Rocky Mountain National Park Etiquette During the Shutdown

When the government shuts down, the people who care for our parks feel it first. Rangers, maintenance crews, and seasonal staff face furloughs and uncertainty. Visitors feel it too. Fewer services. Fewer updates. More responsibility on all of us. This guide shares simple ways to be a respectful guest at Rocky Mountain National Park right now. 

Why this matters 

Many roads and trails may remain open, but services are reduced. Restrooms and trash pickup can be limited. Locked facilities generally stay locked. If trash builds up or safety becomes an issue, areas may close. Your choices help keep the park safe, clean, and open. 

Pack it in, pack it out 

Bring a sturdy bag for every wrapper, tissue, and orange peel. If a bin is closed or overflowing, do not leave your bag beside it. Carry it out and dispose of it in town. Food waste is still waste. It attracts wildlife and harms them. When in doubt, take it with you. 

Simple trash plan 

• One gallon zip-top bag per person 

• A second bag for messy items 

• Hand sanitizer and a small roll of TP in a dry sack 

Plan your bathroom breaks 

Use restrooms before entering the park. Expect closures and reduced servicing. In the backcountry, know and follow Leave No Trace guidance. If you’re not prepared to manage human waste properly, plan a shorter outing and use facilities outside the park. 

Give wildlife extra space — especially elk in rut 

Fall is elk rut season. Bulls are focused and unpredictable. Stay at least 75 feet from elk — about two school buses. If an animal changes its behavior because of you, you’re too close. Never call to, approach, or crowd wildlife for a photo. Use a zoom lens or binoculars instead. 

Evening meadow closures 

Each fall, the park typically closes certain meadows at night to reduce stress on elk and keep people safe. Expect closures around Horseshoe Park, Upper Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park, Harbison Meadow, and Holzwarth Meadow. Obey all signs and barriers. 

Drive and park with care 

Wildlife gather near roads at dawn and dusk. Use pullouts. Do not stop in the lane to take photos. Park only in designated areas. If a gate is closed, it stays closed until reopened by the park. Keep roadways clear for emergency vehicles. 

Leave the drone at home 

Drones disturb wildlife and visitors and are not allowed in RMNP. If you brought one, please keep it packed. 

Check conditions — then stay flexible 

During a shutdown, official updates may be delayed. Cell service can be spotty. Build a simple Plan B: a different trail, a different time of day, or a viewpoint outside the park. Share your plan with your group before you lose service. 

Quick checklist before you go 

• Bathroom stop in town 

• Water, layers, headlamp, and snacks 

• Trash bags and hand sanitizer 

• Binoculars or a zoom lens 

• A calm mindset and extra patience 

Our promise 

We’ll keep welcoming you with care and pointing you to responsible options in and around the park. Your part — packing out, giving wildlife space, and honoring closures — protects the land, the animals, and the people who care for this place. 

If you’re planning a visit with a group or family and want help building a low‑impact itinerary, reach out. We’re happy to help you shape a respectful, beautiful day in the mountains.