15 Things to Know about Rocky Mountains

Last Updated: February 13, 2025

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Key Takeaways:

Facts	Key Information
Location	The Rocky Mountains stretch 4,800 km from New Mexico to Alaska, spanning parts of the US and Canada.
Canadian Rockies	Canadian Rockies are more jagged, heavily glaciated, and home to UNESCO-listed national parks.
Height	Mount Robson (3,954m) is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, known for its climbing challenges.
Ecology	Montane Cordillera ecozone spans 262,150 km² with 98% natural cover, providing diverse habitats.
Wildlife	Home to 289 bird species, 61 tree species, 89 mammal species, and 14 amphibian species.
Indigenous Peoples	Indigenous groups such as Ktunaxa, Blackfoot, and Cree have lived in the region for 13,000 years.
Glaciers and Climate Change	Athabasca Glacier has shrunk by over 1.5 km in 125 years due to climate change.

To all our meaningful travelers and spiritual seekers, the information we provided about mountains has been really helpful. Love for our story about the Appalachian mountains has proved that. To continue this journey, here we are providing you with helpful information with 15 things to know about the Rocky Mountains.
Climbing through the heart of North America, the Rocky Mountains stand as an awe-inspiring testament to nature’s power and beauty. With their rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and glacier-fed rivers, the Rockies are not just a place, they are an experience. Whether you are a seasoned explorer or a curious traveler, here are 15 things to know about the Rocky Mountains before you set foot in this breathtaking region.

1. Where are the Rocky Mountains?

The Rocky Mountains extend over 4,800 km (3,000 miles) from New Mexico to Alaska, covering parts of the United States and Canada. The Canadian segment stretches across British Columbia and Alberta, forming a dramatic boundary between the prairies and the Pacific coast.

Here is the map of Rocky mountains:

2. The Canadian Rockies Are Unique

Unlike the American Rockies, the Canadian Rockies are more jagged, heavily glaciated, and contain a vast number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks.

3. The Highest Peak in the Canadian Rockies

Towering at 3,954 meters (12,972 feet), Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. It is a legendary climbing challenge and a sight to behold for visitors traveling along the Yellowhead Highway.

4. The Rockies Are an Ecological Marvel

The Montane Cordillera ecozone covers a total area of 262,150 km², with a stunning 98% natural cover. The region’s pristine forests, alpine meadows, and wetlands provide a haven for diverse wildlife and plant species.

5. Wildlife Is Abundant Here

The Rockies are home to 289 species of birds, 61 species of trees, 89 species of mammals, and 14 species of amphibians. Some of the most iconic residents include grizzly bears, cougars, wolverines, elk, and bighorn sheep.

6. A Sacred Land for Indigenous Peoples

For over 13,000 years, Indigenous peoples have called these lands home. The Ktunaxa, Blackfoot, Cree, Métis, Nakoda, and Secwépemc Nations have deep cultural connections to the Rockies, viewing them as sacred and integral to their traditions.

7. The Rockies Are a Natural Barrier

The Canadian Rockies separate the Pacific watershed from the Atlantic and Arctic watersheds, influencing the flow of major rivers such as the Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Peace Rivers.

8. A Haven for Endangered Species

Several species at risk, including the grizzly bear, whitebark pine, and westslope cutthroat trout, depend on the protected areas of the Rockies for survival.

9. The Icefields Parkway Is a Road Trip Must

The Icefields Parkway, a 230-km stretch between Lake Louise and Jasper, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. Along the route, travelers can see glaciers, waterfalls, and emerald lakes, with plenty of stops for breathtaking views.

10. Glaciers Are Melting Rapidly

The glaciers of the Rockies, including the Athabasca Glacier, have been retreating at alarming rates due to climate change. In the past 125 years, the Athabasca Glacier alone has shrunk by more than 1.5 km.

11. The Rockies Have a Volatile Climate

Even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snowfall is not uncommon. If you're visiting, layering up is essential, as weather conditions can change unpredictably.

12. Banff: The Jewel of the Rockies

Founded in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park and a premier tourist destination. Banff's iconic sights include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Banff Hot Springs.

13. Jasper National Park Is Canada’s Largest Rocky Mountain Park

Jasper National Park, covering 11,000 km², is not only the largest park in the Canadian Rockies but also a Dark Sky Preserve, making it a perfect spot for stargazing.

14. The Rockies Are an Economic Powerhouse

Tourism, logging, cattle ranching, and mining contribute to the region’s economy. However, tourism is now the leading industry, attracting over 9 million visitors annually to the national parks.

15. The Rockies Continue to Evolve

Formed around 200 million years ago, the Rockies are still geologically active. Unlike the much older Appalachian Mountains, the Rockies remain rugged and youthful in geological terms.

Final Thoughts

The Rocky Mountains are more than just a scenic backdrop—they are a living, breathing force of nature. Whether you’re drawn to their history, wildlife, or outdoor adventures, the Rockies offer something for everyone. However, as climate change and human activities continue to impact this fragile ecosystem, conservation efforts are crucial to preserving its beauty for future generations.