Are Rangers the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park? Absolutely 100% YES!

When most people think of RMNP, they picture those pristine alpine lakes, vibrate wildflower meadows, and those "purple mountains majesty" that make your jaw drop. But behind the beauty is a (now smaller) team of people who work tirelessly to protect it all.

Our wonderful park rangers.

Rocky’s rangers are true guardians of the back country. They work year round to protect fragile alpine ecosystems, manage wildfire risk, and ensure that wildlife like bats, beavers, and even wolves (wont be long!) can thrive in their natural environment. Their work is so vital to keeping the park’s landscapes healthy.

They’re also the first line of defense when things go wrong. Whether it’s rescuing stranded hikers near the Keyhole on Longs Peak, responding to a medical emergency at Bear Lake, or educating visitors about weather risks above treeline, rangers are the ones who keep us safe in unpredictable mountain conditions. But it’s not just about safety...it’s also about connection with the 4 million visitors the park receives.. Rocky’s rangers are storytellers and educators, really awesome ones too. Through campfire talks in the summer, wildlife programs at the visitor center, and stargazing nights up on Trail Ridge Road, they help visitors understand the park’s geology, ecology, and cultural history. There sure is an abundance of it too. They turn a visit to the park into an unforgettable one. The most important thing about our Rangers is that they lead by example. Whether they’re picking up trash on the trail or teaching Leave No Trace ethics to new visitors, rangers promote a sense of responsibility and stewardship in everyone who steps foot into the park.

The next time you visit the park and you notice that ranger patrolling the trail, stop and ask them questions! They want to educate you, they want to tell their stories. Also thank them for all they do. Rocky wouldn't be the great Rocky Mountain National Park without them.