Frequently Asked Questions

Ten reasons to tour with us:

1. We share our passion with you
2. We know the West side of Rocky Mountain National Park inside and out
3. We believe in connecting you with the people and cultures of the area
4. Our guests come back to us again and send us their families and friends because of their exceptional experiences with us
5. Dave is a well-known local expert and historian
6. We offer tours no one else can
7. We guarantee departures and do not cancel tours
8. We are insured and stand behind our tours
9. Dave is a Certified Tour Guide by the International Guide Academy with CPR and first aid training
10. We operate under all required permits

For more information about Dave and Lively Tours and Talks please visit About 

Call 970-531-1211

Dave@LivelyToursandTalks.com or visit our Contact Page

Lively Tours and Talks LLC was established in 2016. We are a family business owned by Dave Lively. Dave will be your CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and has enjoyed presenting the Rocky Mountain National Park and Grand Lake area to a wide variety of audiences since 2006. For more information please visit the About Page.

Your tour includes transportation, Rocky Mountain National Park entry fees, bottled water and light snacks, maps, binoculars to share, engaging stories, glorious scenery, and memorable experiences.

There are no additional taxes or fees. Your entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park is included in the tour price.

Our minimum guest is you. Our tours are designed for 4 or fewer guests. We provide tours into Rocky Mountain National Park in a 4-door pickup truck. The group will always be small with a maximum of 4 guests. Our small group size and personalized service allow you to enjoy the beauty, culture, flavor, and excitement of a new land not far from the well-trodden tourist track, but from the perspective of an insider.

Yes, Lively Tours and Talks operates under a Rocky Mountain National Park Commercial Use Authorization permit and its insurance requirements. The National Park Service is undergoing a multi-year revision of its fees and permits. You can rest assured that Lively Tours and Talks knows and will always be in compliance with current requirements.

You are welcome to reserve your tour 6 months in advance. You may reserve you tour up to 4:00 PM on the day prior to the day of departure, if there are openings available.

We welcome all families aboard, with a limitation of 4 guests age 14 and over. We are unable to accept reservations for children under the age of 14 for our tours. Guests between ages 14 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Families with children under 14 and larger groups can enjoy the Lively Tours and Talks experience by contacting Dave directly through our Contact Page and booking a Family Experience. These experiences feature family-friendly pricing and activities.

Definitely. We have several planned stops, and we are prepared to stop on request or if we see wildlife.

Our tours are in a 4-door pickup truck; unfortunately we don’t have room for your luggage to be safely transported.

Plans change, and we understand that. If life throws you a curveball, we won’t throw back a penalty. Please refer to our Cancellation Policy Page for details.

Itineraries may consist of walking on uneven terrain or walking through the forest without an improved trail at times. Bring along sunglasses, rain jacket and/or coat, camera, memory cards, batteries, sunscreen, hat, and closed-toe sturdy walking shoes or boots. We suggest you bring a daypack and selfie stick. There is device charging available in the vehicle if you bring the necessary cord.

Walking sticks are not mandatory, but they do offer a level of stability on uneven surfaces such as the trails we will be walking. We recommend you dress in layers to be prepared for the sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions common at high altitude.

You are welcome to bring beverages and snacks, but please leave the alcohol, tobacco and marijuana behind.

The tour is “on” rain or shine. Weather in Rocky Mountain National Park varies from moment to moment sometimes. Please be prepared for bright sunshine, partly cloudy days, light rain that may last only a few minutes to rain that may pour for hours on end. Snow is possible any day of the year. Please see the listing of What to Bring on your tour.

Our tours are active but not strenuous for those in average condition. Our tours are 4 hours of mixed driving, talking and walking. The walks vary from ¼ to 1 mile. We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences our destination offers. Itineraries may consist of walking on uneven terrain or walking through the forest without an improved trail at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict vehicle travel, especially in historic areas.

Our small group size of 4 or fewer allows us to tailor our tours to your abilities and interests. Itineraries may consist of walking on uneven terrain or walking through the forest without an improved trail at times and may not be suitable for those with some disabilities.

It’s best to leave valuables at home, please understand that the items you bring are 100% your responsibility. You will want to have with you the What to Bring list of items, and the vehicle will be locked while parked. Please be aware there is very limited cell service within Rocky Mountain National Park. We suggest you put your phone in aviation mode to save your battery and allow you to take pictures.

Altitude sickness can be a problem, especially for people coming to the mountains from sea level. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated by drinking extra amounts of water, and stay away from alcohol and caffeine. Altitude sickness can be serious, you may experience an upset stomach, headache, dizziness or shortness of breath – please inform your guide so he is aware of your symptoms and can begin treatment as soon as possible. There will be water, and oxygen available in the vehicle if needed.

At Lively Tours and Talks your safety is paramount. Dave is trained not only to keep you safe in the wilderness, but also to be ready for the unexpected – whether it be high water, a lightning storm or those off-itinerary events you weren’t expecting. When considering your tour options, it is important to inquire about safety records and current trainings. Ours, we are proud to say, are impeccable and always up-to-date.

We will meet you at the Grand Lake Center at 301 Marina Dr. at the corner of Marina Dr. and Center Dr. There is a map available here, please call Dave 970-531-1211 if you have any questions. The morning tour leaves at 8:30 AM and the afternoon tour leaves at 1:30 PM. Please arrive 10 minutes before departure.

Yes, there is ample free parking.

Tips are not included because we believe that recognizing excellent service is a personal matter. At the end of your trip, although not compulsory, if you felt your CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is encouraged – and welcomed. The amount is entirely a personal preference, many people follow restaurant guidelines of 15-25%.

Contact Dave directly at 970-531-1211 or dave@livelytoursandtalks.com to find the program that appeals to your family.