Want a Rocky Mountain adventure with small-town charm? Head to Estes Park! This scenic Colorado town is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering epic hiking, wildlife encounters, and cozy mountain lodges. Whether you're into trail trekking, boutique shopping, or stargazing by the fire, Estes Park has you covered year-round.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Estes Park is from late spring to early fall (May through October). Summer is perfect for hiking and lake days, while autumn brings crisp weather and stunning foliage. Winter also attracts visitors for snowshoeing and peaceful cabin retreats.
My tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Estes Park is located on US-36, about 1.5 hours northwest of Denver and 1 hour from Boulder. Scenic drives are part of the fun!
- By Bus: Estes Transit runs seasonal shuttles in town. Bustang Outrider connects from Denver to Estes Park during peak seasons.
- By Train: There is no direct train service to Estes Park, but Denver’s Union Station is the closest major hub for Amtrak.
Where I like to stay
- The Stanley Hotel – Famous historic hotel with mountain views, upscale rooms, and ghost tour lore.
- Murphy’s River Lodge – Riverside stay just steps from downtown, offering affordable comfort and outdoor hot tubs.
- Della Terra Mountain Chateau – Elegant adults-only retreat near the national park entrance, ideal for romantic getaways.
Recommended Tours in Estes Park, Colorado:
- Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour – Travel up above the trees in a glass-top convertible van. Price: From $147 per person.
- Rocky Mountain National Park Safari Tour – Start your adventure in the historic downtown Estes Park at 7500 feet above sea level. Price: From $130 per person.
- Rocky Mountain National Park Sunrise Hiking Tour – Enjoy scenic mountain views and amazing wildlife on this sunrise hiking tour from Estes Park to an alpine lake in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Cherish the moment with the included digital photos. Price: From $169 per person.
- Bear Lake Corridor Photo Experience Tour – Enjoy this specialty tour, where professional guides will take you to exclusive photo spots. Price: From $130 per person.
Top Attractions
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Downtown Estes Park – Explore locally owned shops, art galleries, candy stores, and riverfront cafés.
- Estes Park Museum – Learn about the town’s rich history and natural surroundings through interactive exhibits.
Where to Eat
- Bird & Jim – Farm-to-table eatery with Colorado-inspired fare, cocktails, and mountain views.
- The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern – Cozy log cabin setting offering hearty comfort food and live music.
- Claire’s Restaurant and Bar – Local favorite for brunch, bison burgers, and patio dining with elk sightings.
If you are interested in local events:
- Estes Park Elk Fest (late September–early October) – Celebrate elk rut season with live music, vendors, and educational exhibits.
- Scandinavian Midsummer Festival (June) – Traditional dancing, crafts, and Nordic food in Bond Park.
- Frozen Dead Guy Days (March) – A quirky, relocated festival now in Estes Park, full of coffin races, music, and oddball fun.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Estes Park, Colorado:
- Rocky Mountain National Park (0–10 min) – Explore alpine lakes, wildlife habitats, and panoramic trails just outside town.
- Allenspark (20–25 min) – Visit this peaceful mountain village with art studios and scenic hiking access.
- Glen Haven (15–20 min) – Quaint stop known for its general store and famous cinnamon rolls.
- Lily Lake (10–15 min) – Easy nature walk with stunning views and family-friendly trails near the Twin Sisters trailhead.
- Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (starts 20–30 min away) – A gorgeous drive through mountain vistas and historic mining towns.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Estes Park located?
- Estes Park, a Colorado town with fewer than 7,000 residents, sits along the Big Thompson River.
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What makes Estes Park a popular destination?
- As the headquarters for Rocky Mountain National Park, a 265,000-acre area with 359 miles of hiking trails, 150 lakes, and nearly 100 tall mountain peaks, Estes Park attracts several million visitors each year.
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What amenities and attractions does Estes Park offer?
- The trendy town is well-known for its abundance of restaurants, spas, golf courses, shops, and entertainment venues.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Fewer crowds and emerging wildlife.
The Stanley Hotel – A historic and iconic stay with mountain views.
Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park – See waterfalls and spring wildflowers.
Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures and peak tourist season.
YMCA of the Rockies – A family-friendly retreat with outdoor activities.
Drive Trail Ridge Road – Experience breathtaking views at high elevations.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful foliage and elk rutting season.
Murphy’s River Lodge – A cozy lodge near downtown and the river.
Attend the Elk Fest – Celebrate the annual elk mating season with live music and events.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes and a quiet mountain escape.
Rams Horn Village Resort – A luxurious and cozy stay with cabin-style accommodations.
Snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park – Enjoy peaceful winter trails and wildlife sightings.
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