40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day
A picturesque lake town with beautiful views, hiking trails, and water activities.
Boulder
72 km (45 miles) • Full day
A vibrant college town with a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a thriving food scene.
Festivals
Estes Park Winter Festival • February
Estes Park Jazz Fest • July
Pro tips
- Visit Rocky Mountain National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack layers of clothing to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Use the Estes Park Shuttle for convenient and affordable transportation to the national park.
- Try local specialties like Rocky Mountain oysters and bison burgers.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
