Private Geology Tour in Rocky Mountain National Park
Full Potential Wilderness
5.0
915lindseyn
48 days ago
My husband and I attempted to watch YouTube videos about the geology of the RMNP but we're disappointed in the content. We found Ranger Rod after we arrived in Estes Park via a "things to do" list and were lucky he was available with a 2 day notice. Guiding us to places in the park gave perspective to the enormity of glaciers and power of time. He came fully equipped with a rock collection, referenced printed slides to illustrate processes and recent historical events, and his use of analogies helped me visualize complex concepts. We also took time to admire wildlife and he informed us on the biology and ecology too. Plus he told us of a great place along the highway to rock hound! Is there anything this guy doesn't know? Rod loves this park and it shows.
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.
Departure Point
- 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.
- 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.
- Human tour guide - English
- Printed guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Beaver Meadows Visitor Center1000 US Highway 36, ColoradoUpon 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.Duration: 30 minutesStop At: Rocky Mountain National ParkColoradoOn 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. Duration: 4 hoursStop At: Beaver Meadows Visitor Center1000 US Highway 36, ColoradoAfter your tour, you will return to the BMVC Duration: 5 minutesAdditional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair accessible
- Retired Geologist, Professional Guide
- Gear Rentals (when needed)
- Timed Entry Reservations (when required)
- Professional Photos (digital download)
- RMNP Day Pass ($30)
- Transportation
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.
Departure Point
- 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.
- 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.
- Human tour guide - English
- Printed guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Beaver Meadows Visitor Center1000 US Highway 36, ColoradoUpon 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.Duration: 30 minutesStop At: Rocky Mountain National ParkColoradoOn 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. Duration: 4 hoursStop At: Beaver Meadows Visitor Center1000 US Highway 36, ColoradoAfter your tour, you will return to the BMVC Duration: 5 minutesAdditional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair accessible
- Retired Geologist, Professional Guide
- Gear Rentals (when needed)
- Timed Entry Reservations (when required)
- Professional Photos (digital download)
- RMNP Day Pass ($30)
- Transportation
Need To Know Info
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
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5.0
based on Groupon 23 reviews
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915lindseyn
My husband and I attempted to watch YouTube videos about the geology of the RMNP but we're disappointed in the content. We found Ranger Rod after we arrived in Estes Park via a "things to do" list and were lucky he was available with a 2 day notice. Guiding us to places in the park gave perspective to the enormity of glaciers and power of time. He came fully equipped with a rock collection, referenced printed slides to illustrate processes and recent historical events, and his use of analogies helped me visualize complex concepts. We also took time to admire wildlife and he informed us on the biology and ecology too. Plus he told us of a great place along the highway to rock hound! Is there anything this guy doesn't know? Rod loves this park and it shows.
blueiz47
Had a Geology Tour with Ranger Rod on Sunday October 5th, 2025. He communicated ahead of time and when we met at the Visitor Center - Beaver Meadows it was an easy process. I have been to RMNP many times, but I very much enjoyed this trip learning more history about the place. Unfortunately Trail Ridge Road was closed at Rainbow Curve due to weather that had come in and was expecting to come in. Got to explore the Bear Lake Corridor - leaves were still in peak colors - EndoValley/Alluvial Fan was gorgeous and learning more about the history aspect of the floods that took that area out, what a "moraine" actually is. I highly recommend getting a tour with Rod (4 hours flew by before I even knew it).
Paradise559636
We sure enjoyed Rod! He taught us and the children so much! Truly made our experience at the Rocky Mountain National park memorable.
My 4 homeschooled kids (ages 9-14) were engaged and came away with a better understanding geology.
Blake_K
The trip was fantastic, and Ranger Rod was incredible. This is one of the best ways to visit and understand the park. 5 Stars!
T7671XBjuliet
My husband and I spent 5 delightful hrs with Ranger Rod recently touring Rocky Mt. Park. Rod talked about the fauna, flora, and the history of the geological formations throughout our tour. We saw a lot of wildlife and the views were fantastic. It was a great day.