Private Geology Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
Our resident geologist, Ranger Rod, will direct you through Rocky Mountain National Park from the comfort of your own vehicle. He will take photos of your group's adventure as you travel through time in RMNP witnessing evidence of major rock and mineral forming processes that took place billions of years ago. Discover ancient mountains that started rising shortly after the dinosaurs went extinct, as well as landscape formed by later volcanic eruptions. More recently (in geologic time) learn how the mountains were sculpted by massive ice age glaciers and about early human history after the valley glaciers covering the area melted 12 thousand years ago. Seeing these natural wonders through the eyes of an experienced local geologist, will evolve your worldview of mountain landscapes and enhance future RMNP adventures.
6 hour tour times are only available in the summertime when Trail Ridge Rd is open, 4 hour tour reservations are available year-round.
Options
4 hr Geology Tour
Duration: 4 hours: 4 hour geology tours are available year-round. 6 hour geology tours are summer-only.
What's included in Private Geology Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
Upon meeting Ranger Rod at the BMVC, you will explore a 3D map located in the building's basement to get good orientation of the park and its formations before passing through the RMNP entrance gate.
Rocky Mountain National Park
On your geologic tour of RMNP you will: be oriented to the park using 3D Maps explaining major geologic topography; explore evidence of the powerful tectonic, volcanic, and glacial forces that created the park’s landscape; decipher the geologic story behind the breathtaking scenic vistas of the park’s best overlooks and active wildlife habitats; learn how to recognize major RMNP rocks and minerals, including metamorphic Gneiss and Schist, and intrusive and volcanic rocks from inner earth; locate 5 ancient glacial valleys and today’s 8 named glaciers along with prominent peaks, and the park’s 3 mountain ranges. Relive Indigenous American legacies dating back over 11 thousand years and colorful pioneer history starting in 1800’s.
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
After your tour, you will return to the BMVC
Inclusions
- Retired Geologist, Professional Guide
- Gear Rentals (when needed)
- Timed Entry Reservations (when required)
- Professional Photos (digital download)
- Gratuities
- RMNP Day Pass ($30)
- Transportation
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair accessible
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- This is the main visitor center for the park. Please park in the upper lot, not in the one hour parking. Please look for the guide car as described in your booking confirmation email. Your guide will then get into your vehicle and direct you through the park.
