Parts of Rocky Mountain National Park to Close for Elk Rut

It's that time of year again when the elk take over nearly every part of the lower meadows for mating season in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park. The Elk Rut is quite a sight to see and the amount of elk in any given area is too many to count.

Starting on September 1, officials at Rocky Mountain National Park will close certain areas of the national park to avoid the elk being disturbed or harassed by humans. The closures of certain areas also enhance opportunities for onlookers to view the elk during this season.

Closures in Rocky Mountain National Park for the Elk Rut

The areas that will be affected by the closures in Rocky Mountain National Park include:

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• Horseshoe Park
• Moraine Park
• Upper Beaver Meadows
• Harbison Meavow
• Holzwarth Meadow

These areas will be closed daily from 5 p.m. to 10 a.m. starting September 1 through October 31. Fishing in these sections of Fall River, Big Thompson River, or the Colorado River will also be closed from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m.

It is always a good thing to do to check and see what conditions are like and if there are any closures in Rocky Mountain National Park before you enter the park. For more information on closures and conditions, visit nps.gov.

Elk Safety During the Rut in Colorado

We see videos every year posted on social media of dumb tourists trying to get the perfect selfie with an elk. Don't do this. Stay far away from the wildlife. These seemingly docile creatures can be very aggressive during mating season. Especially bull elks who believe you are encroaching on their territory. It is always a safe bet to practice viewing wildlife from a distance.