Moraine Park Museum and Amphitheater

Moraine Park Museum and Amphitheater is a historic complex in Rocky Mountain National Park at about 8100 feet elevation, with seating built from stone and timber. From here, visitors look out onto Moraine Park and the Big Thompson River.

The National Park Service acquired the property in 1931 and converted the former Assembly Hall of Moraine Lodge into a museum between 1936 and 1937. This transformation was part of early efforts to repurpose park buildings for public education.

The structures show how the National Park Service designed buildings using local stone and wood to blend with the mountain setting. Visitors can see how the design respects the natural landscape rather than imposing on it.

The site is easily walkable and features interactive exhibits about geology, weather patterns, and ecosystems year-round. Visitors should note that the elevation and mountain terrain require appropriate footwear and physical preparation.

The amphitheater preserves original stone gutters and drainage systems installed during its creation that still function today. The seating areas were deliberately positioned among existing trees to protect the natural setting rather than alter it.

Location: Larimer County

Architects: National Park Service

Architectural style: National Park Service rustic

GPS coordinates: 40.35889,-105.58439

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00