Estes Park: Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour

Estes Park’s Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour offers a unique way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes. Guests can witness the dramatic scenery from the comfort of a luxurious van with a retractable glass top. The 3.5-hour tour takes visitors on a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, up to 12,183 feet, where they can explore the Alpine Visitor Center and witness breathtaking views. While the price tag may seem steep, the opportunity to see the park’s natural wonders in such a comfortable setting is hard to beat.

This experience made our article of 16 Top National Park Tours In Estes Park (With Reviews & Prices).

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Key Points

A 3.5-hour luxury glass-top bus tour of Rocky Mountain National Park, including access to Trail Ridge Road and the Alpine Visitor Center.
Opportunities for short hikes to see natural wonders like waterfalls, glaciers, and snowmelt during the tour.
Includes an English-speaking live guide, timed entry, park admission, and a variety of snacks and drinks.
Tour departs from Purple Mountain Tour Company in Estes Park, Colorado, with a recommended arrival 15 minutes prior to departure.
The tour has an overall 5-star rating based on 150 customer reviews, praising the knowledgeable guide and comfortable bus experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour provides an immersive experience, with a starting price of $147.00 per person and a duration of 3.5 hours.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to climb to 12,183 feet on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, and visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest in the National Park Services system at 11,796 feet.

Looking for more options in Estes Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Experience Highlights

Travelers can expect to travel in a retractable glass-top luxury van, which allows for unobstructed views of the stunning Rocky Mountain landscape.

The tour climbs to 12,183 feet on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America. Visitors will explore the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest in the National Park Services system at 11,796 feet.

The tour may also include a drive along the historic Old Fall River Road, where guests can take short hikes to see waterfalls, glaciers, and snowmelt.

These highlights offer a truly memorable Rocky Mountain experience.

Inclusions and Amenities

This glass-top van tour includes an English-speaking live guide to lead the experience.

The transportation is provided in a retractable glass-top luxury van, allowing for unobstructed views of the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.

Traveling through the Rocky Mountain scenery in a retractable glass-top luxury van for unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes.

The tour also includes:

Timed entry and park admission
A variety of hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks
One or two short excursions for nature viewing opportunities

These thoughtful inclusions and amenities ensure a comfortable and memorable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Meeting Point and Preparation

The meeting location for this glass-top van tour is Purple Mountain Tour Company, located at 165 Virginia Dr in Estes Park, Colorado.

Guests should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to check in. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a jacket, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the tour.

The tour takes place rain or shine, so it’s best to come prepared for the elements. Once the group is assembled, the knowledgeable guide will provide an overview of the day’s itinerary and ensure everyone is ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Rocky Mountain National Park.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the 150 reviews, the overall rating for this Rocky Mountain National Park glass-top bus tour is an impressive 5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable and entertaining guide, Zach, who brought the tour to life. The comfortable bus, complete with ample snacks and drinks, provided a luxurious experience.

Highlights noted by guests include:

Memorable sights, such as waterfalls, glaciers, and snow melt.
Unique wildlife encounters during the short nature hikes.
The thrill of climbing to 12,183 feet on the highest continuous paved road in North America.

There's plenty more to explore in Estes Park

Scenic Drive to Trail Ridge Road

The glass-top van climbs steadily along the winding road, offering passengers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

As they ascend higher, the landscape transforms, with towering peaks and vast alpine meadows coming into view. The driver points out notable landmarks, like the iconic Longs Peak, as the van winds its way up Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America.

Passengers peer through the glass roof, snapping photos and taking in the majestic scenery. The drive is both exciting and serene, a perfect introduction to the natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Exploring the Alpine Visitor Center

After the scenic drive up Trail Ridge Road, the tour next takes passengers to the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest in the National Park Services system at 11,796 feet.

Travelers can:

Explore the exhibits highlighting the park’s geology, wildlife, and alpine environment.
Step outside to take in the stunning vistas of the Rocky Mountains.
Warm up with a hot drink and snack in the center’s cafe.

The guide provides insights about the center’s history and significance, ensuring visitors make the most of this high-altitude experience before continuing their journey through the park.

Discovering Old Fall River Road

From the Alpine Visitor Center, the tour continues its journey through the park, venturing onto the historic Old Fall River Road. This scenic byway winds its way up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The road was constructed in 1920 and predates the modern Trail Ridge Road, providing a unique glimpse into the park’s past. As the van climbs, passengers can spot cascading waterfalls, lush alpine meadows, and towering peaks. The following table outlines some key features of this enchanting portion of the tour:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Road Type | Gravel, one-way |

| Length | 9 miles |

| Elevation | 7,620 – 11,796 feet |

| Highlights | Waterfalls, meadows, historic sites |

| Access | Seasonal (typically July – October) |

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed and encouraged during the tour. Travellers will have ample opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park from the comfort of the glass-top van.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. The tour includes hot and cold drinks and snacks, but you’re welcome to pack additional personal items to enjoy during the journey.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age or height restrictions for the Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour. Children of all ages are welcome, and the tour accommodates passengers of all sizes.

How Often Does the Tour Depart Throughout the Day?

The tours depart multiple times throughout the day, with availability varying by season. Visitors should check the tour company’s website or contact them directly to inquire about the current daily schedule and availability for their desired travel dates.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary in Advance?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized in advance. It’s a set tour that follows a predetermined route and schedule. Passengers can’t modify the itinerary, but they can choose from additional small excursions offered during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Glass-Top Bus Tour in Estes Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. With its luxurious van, guided visits, and ample amenities, this 3.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts seeking stunning vistas, fascinating hikes, and a deeper appreciation for the park’s alpine wonders.