Rocky Mountain National Park

After breakfast, we headed to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is just minutes from Estes Park. We didn't have much of a plan and decided to start at Bear Lake. We walked around Bear Lake which had amazing views. Then, we drove up Trail Ridge Road (the highest paved road in North America) - we saw a large group of elk. We stopped at the Alpine Visitor Center for lunch (which is at 12,000 feet!). After lunch, we headed to Milner Pass, which is where the Continental Divide is located. We pulled over as we turned the corner and saw several large male elk. We got out of the car and snapped a few pictures. Pretty amazing. I'm really not sure how I have lived in Colorado for 12 years and had never been to the RMNP. It was a perfect way to spend the July 4th weekend - we are so fortunate that the National Parks exist.

Avery and Daddy ready to start the "hike"
Ryan thought he would sprint for a bit

Taking a mini-break

Mommy and Avery with a beautiful background

Family photo

We ran into some snow - Ryan didn't like that it was so dirty

Avery

Avery, Mommy, and Ryan

Our first view of elk and lots of them

Avery enjoying the view

The male elk

Daddy and Avery

Continental Divide

Down time back at the hotel

Dinner at the Rock Inn - great views and yummy food

Ryan enjoying his chicken nuggets and fries

Winding down the day at the local park