Forest Canyon Overlook — Attraction in Estes Park

Welcome to the tundra, a harsh, high-elevation ecosystem in the mountains of Colorado mostly devoid of trees and prone to unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather. Summers here are brief, and because of fierce winter conditions, Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in America, is closed from mid-autumn to late spring. This unique biome is home to a variety of vibrant and colorful wildflowers that can only be found in tundra ecosystems like this one. Additionally, several fascinating and intriguing animals dwell only in these regions as well, such as the minuscule, mouse-like American Pika, and the groundhog-like Yellow-bellied Marmot. If lucky, you may also see herds of elk in these upper mountain regions as well.

If you’re driving up trail ridge road on the East Side of Rocky Mountain National Park and decided to skip the Ute-trailhead, then your first stop in the tundra will be the Forest Canyon Overlook. This is among the best spots near the paved road to watch and observe pikas and yellow-bellied marmots scurry and crawl among the steep rocky ledge next to the overlook. On a clear or mostly sunny day, this observation area also gives visitors an expansive, panoramic view of some of the park’s tallest and most majestic mountains. Far beneath the Forest Canyon Overlook is a valley dominated by pine trees, spruce trees, fir trees, and other trees that remain green throughout every season...

Great overlook off of Trail Ridge Road. This one features a small walking path to an overlook with mountains and valleys surrounding it on all sides. Because of the slopes around it, this one is great for people who are afraid of the heights since they can feel confidently grounded while still enjoying the spectacular views.

Because this requires a rocky mountain national park pass, it's $30 to go on trail ridge road for a day (currently). You could also get the America the beautiful pass for around $90 or a week pass for $35.00 (again, currently as of August 2022). You'll be driving for about 45 mins to an hour to enjoy the road up to the visitor center - but the views are worth it...

The Forest Canyon Overlook has a great view. The mountains look great during sunset and sunrise because of how the sun hits the mountains differently depending on the time of day. Also, when there are lots of clouds, sometimes you can see clouds between you and the mountains across from you. I also recommend wearing hats, gloves, sweaters or sweatshirts, and even a jacket early in the morning or later in the evening, since the temperature can drop to the forties or colder, and it is windy. So it can be quite cold. At least have them on hand in the vehicle so you can put them on if...