Rocky Mountain National Park

On Sunday, we left the resort and headed toward Rocky Mountain National Park. On the way, we stopped at Fr. Bert’s church for Sunday Mass. After a three-hour drive, we arrived at our Airbnb in Grand Lake, Colorado. Grand Lake feels much like Estes Park, but it’s smaller, less busy, and has a more local vibe. The house was perfect—overlooking the lake, right in town, and with plenty of space. It even had a hidden playroom for the little kids. Fr. Bert met us there and stayed the night before continuing on to Denver.

We also had other special guests in town—Em and her family, including her mother, brothers, and their families. The seven of us headed to their vacation home for a pizza dinner. Mary Ann and Sue had time to catch up while the kids enjoyed playing with all the other kids—something they had been missing.

The next day, we went into the park. Just like in Yellowstone, we were greeted by a moose within minutes of passing through the entrance. We made our way up to the Alpine Visitor Center at the top of the Rocky Mountains for lunch, pictures, and another visit with Em and her family. Along the way, we stopped at several scenic spots and overlooks, but none were better than Alluvial Falls. The kids had a blast climbing on the rocks at the base of the falls—joined again by their friends from the night before.

After leaving the falls, we drove out of the park to Estes Park for dinner at Mama Rose’s. I had been there many years ago and still remembered the creek behind the restaurant. On the way back through the park, we watched the sun set over the mountains, spotted more wildlife, and listened to “Bill,” our guide, along with the Jurassic Park soundtrack—instrumental music that felt perfectly matched to the scenery.

Our final day in Grand Lake was spent exploring local parks, restaurants, and shops. We also enjoyed some time at the house to relax, do laundry, and get ready for our next adventure—South Dakota.