Unfold Charm and Adventure in Estes Park, Colorado
Located snug in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park, Colorado, is a lovely place to be within the lap of nature, which is guaranteed, through outdoor adventure, to offer breathtaking views of the countryside and an equally defining vibrant arts and cultural scene. Nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, and history enthusiasts will all have something to like about this little picturesque town. From hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park to strolling up Elkhorn Avenue and window shopping in the numerous quaint shops, here are some of the fun things to do in Estes Park, Colorado. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Hike Rocky Mountain National Park
Probably the most significant attention contaminant of Estes Park is its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, a huge wilderness area with boundless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. With over 355 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy strolls across meadows to challenging alpine treks, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Popular Hikes in the Park
Bear Lake Loop: This is an easier trail with a family-friendly, gentle route around Bear Lake that brings you into nice vistas of surrounding mountains and forests. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Emerald Lake Trail: It’s a more challenging moderate way to take in views along the way of Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and finally, beautiful Emerald Lake against towering peaks.
Trail Ridge Road: This isn’t a hike but a scenic drive that takes you up over 12,000 feet. Along the way, there are numerous pull-offs and short trails where you can stretch your legs and take in the views.
Longs Peak Trail: For those who seek excitement, this demanding trail takes one to the summit of Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s famous 14ers. Views from the top hardly go out of memory, but it requires a very hard trek and extremely early start. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Wildlife Viewing
Well, Estes Park is home to a good number of wildlife species: elk, bighorn sheep, deer, and black bears. Some of the best viewing places for these animals are in Rocky Mountain National Park. Elk can usually be seen in meadows, and bighorn sheep in rocky cliffs. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Best Spots for Wildlife Viewing
Moraine Park: It is a broad meadow in which the elk tend to gather in considerable numbers, especially during the fall rutting season. It makes for great photography and just an ideal space to rejoice at those magnificent animals. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Horseshoe Park: A well-known area for bighorn sheep, from here, one can get some really nice views of these agile climbers in their natural habitat. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Bear Lake Road: Early morning or late evening drives on this road are sure to give you views of a great variety of wildlife, including mule deer and black bears. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Alternatively, get a closer look by booking a guided wildlife tour or by visiting the Estes Park Wildlife Center to learn about the local fauna and get up close and personal with some rescued animals.
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Scenic Drives
If hiking isn’t really your thing, there are ample scenic drives in and around Estes Park that give great views of surrounding mountains and valleys. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Scenic Drives Not to Miss
Trail Ridge Road: The most famous drive in the area, it traverses the park from east to west and reaches elevations over 12,000 feet. This road has numerous pullouts and viewpoints from which to capture the majestic scenery. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: The road links the two towns of Estes Park and Nederland and contributes to a beautiful drive along the Front Range mountains. Other mountain towns will also be crossed through, with shorter hikes and picnic opportunities abounding.
Old Fall River Road: A gravel, one-way route that twists and turns up to the Alpine Visitor Center and is far less crowded than Trail Ridge Road with unparalleled access to the park’s beauty.
Shopping and Dining
Estes Park is home to a lively downtown area full of unique shops, galleries, and eateries where you can peruse for distinctive souvenirs, art, and handmade items. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Best Places for Shopping
Elkhorn Avenue: This is the main business avenue in town, named for all the shopping boutiques, jewelry stores, and outdoor gear shops that line it. Whether you’re looking for a gift or just something for yourself, you’ll probably find it here.
Estes Park Mountain Shop: A must-visit for any outdoors type, with such items as hiking boots to camping gear.
The Taffy Shop: For something sweet, stop by this popular store where taffy has been hand-pulled since 1935. That alone might be a show worth seeing!
Dining in Estes Park
Once you have finished shopping, indulge in some fine local cuisine at one of Estes Park’s many restaurants, which range from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.
The Dunraven: Very popular for its fine Italian food and warm ambiance, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or family meal.
Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew: If you are in the mood for a decent barbecued feed, then look no further. Their smoked meats and homemade sides are sure to satisfy your appetite.
Claire’s on the Park: This restaurant offers loads of American classics with a twist in its menu and enjoys the fabulous view of the beautiful Bond Park with a friendly, homey atmosphere.
The Best Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Outdoor Activities
Besides hiking and watching wildlife, there is a long list of other outdoor activities that Estes Park offers its visitors.
Fishing
You can去 fishing in the Big Thompson River, noted for its fine trout fishing. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a raw beginner, local fishing shops will be able to equip you with gear and permits.
Horseback Riding
Take a guided horseback ride into the mountains to see scenes you can’t get any other way. It’s a rare view of some of the prettiest landscapes anywhere and a truly western experience.
Rock Climbing
The towering granite cliffs around Estes Park offer some great opportunities for some absolutely fantastic rock climbing. From beginning to advanced routes, it’s all here. Consider booking a guided climb to really get the most out of your experience. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Whitewater Rafting
For a real adventure, try running some whitewater on the nearby Cache La Poudre River. The course hosts rapids for all levels, ranging from easy floats to raging, adrenaline-pumping white water runs.
Zip-Lining
For some adrenaline-charged fun, head to the local zip-lining courses. Feel the air roaring in your tear-streamed face and see great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mountain Biking
The trails in and around Estes Park offer great mountain biking, with everything from easy rides across the meadows to challenging climbs and descents in the mountains. Take a rental from one of the local shops and hit the trails for an unforgettable experience. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Arts and Culture
The town of Estes Park comes alive with extremely vibrant arts and culture, featuring numerous galleries, museums, and cultural activities exhibiting the ingenuity and creativity of the locals.
Galleries and Museums
The Art Center of Estes Park: This art facility hosts paintings, sculptures, and crafts done by local and regional artists. This is a good place to buy a piece of unique art as a souvenir.
Estes Park Museum: This museum expresses the history of the town with exhibitions on early settlers, Native American tribes, and mountain exploration. History enthusiasts should definitely visit this place.
Cultural Activities
You will also be able to see several concerts, art fairs, and theater performances during your visit that take place all through the year and evidence the mountain town’s cultural richness.
SnowyGrass Music Festival – This bluegrass music event takes place in July with top musicians for a weekend of great music in a beautiful setup. Estes Park Fine Arts Guild Shows – These shows primarily feature works by local artists and are a wonderful way to view (and purchase) some of the best art in the area. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Performance Park Summer Concert Series: Kick off summer with completely free, outdoor concerts at Performance Park. It’s an opportunity to relax and enjoy the local music scene while taking a break.
Fun for Families
Estes Park is great for families, offering a mix of attractions and activities to please kids of all ages.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Another great scenic ride is via the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, taking you to the top of Prospect Mountain for expansive views over the town and surrounding mountains. The top features picnic areas, hiking trails, and even a small gift shop. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Estes Park Discovery Center
This interactive center features hands-on exhibits and displays that explain the natural history of the area. Both children and adults will enjoy themselves. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Fun City Amusement Park
Fun City has miniature golf, go-karts, and bumper boats that guarantee a fun time out with the family. This is a great location to practice spending some hours and letting the kids get out their energy.
Festivals and Events
From winter to winter, Estes Park entertains a number of festivals and other celebrations in recognition of the community, wildlife, natural beauty, and other important facets of this region of Colorado.
Largest Festivals
Rooftop Rodeo: This event occurs in July, featuring cowboys and cowgirls from across the nation who will compete in bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. It’s truly an experience in the Wild West and fun for every age.
• Fall Festival: This October festival brings to life the changing color of the aspens with live music, food vendors, and arts and craft booths. It really is a wonderful way to enjoy the fall season in the Rockies.
• Elk Fest: Again in October, the Elk Fest takes place during the natural rutting season of the elk. Activities range from engaging educational exhibits and live music to Native American storytelling and dancing.
Scandinavian Midsummer Festival: This occurs on the Junefest weekend and involves traditional Scandinavian music, dance, food, and crafts. Colorful and full of fun activities, this is a joyous spectacle for both kids and adults alike. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Estes Park Winter Festival: Running in January, the festival includes glamorous ice sculptures alongside live music and winter sports demonstrations. With all this, the experience of winter in Estes Park is surely unique. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Relax and Rejuvenate
Want to relax and rejuvenate? From spas to wellness centers, Estes Park is full of great ways to decompress and recharge. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Spas and Wellness Centers
Riverspointe Spa: Offering massages, facials, and body wraps, this spa offers everything one needs to repair after a day of outdoor activities.
Elements of Touch Wellness Spa: Business space for massage therapy, reflexology, and treatment in aromatherapy to cover the manifold wellness services. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and indulgence.
Yoga and Meditation
Take a class of Yoga in one of the numerous studios around town which offer classes with mountain views. It is serenity at its best to either start or end your day with. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Hot Springs
Though there are no hot springs within Estes Park, a short ride away lie cities like Hot Sulphur Springs and Glenwood Springs that have naturally occurring hot springs where one can soak back into the healing waters and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains at that time. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Historic Tours
History lurks around every corner of Estes Park, rich with a past hewn out by early Native American tribes, pioneer settlers, and mountain explorers. The heritage of the town may be discovered through historic tours to various places.
Historic Landmarks
The Stanley Hotel: This was the magnificent structure that inspired the novel “The Shining” by Stephen King. Guided tours are available to rediscover the history and appreciate its elegant architecture combined with serene, well-maintained grounds.
Baldpate Inn: A historic lodge filled with much memorabilia and artifacts from its colorful past. This inn is also known for its key collection – thousands of keys from around the world.
Historic Downtown Walking Tour: Take part in the guided tour of Estes Park’s historic downtown area, detailing early days of the town, its architecture, and remarkable events that forged its path.
Whether you come in winter, spring, summer, or fall, Estes Park activities cater to seasonal interests and take advantage of the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.
Summer Activities
In the summer months, activities include camping, boating, and picnicking right inside Rocky Mountain National Park. The weather is warm, with long days, making it ideal for all types of outdoor adventure.
Camp: Whether you need a rustic tent site or RV hookups, there are a myriad of campgrounds both in and around Estes Park. Stay overnight under the stars and wake up to the chirping of birds.
Boating: Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle on one of many lakes in the area. This is the peaceful way through which you can enjoy the stunning scenery. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Picnicking—Pack a lunch and take it to one of the many picnic areas within Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a nice way to break up your day and enjoy the views.
Fall Activities
Along the fall season, aspen trees brighten to brilliant shades of gold and red, thus creating very nice hikes and beautiful driving scenes. It is also the time for the elk rut, a pretty cool natural event where you can hear the weird bugle of bull elks when they try to vie for mates. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Leaf Peeping: Drive along Trail Ridge Road or the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway for fall-color appreciation—a photographer’s delight!
Elk Viewing: Elk are extremely visible at this time of year, as they are in their rut, providing excellent wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Winter Activities
There’ll be snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding awaiting you in the snow-covered mountains. During snowy times, Estes Park becomes a winter wonderland and perfect holiday destination.
Snowshoeing: You can navigate the winter trails in Rocky Mountain National Park with a rented pair of snowshoes. This is a great, hard actual way to enjoy the snow. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Cross-Country Skiing: Slide on cross-country skis through the snowy meadows and forests. There are plenty of trails of all skill levels. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Sledding: Have fun with family-friendly sledding on just about any winter day at Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Spring Activities
Spring is special, and Estes Park does a fine job of it—right after the snows start melting away and the wildflowers start blooming. The rivers and waterfalls swell with peak flows, and the wildlife comes alive as each day brings warmth and new life. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Wildflower Hikes: Spring brings wildflower displays along these trails, like the Wild Basin Trail. It’s a colorful and fragrant time to ramble through the park.
Bird Watching: Spring is an excellent time for bird watching as migratory species come back into the area. Take some binoculars and observe how many different species you can identify.
Waterfall Viewing: Waterfalls like Alberta Falls are at their most remarkable due to snowmelt. It’s a good hike to view such natural wonders.
Unusual Things to Do in Estes Park
While there is a long list of known activities in Estes Park, here are a few unusual and off-the-pinch experiences one could check out. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Ghost Tours at the Stanley Hotel: Explore the eerie past of the Stanley Hotel through a guided ghost tour. It’s a spooky but light-hearted way to spend your evening.
Estes Park Rock Shop: A most interesting shop, with a wide variety of rocks, minerals, and fossils, from which to choose a truly different kind of souvenir. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park: Lovely Riverwalk runs along the Big Thompson River through downtown; it is a serene walk in which to soak up the atmosphere of this mountain town.
Visit the Estes Park Memorial Observatory: This tiny, volunteer-run observatory offers public viewings and educational programs. It’s a nice place to learn about the night sky and see celestial objects up close, as well. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Free Things to Do in Estes Park
Motorhome travelers on a tight budget? Estes Park offers its fair share of free activities to enjoy.
Rocky Mountain National Park: The park charges an admission fee; however, it features free entrance days frequently throughout the calendar year. After you’re in, you can hike, have a picnic, and take in the views with no extra cost. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Catch a Free Concert :As the sun warms the region, the Performance Park Summer Concert Series sends notes aloft in free, live outdoor concerts.
Visit Bond Park: This beautiful park in the heart of downtown is home to many free events and festivals. It is great for either just relaxing or watching people. Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Take a Scenic Drive: Drives around Estes Park are absolutely free and have some of the most stunning views of the surrounding environment. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day.
Window Shopping on Elkhorn Avenue: It doesn’t make a difference if you don’t wish to buy anything. The special shops along this avenue are just interesting to watch, while passing your afternoon in a walk.
Things to Do in Estes Park This Weekend
If your itinerary includes making the visit to Estes Park on a weekend, then these are some of the activities that will bind your visit together.
Embark on a Hike to Emerald Lake: Start your weekend with one of the most stunning trails. The trail has some vigorous uphill climbs and offers breathtaking views of lakes and surrounding mountains.
Drive Trail Ridge Road: Take a few hours to drive this scenic road, stopping at the viewpoints to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Estes Park Museum: Want to know more about the area? This museum helps with interesting information.
Dinner at The Dunraven: End your day right with a delicious Italian dinner at this local favorite.
Attend a Local Event: Check the events calendar for the latest happenings in town. From concerts and festivals to farmers markets, there is always excitement happening in Estes Park.
FAQ
What are some unique things to do in Estes Park?
Ghost tours of the Stanley Hotel, the Estes Park Rock Shop, walking beside the Riverwalk, and checking out the Estes Park Memorial Observatory are some of the unusual activities available.
What’s free to do in Estes Park?
Free activities include days of free admission to Rocky Mountain National Park, free concerts at Performance Park, visiting the park at Bond Park, driving scenic routes, and window shopping along Elkhorn Avenue.
What are the best things to do in Estes Park?
The best activities to take into consideration are hiking to Emerald Lake, taking Trail Ridge Road Drive, and a visit to the historic Stanley Hotel.
Are there family-friendly activities in Estes Park?
Yes, of course! Activities that are friendly to families include taking a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, going to the Estes Park Discovery Center, and having amusement at Fun City.
What are some of the outdoor activities in Estes Park?
Outdoor activities Estes Park offers for individuals include hiking, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking.
What festivals are held in Estes Park?
Throughout the year, Estes Park has several festivals like Rooftop Rodeo, Fall Festival, Elk Fest, Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, and Estes Park Winter Festival.
How Do I Relax in Estes Park?
Relax in a local spa with some yoga and hot spring near. Estes Park offers ample relaxation and rejuvenation.
Indeed, historical tours include the Stanley Hotel, Baldpate Inn, and guided tours through historical buildings, churches, and cemeteries in Estes Park.
Estes Park, Colorado, is a lively, diverse location that really has a little bit for everyone. Whether a nature enthusiast, outdoor fanatic, or history devotee, this small mountain town has endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Hiking within Rocky Mountain National Park to shopping and dining in the tiny, charming downtown area, the list of fun things to do in Estes Park is exhaustive. Pack up, hit the road, and go out to discover everything this beautiful Colorado town has in store for you. See the beauty of the Rockies, embrace rich culture and history, and bring back home memories that last at Estes Park.