Rocky Mountain National Park:Star Tour

Traveling to Colorado and looking for a unique way to enjoy the night? This Rocky Mountain National Park: Star Tour might just be what you’re after. It’s a three-hour excursion that promises a peek into the universe above, along with some helpful tips on capturing those perfect night sky shots with your cell phone. With a solid rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 23 reviews, it seems like folks who’ve gone on this tour generally come away quite pleased.

What we love about this experience? First, the small group size (limited to just 10 participants) really helps keep everything intimate and manageable, especially at night. Second, the guides’ knowledge about stars and photography shines through—many reviewers mention how much they learned and how much better their photos turned out. The only potential hiccup is the drive to the first stop, which involves about 45 minutes on dark, winding roads, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or get nervous in pitch-black conditions, that’s something to consider.

This tour is a great pick for those who want a relaxed, informative night out under the stars, especially if you’re into photography or simply love a good night sky show. It’s not necessarily designed for families with small children, as the focus on night walking and the drive might be best suited for older kids or adults ready for a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal feel.
• Educational: Learn how to use your cell phone for night photography.
• Photo Bonus: Receive 3 digital photos of you under the stars, with options for prints.
• Scenic Locations: Visit some of the favorite night spots in Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Drive Included: About 45 minutes of driving to the initial stop, with some road safety considerations.
• Flexible Entry: No reservation needed for the park, and no need for a timed-entry permit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour is a thoughtfully curated window into the Colorado night sky, set against the stunning backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park. Starting at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, the guides will meet you outside, ready to lead the way in your vehicle. From there, you’ll follow them to some of their favorite night spots—each spot carefully chosen for optimal stargazing and minimal light pollution.

The walk itself is easy—up to 200 yards—and mostly involves stopping at scenic vantage points to take in the stars. The guides offer step-by-step instructions on how to maximize your cell phone’s night photography capabilities. Whether you’re a tech novice or a budding photographer, you’ll pick up tips to improve your shots under the dark sky.

You’ll spend approximately two hours on location, where the sky often reveals its most impressive features: constellations, planets, and perhaps even the Milky Way if the conditions are right. As the tour wraps up, you’ll receive 3 digital photos of your group under the stars, sent within a few weeks. There’s also an option to buy professionally processed prints, up to 24 x 36 inches, at a discounted rate—perfect for souvenirs.

The Drive and Logistics

The tour involves a roughly 45-minute drive from the visitor center to the first stop, which is in the darker, higher parts of the park. The roads are narrow and unlit, so it’s worth dressing warmly and being comfortable with nighttime driving. The guide will check in on everyone’s safety during the drive, but some travelers have expressed concerns about the pitch-black roads and the potential for scary moments near cliffs or busy roads.

You won’t need to worry about park reservations or permits—no timed-entry permit is required for this tour—but you will need a pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. Once the tour is over, you’re free to explore the park on your own, which makes this a flexible option for those who want an evening adventure without extra planning.

The Experience and the Guide

Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and friendly approach. Rick, the main guide, is praised for his humor, patience, and ability to explain complex photography tricks in a simple way. Multiple reviewers mention how much they learned about the stars and how to capture better photos, which is a real plus for those who want to take home more than just memories—like some great pictures to share.

The small group size fosters a relaxed environment, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. The guide’s attentiveness, especially in ensuring everyone feels safe during the drive and at the stops, helps create a positive atmosphere.

The Pros and Cons

Pros
– The small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
– Learn night photography skills from a knowledgeable guide.
– The stunning night views of the park make for an unforgettable experience.
– Digital photos are included, with options for professional prints.
– No need for a timed-entry permit, simplifying planning.

Cons
– The drive to the first stop involves dark, winding roads, which might be uncomfortable for some.
– Some travelers wish for more star explanations—the focus is more on photography than astronomy.
– It can be cold at night, so dressing warmly is essential.
– The photos are sent weeks later, which might be a long wait for some.
– Drinks and snacks are not included, so bring your own if you need a little extra warmth or energy.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves stargazing or photography, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. It offers an educational angle without being overly technical, making it accessible for a variety of skill levels. The emphasis on small groups and personalized attention makes it ideal if you prefer more intimate experiences rather than large bus tours.

This tour works well for travelers who are comfortable in the dark and don’t mind a bit of driving on unlit roads. If your main goal is to learn how to improve night photos or simply enjoy an evening under the stars, this is a solid choice. But if you’re looking for a more astronomical or family-friendly outing, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Rocky Mountain National Park: Star Tour offers a memorable way to see the night sky through a lens of learning and scenic beauty. The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and the chance to improve your night photography skills makes it appealing. While the drive and some of the darker night settings require a bit of comfort with the dark, most travelers seem to find the experience well worth it.

For those who want a relaxed, informative, and visually spectacular evening, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, want to capture their night sky memories, and appreciate small, personable groups. If that sounds like your kind of outing, this tour might just brighten up your Colorado trip—literally and figuratively.

FAQ

Do I need a reservation or timed-entry permit for the park?
No, this tour does not require a timed-entry permit, but you will need a park pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park.

How long is the drive to the first stop?
The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, and roads are pitch black and narrow, so be prepared for a nighttime drive through the park.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and any personal items like snacks or drinks. Remember, it can get quite cold at night.

Are the photos professionally taken?
No, the photos are digital and taken during the tour, then sent to you via email within 2-3 weeks. You can also choose to buy prints at a discounted rate.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour involves night walking and a drive in dark conditions, so it’s best suited for older kids or adults comfortable with those settings.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s $159 per person, which includes three digital photos and instruction on night photography.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re eager to see the Colorado night sky with guidance and safety, this tour can deliver a memorable, picture-worthy experience. Just remember to dress warmly, be comfortable with the dark, and enjoy the beauty of the stars above Rocky Mountain National Park.

You can check availability for your dates here: