Known for the large herd of elk living in the park that provide countless hours of enjoyment to visitors all throughout the year, especially in the fall during the rutting season, there are also many other animals that live in the park inclucing moose, bighorn sheep, coyotes, mule deer, black bears, cougars, marmot, pika, and many smaller animals. It also contains a number of bird species and in 2000, was designated a Global Important Bird Area recognizing the vital role the park in the perpetuation of bird species.
Located in northern Colorado northwest of Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is a showcase of the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. It was given national park status and protection by congress in 1915.
Elevations ranging from 8,000 feet in the wet, grassy valleys, Moraine Park and West Horseshoe Park to the weather-ravaged alpine tundra along Fall River at over 12,000 feet and Longs Peak at 14,259 feet, provide countless breathtaking experiences and adventures all year long.
Containing the headwaters of the Colorado River as well as 150 lakes and 450 miles of streams, the park has a valuable riparian (wetland) ecosystem which seperates the sub-alpine forests and alpine tundras at higher elevation.