Rocky Mountain National Park:Star Tour

Imagine gazing up at a sky so clear and dark that the stars seem close enough to touch. For those seeking a memorable evening in Colorado’s most iconic landscape, the Rocky Mountain National Park: Star Tour offers a three-hour adventure that combines breathtaking night sky views with expert guidance and fun photography tips. Priced at $159 per person, this tour is a perfect pick for travelers who love nature, photography, or simply want to see the stars like never before.

Led by knowledgeable guides like Rick (who many reviews praise for his friendly, informative style), this small-group experience keeps things intimate—limited to just 10 participants—ensuring everyone gets personal attention. The tour departs from Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, making it a convenient and flexible option without needing a pre-booked park pass or reservation.

Two things we really like about this experience? First, how the guide teaches you to get the most out of your cell phone camera for night photography, turning your phone into a star-meets-snapshot device. Second, the inclusion of digital photos of you under the stars, so you can remember this special night long after it ends.

A possible consideration is the drive involved—about 45 minutes to the first stop on dark, winding roads. Reviewers note the roads are pitch black and a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not used to nighttime driving or have concerns about safety on mountain roads. It’s worth preparing for that part of the journey if you’re sensitive to darkness or narrow roads.

This tour suits those who crave authentic outdoor experiences in a stunning setting, appreciate expert guides, and enjoy capturing their trips with photos. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, educational, and visually spectacular night adventure in a relaxed group setting.

Key Points

• Expert guidance makes learning about the night sky accessible and fun.
• Professional digital photos help preserve the memory of your starry evening.
• Limited group size ensures a more personal and comfortable experience.
• Easy walking on well-managed paths makes the experience accessible for most.
• No reservation needed for park entry, simplifying logistics.
• Strong reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Rocky Mountain Night Sky in Detail

What the Tour Offers

This three-hour tour provides a rare chance to see the night sky in Rocky Mountain National Park without the usual limitations of dark, unlit wilderness. Starting at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, the guide takes you in your vehicle to some of their favorite spots, where the night sky is most visible and unobstructed.

The experience is designed for easy walking—up to 200 yards—and involves visits to several scenic vantage points. The guide, Rick, (or similar knowledgeable guides) will teach you how to use your cell phone for night photography, transforming your basic snapshots into memorable keepsakes. You’ll receive 3 digital photos after the tour, with options to purchase larger, professionally processed prints at a discount.

The Scenic Stops

While the exact locations aren’t specified, the tour promises stunning viewpoints that showcase the vastness of the Colorado sky. Many travelers mention that the stops provide breathtaking views of stars, constellations, and celestial objects, all visible away from city lights.

One of the highlights is the professional guidance on night photography, which helps you learn techniques for capturing the stars with your phone—a skill that turns simple snapshots into impressive nightscapes. As one reviewer noted, Rick’s explanations of photography tricks were “wonderful,” making the experience both fun and educational.

The Drive and Logistics

The tour involves a 45-minute drive on mountain roads—mostly pitch black and winding. You’ll be asked to follow your guide in your vehicle, which means you should feel comfortable driving at night in a remote setting. The roads are traveled by cars, and the guide checks on everyone’s safety, but it’s a part of the experience that can be intimidating for some, especially if you’re unfamiliar with mountain driving or uncomfortable in darkness.

Importantly, no reservation is needed to enter the park, which adds a layer of flexibility, especially during busy summer months when park reservations can be mandatory for some areas.

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What to Bring & Considerations

• Warm clothing and comfortable shoes are essential since it gets cold at night—especially on mountain elevations.
• Since drinks and snacks aren’t included, bringing some water or a snack might make the wait more pleasant.
• Be prepared for the drive; fill your gas tank beforehand as the roads are remote and unlit.
• If you’re prone to fears of darkness or heights, the pitch-black roads and scenic stops may require some mental preparation.

Authentic Experiences & Real Feedback

Reviewers consistently speak of Rick’s friendly, knowledgeable approach. “Rick was funny, knowledgeable about the sites we stopped at, and knew exactly how to get the best shots of our group under the stars,” one traveler shared. Others mention the stunning views—”breathtaking,” “amazing,” and “absolutely worth it” are common words in reviews.

While most find the entire experience very positive, some note concerns about the drive—”the roads were pitch black,” or “I held my breath that the cars would go into us.” These comments highlight that patience and comfort with mountain driving are important considerations.

The photos are another highlight for many—”got amazing photos and the professional ones I’m so excited to receive”—although a reviewer did mention not receiving their pictures, showing that sometimes the process can be delayed or issues can happen.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $159, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but considering the inclusion of guided instruction, scenic stops, digital photos, and the experience of being under the stars in a protected national park setting, many find it a good value. It’s a chance to combine education, photography, and natural beauty into one evening.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy being outdoors, want to learn more about the night sky, and appreciate guided insights. It’s also perfect for photo enthusiasts or those looking for a unique Colorado memory. Keep in mind that it’s not suitable if you’re uncomfortable with mountain roads or nighttime driving.

Final Thoughts

The Rocky Mountain National Park: Star Tour offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a nighttime wilderness experience with expert guidance in a relaxed, small-group setting. It combines stunning views of the stars with practical photography lessons, making it a worthwhile addition to your Colorado itinerary if you enjoy nature and learning new skills.

While the drive and dark roads are something to prepare for, most reviewers agree that the breathtaking views and fun guidance make this a memorable, worthwhile adventure. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want an authentic, educational experience that goes beyond just gazing at stars—learning how to capture that beauty on their phones or through prints.

If you’re after a truly special night under the Colorado skies and don’t mind a bit of mountain driving, this tour is a solid choice. Just dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a starry night you won’t forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a park reservation to join the tour?
No, this tour includes a pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, and you won’t need a separate reservation to join.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting in the evening, with about 2 hours on location at scenic spots.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The walk involves easy walking up to 200 yards, which most should manage comfortably, but those with specific mobility needs should clarify with the provider.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and any personal items you might need for cold weather. Drinks and snacks are not included.

Does the tour provide photos?
Yes, it includes 3 digital photos of you under the stars, sent 2-3 weeks afterward. Prints are available at a discounted rate.

Is this tour good for photography beginners?
Absolutely—guides teach cell phone night photography, making it accessible to all skill levels.

What if I’m afraid of the dark or mountain roads?
The roads are dark and winding; if this makes you uncomfortable, consider whether you’re prepared for the drive aspect.

Can I re-enter the park after the tour?
Yes, once the tour is over, you are free to explore the park on your own, but during summer reservations are required for some areas, so plan accordingly.

In brief, the Rocky Mountain National Park: Star Tour offers a beautiful, educational, and fun night out. It’s perfect for those looking to combine natural beauty with photography and learning in a small, friendly group. Just remember to bundle up and keep an open mind for the mountain roads—your starry night awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: