The Rocky Mountain National Park in the state of Colorado is a sublime sweep of ravishing granite cliffs, pine forests and retreating icefields fringed by starbursts of wildflowers in spring. Spanning 265,761 acres (107,550 hectares), the park is geologically diverse, with towering mountains descending into dense forests, punctuated by glimmering lakes. The region has been inhabited for over 11,000 years, with the Ute and the Arapaho Tribes being the first to settle around the area. They were followed by Spanish explorers, French fur trappers, and gold miners, until 1803 when the United States wrested control of the land from the French through the Louisiana Purchase. It wasn't until the 20th Century, however, when a national conservation movement was proposed by Theodore Roosevelt, that the land was appreciated for its rich history and natural bounty. Today, the park features a number of hiking, biking and winter sport trails, picnic spots, and campsites.