When planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), many people think Estes Park. But here’s a tip: Longmont is the perfect, lower-elevation option you didn’t know you needed. Less than an hour’s drive from the park entrance, Longmont offers easy access to one of the most breathtaking national parks in the country without the hassle, high prices, or crowds. With a historic downtown, delicious food, affordable lodging, live music, and breweries around every corner, Longmont is the ideal basecamp for your Rocky Mountain adventures.

Morning: Launch from Longmont

The beauty of basing yourself in Longmont is that you can wake up refreshed, grab a locally roasted coffee, and be on the road to RMNP in under an hour. Before you hit the trail, swing by a spot like Mayan specialty coffee shop & bakery ​​Chí Kapé' or Javastop for a quick breakfast and a caffeine infusion. Or you can find your own favorite here. You’ll drive through golden plains and watch the Rocky Mountains rise in front of you. It’s a scenic, relaxing journey that sets the tone for the day.

Longmont isn’t just close to the park. It gives you space to breathe, literally and figuratively. No bumper-to-bumper traffic. No stress about parking. Just the calm before your mountain adventure.

Daytime: Discover Rocky Mountain National Park

With Longmont as your home base, you’re free to explore the vast beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re up for a heart-pounding hike or a scenic drive, there’s something there for everyone:

  • Hiking Lovers: Take on the Emerald Lake Trail, Alberta Falls, or challenge yourself with the Sky Pond hike.

  • Scenic Drivers: Cruise along Trail Ridge Road (generally open between Memorial Day and Labor Day), one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., and enjoy sweeping alpine views.

  • Wildlife Watchers: Spot elk, mule deer, and marmots in open valleys like Moraine Park.

  • Casual Explorers: Take a lakeside stroll around Bear Lake or find a quiet spot for a picnic under the pines.

People horseback riding inside Rocky Mountain National Park

Whether you’re going full-throttle or keeping things relaxed, RMNP is everything you dream Colorado to be, and it’s all within easy reach of your comfy bed back in Longmont. 

NOTE: The park has timed entry that requires reservations between 9am - 2pm May 23, 2025 -through mid-October. View all the details here.

Afternoon: Retreat to Your Basecamp

After a day filled with mountain air and unforgettable views, head back to Longmont for a welcome change of pace. You won’t be fighting traffic to get to a crowded resort town. Instead, you’ll roll back into a town that’s calm, quirky, and full of character.

Lodging in Longmont is easy on the wallet and high on comfort. Choose from one of many well-known hotels offering friendly service and plenty of space to stretch out. It’s Colorado without the crowds.

Evening: Dig Into Local Flavor

Once you’ve swapped your hiking boots for sandals, it’s time to eat, and Longmont does food right! Downtown is packed with locally owned restaurants serving everything from farm-fresh fare to international bites.

  • If you’re craving real-deal Mexican food, head to Josie’s Tacos, where bold flavors, handmade tortillas, and a friendly neighborhood vibe come together for a meal that feels like home with a kick.

  • Right in the heart of downtown, Longmont boasts three great pizza joints. Rosalee’s dishes out classic East Coast-style pies with hand-tossed crusts and fresh, local ingredients. Antonio’s Real NY Pizza, Longmont’s newest downtown pizzeria, has a New York vibe, and Urban Fields & Market dishes out pizzas using fresh local ingredients. Grab a slice or a whole pie, then stroll Main Street under the lights.

Whatever your taste, you’ll find something satisfying in Longmont. And the best part? You probably don’t need reservations and certainly no dress code. Just come as you are.

See all of Longmont's creative eateries

Two stacked pizzas

Night: Brews and Beats

Cap off your night at one of Longmont’s celebrated breweries, distilleries or cidery. With over a dozen craft spots from Left Hand Brewing to Dryland Distillery, you can sip your way through IPAs, stouts, or locally crafted spirits while relaxing on a sunny patio or catching a live band.

If you’re visiting in the summer, there are never-ending happenings. Check out the Downtown Summer Concert Series, where live music, art, and food trucks turn downtown into a block party. In fall, there’s Wibtoberfest and Day of the Dead Festival. 

Whether outdoor adventure is your jam or taking in the vibes of small town charm, Longmont gives you the space to unwind your way.

Couple enjoying cider at St. Vrain Cidery

Why Basecamp in Longmont?

Why NOT Basecamp?! It’s part of the experience. Here, you get:

  • Proximity: Only 33 miles from RMNP.

  • Affordability: Lodging and dining that won’t blow your budget.

  • Charm: Explore Longmont’s cute, historic downtown

  • Flavor: A cuisine and beer scene with character and local love.

  • Breathing Room: No tourist traps, no rushing; just real Colorado at your pace.

So skip the overbooked, overpriced options. Set up basecamp in Longmont and enjoy the best of both worlds: world-class adventure by day and small-town comfort by night.

Ready to plan your perfect RMNP trip?

Make Longmont your home base. 

Longmont — The Place with Space. Adventure at Your Own Pace.