Estes Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado, and with good reason: It offers some of the state’s scenic mountain vistas, wildlife rich countryside. You might be a stone’s throw from roaming elk if it felt like visiting your windowpane along with proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Estes Park is every outdoor enthusiasts dream whether you are a hiker, whitewater rafter or just want to fish. Keene may be a small town, but it has its share of surprises. Even visitors without burgeoning rail interests will find things to do at any number of museums and art classes offered in the area.
A native to the Denver area, I have always loved going up and do it as often as possible. Wondering what you can do there? Continue reading to find out more about the top things to do in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Best Things To Do in Estes Park, Colorado
1. Wander Through Downtown Estes Park
It stays tucked along a few blocks of Elkhorn and Moraine Avenues, following the Big Thompson River.
A lively place filled with boutique and souvenir stores, restaurants, galleries as well some outdoor patios which you can savour a cold meal along live music. You can eat Ice Breakers and taffy at one of the many candy shops around town.
Insider tip: Visit the Taffy Shop and Purple Mountain Taffy Company for a tasty treat from two of Estes Park’s favorite shops.
Even one afternoon downtown makes it to the top five Estes Park things to do.
HEADS-UP: This area gets crazy crowded, and parking tends to be tough already on race day even without the construction. Street parking is limited, so I would suggest going for paid lots. Behind the Historic Park Theatre; a good sized lot located approx at Rockwell Street & Riverside Drive.
2. Stroll Through Downtown Estes Park
At downtown Estes Park, a few blocks of Elkhorn and Moraine Avenues angling the Big Thompson River come alive with visitors.
Along this picturesque corridor you will find boutique shops and souvenir stands, restaurants & bars galore, art galleries with local artists showing off their wares as well as lovely patios fronting the streets where live music can be enjoyed along any number of cool beverages. There are also no shortage of candy shops including ice cream, taffy and chocolate.
Pro Tip: The Taffy Shop & Purple Mountain Taffy Co are always a hit with the crowds!
One of the best things to do in Estes Park is spend an afternoon downtown.
Be forewarned: This is high-traffic area and street parking can be um, tough (construction doesn’t help). However, I would recommend utilizing the pay parking lots as there is little to no street side allocated space. Parking available in large lot behind the Historic Park Theatre off Rockwell Street and Riverside Drive.
3. Lake Estes
Lake Estes is a relatively small reservoir that you can walk to from most of town. The community features beach access, walking paths and a marina for kayaking, paddle boarding or boating.
Whether you spend the day swimming or walking around taking in breathtaking views of mountains, this is one place everyone loves to be.
If you require things, many providers around the pond hire kayaks and also paddleboards.
Insider Tip: If you want a good alternative to Estes Lake, Lily Lake is only 15 minutes away from town. It is located in Rocky Mountain National Park, so admission requires a park pass which I will describe more below. The lake allows non-motorized boats, but there are no rental companies located on site.
4. The Stanley Hotel
The historic Stanley Hotel is a famous landmark in Estes Park that you should not miss. This Colonial Revival hotel, built in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was a wonder for it’s time.
F.O. Stanley, the hotel’s creator also played a significant role in creation of most if not all of Estes Parks infrastructure from back as then early time when he originally fell sucker to that running for power plant on Fall River Hydroplant and bringing electricity into such raw town way out there either by horse or automobile.
Decades later, the hotel would go on to find worldwide fame when it served as inspiration for Stephen King’s landmark novel The Shining.
The stay was at the end of the season and they were the only overnight guests in all 140 rooms: Stephen King (and his wife) spent a night in Room 217. This bizarre and creepy stay is what inspired King to start writing The Shining, which he had planned out almost entirely in his head by the next morning.
Fun Fact: Contrary to popular belief, The Shining movie is not actually filmed at the Stanley Hotel much to Stephen King’s dismay.
You can even book a night in King’s Room 217! Keep in mind to plan ahead as it fills up quickly, but is quite interesting and engaging activity if you are at Estes Park.
You can always explore the property or eat at one of its restaurants or bars even if you are not staying overnight.
The hotel also offers special events and tours, such as the very popular ghost tours. What you need to know: $10 non-overnight visitor parking fees.
5. Take a Leisurely Walk Along the Estes Park Riverwalk
Set along the Big Thompson River and Fall River that wind their way through town, Estes Park’s rivers make Downtown an even more charming spot in this lovely little town.
Have a coffee and relax by the river Downtownizing morning. Or, if your place is walking distance of the river, make yourself a backyard “river walk. By far, one of the best things to do in Estes Park.
Insider Tip: It is best to plan wildlife viewing in the early mornings and evening hours along this river.
6. Experience Rocky Mountain National Park
Home to the famous neighbor of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is one that always ranks as in the top 5 national parks (by visitation) every year. It’s stunning outlooks, boundless paths for hiking and nature as well all wilderness attract tourists to its boot laces.
It is located in Estes Park, and you will likely spend at least one day using this iconic park.
How about Creating a Video Walk-throughYou will of course make your decision based on how open you are to time. If you only have one day I recommend hiking the trails up to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake then a drive on some of Trail Ridge Road.
Pro Tip: Wear layers because it is much colder and windier at the park’s higher elevations than in town.
Timed-entry reservations are needed (in addition to entry fee) during peak season, and these must be arranged beforehand. I will note – those slots go quickly, plan ahead.
7. Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
There are over 300 miles of trails to enjoy at Rocky Mountain National Park — every single one with a breathtaking view. The trail you choose will vary depending on your skill level and the length of time that is available.
Some of the easiest yet still beautiful hikes in the park are: Alberta Falls, Bear Lake (lots to do around here – Dream & Emerald Lakes and Glacier Gorge Trail), or just ask a ranger for some suggestions!
Chasm Lake, Sky Pond, Bear Lake to Fern Lake Trailhead and then there is also h Here are a few challenging hikes that will give you breathtaking views at the end: ocene Lake Haiyaha For more experienced climbers.
Regardless of the difficulty, get an early start—8 or 9 am at the very least. It offers the only public camping permitted in the park, on a first-come, limited number of spaces basis (the road opens at 8am everyday). The trails get crowded as well during this part of day and summer afternoons bring storms.
8. Journey Along Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in North America, crossing Cotinental Divide and cresting at over 12,000 feel high. And what a beautiful place to admire the scenery along this historic byway! It continues for 48 miles and terminates at the park’s west entrance, where you will have to turn around and go back towards Estes Park. Expected round trip duration: 2 —3 hours.
I recommend if you have a short amount of time to drive up with as far at the Alpine Visitor Center and turn around. As the highest visitor center in America, this is a great place to get out of your car and walk around even if only for cookies or an outhouse break.
Because of the high altitude at which they reside, Trail Ridge Road, for example is only open seasonally from around Memorial Day through early fall when it can close unexpectedly due to weather.
9. the Estes Park Museum
Most mountain towns in Colorado rose to prominence because of mining. Estes Park is an exception.
Estes Park exploded in popularity as a vacation destination during the early 1900s due to it’s beautiful views of Colorado peaks and establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park in 1915.
This little museum gives some historical background to Estes Park, which makes it an interesting break if you want a bit of culture with your mountainouos adventures. Just a few minutes from downtown, this is both free and really great indoor activities in Estes Park!
Additional Museums in Estes Park
Looking to visit more museums in Estes Park? Consider these options:
- MacGregor Ranch Museum & Homestead
- Stanley Home Museum & Education Center
- Historic Fall River Hydroplant
- Estes Park Memorial Observatory
- Lula W. Dorsey Museum
10. Wildlife Watching in Estes Park
The town of Estes Park is renowned for its plentiful elk and deer colonies. The animals are true migrants, moving to higher elevations surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer and lower ones near town during fall and winter.
The region is also lousy with moose, black bears and bobcats — mountain lions are more elusive.
Wildlife is not as easy to find, but the best time of day for them to be active is first or last few hours around a water source.
11. Attend Elk Fest & Experience the Elk Rut
Celebration of Estes Park’s elk Community (yearly) The festival, held each fall (usually very late September and early October) is a mix of activities and events centered around these amazing animals.
Festival events include educational seminars, a pow-wow with traditional dancing and storytelling from Native Americans, arts and crafts for everyone in the family, local vendors selling their goods including hand-made jewelry to hot sauce & sun chairs the whole way down delicious food options all weekend long along with live music on main stage playing through Sunday afternoon as well they offer a beer garden.
You can still watch the elk rut, even if you cannot make it to a festival.
Elk are in their mating season, or rut, from mid-September until about the middle of October. At this time it is possible to observe many elk in large groups as well the characteristic bugling and fighting between male bulls.
That often happens at lower elevations — which is why it’s not unusual to see this just outside of town, and even sometimes within downtown. Or better yet, observing the rut as it happens. Elk are one of the largest mammals in North America, with males weighing up to 700 pounds and measuring as tall as eight or nine feet at shoulder height. And remember to keep a safe distance!
Pro Tip: If you plan a visit during the rut book your accommodations as far in advance possible, this is one of Estes Parks busiest times.
12. Festivals & Events in Estes Park
While Elk Fest is one of the most well-known events in Estes Park, the town hosts a variety of exciting festivals throughout the year.
Here are some of the most popular:
- Scandinavian Midsummer Festival
- Estes Park Winter Festival & Winter Trails Day
- Estes Park Wine Festival
- Whiskey Warmup
- Autumn Gold Festival
- Rocky Mountain Craft Spirits Festival
- Pumpkins & Pilsners Festival
- Frozen Dead Guy Days
- Rooftop Rodeo
- Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
13. Chapel on the Rock
Chapel on the Rock which is a regular functioning Catholic church located fewer than 20 min from Estes Park. Conceived by Monsignor Joseph Bosetti in 1916 after reading about Christ’s statement “Upon this rock I will build my church,” it was finally built between the years of 1929 -1938.
In an astonishing and thrilling way, this place experienced almost disasters around a decade such as fire or flood.
The chapel is open to the public free of charge. The inside may be quite tight but it is very well constructed, and there is a café nearby offering people the time to enjoy coffee right after they tour the house.
14. Performance Park Amphitheater
The Performance Park Amphitheater is an outdoor concert and entertainment venue in downtown. Set in the midst of rock faces that border Fall River on two sides, it makes for an truly picturesque setting.
One of the places people love for concerts, plays, movie screenings and many other events all year.
In the summer time, it’s one of their well-attended events with groups like Estes Park Jazz Festival and Summer Concert Series.
15. Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Ride an aerial tram 3.5 minutes to the top of Prospect Mountain for stunning vistas, nature trails and a cafe around (try a cocktail!). Robert Heron designed and built the historic tram, which began operations in 1955. Amazingly, it remains family owned and operated today — having safely ascended more than 3 million visitors to the summit of Prospect Mountain.
Tips: Make sure you take the tram into Ellicott City early during your day visit because it fills uplater on.
During summer months and weather permitting (the tramway may close unexpectedly due for high winds a restaurant are open on top.
16. Join an Art Class
Try an Art Class at Inspired Artisan Market & Studio in Estes Park.
You can be assured of a friendly welcome that is suitable for all ages, and have the opportunity to ignite your creative side in a social environment with art classes so why not give it go! Check out the class schedule for a number of these options, such as acrylic pour painting, alcohol ink landscapes and metal embossing at Inspired Artisan.
And, these classes are prefect for a creating memory or just having fun inside on outside.
17. Watch a Movie at Historic Park Theatre
Make sure to check out the Historic Park Theatre (one of only three continuously operating cinemas nationwide) while you’re wandering downtown.
This movie theater was opened in 1913, it has one entire a hundred year earlier.
In this expertly restored historic cinema, you will see new releases and classic films blended with documentaries.
18. River Rafting
Estes Park is surrounded by rivers, it’s not the best for rafting though. If you want the true white-water rafting adventure, travel up to The Cache La Poudre River which is roughly 1 hour’s drive north of Estes Park and near Fort Collins.
The Poudre River is home to gentle Class I rapids and even more challenging Class IV.
Out-of-towners should also enjoy the Rocky Mountain thrill of a river rafting excursion while in town!
Note: The Colorado River is also home to white water rafting as well, about 2 hours drive. This is where lots of the popular tours are run from in Idaho Springs.
19. Drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
If you love the view of Rocky Mountains than this is a perfect drive for passing through.
Colorado’s first scenic byway is the 55-mile route between Estes Park and I-70 that meanders through Clear Creek Canyon, Black Hawk.
The road cuts through thick evergreen forests, traverses river drainages and rolls past crystal clear mountain lakes where you’ll have the chance to view 14ers (mountain peaks with altitudes over 1400 feet) capped in snow.
The drive is about 2 hours each way without stops, but it’s a good choice for people who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery around Estes Park.
20. Horseback Riding
Estes Park, located at the entryway to Rocky Mountain National Park is ideal for horse lovers as they can go pummeling through the mountains on a steed. Situated near Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is home to some of the best views in all of Colorado.
Riders who prefer quieter forested trails can gaze at sweeping mountain panoramas or renowned RMNP canvases.
21. Open Air Adventure Park
The Open Air Adventure Park boasts opportunities for a thrilling aerial adventure, as challenge their agility between ziplines and among rope bridges, tree-top passages and other obstacles.
While it’s best for older kids and teens, this park is meant to be fun since how tricky you make a course depends on your age. With a variety of courses from beginner to expert, it is one of the fun things to do in Estes Park.
On top of climbing in the trees, Open Air Adventure Park offers axe throwing and kayaking tours due to being partnered with Kayak Colorado.
22. Explore a Brewery, Winery, or Distillery
Colorado is famous for its craft beer scene, and sampling a local brew is a must for many visitors. Fortunately, Estes Park has plenty of excellent options!
Here are some of the top breweries in Estes Park:
- Estes Park Brewery
- Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
- Rock Cut Brewing Company
- Avant Garde Aleworks
- The Post Chicken & Beer
Prefer wine or spirits? Estes Park also offers some great choices:
- Snowy Peaks Winery
- Elkins Distilling Co. & Tasting Room
- Estes Park Distilling Co.
And no matter where you plant yourself, don’t forget to check out their event calendars — most of them have themed nights like bingo (Wintah!
Local or otherwise overwhelmed for choice, you can sample from a wide range of local and national craft beers at The Barrel.
23. KMAC Guides
KMAC Guides (formerly Kent Mountain Adventure Center) is an outdoor adventure company with world-class experience, offering guided rock climbing trips and mountaineering courses. Founded in 1987, it is now a must-visit guide for outdoor enthusiasts no matter their expertise.
While many are attracted to KMAC for its rock climbing programs and via ferrata courses, suitable for both beginners or advanced climbers. Climbers of all experiences safely climb various routes in the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park with expert guides providing safety instruction and support.
KMAC also leads guided day hikes and mountain climbs, up to the top of Longs Peak at over 14,000 feet! They also offer snowshoeing adventures if you happen to be visiting Estes Park during the winter, which is an entirely unique way to experience RMNP in its snowy state.
24. Wildlife Tour
Estes Park is a wildlife haven with elk, moose, bighorn sheep and mule deer frequently spotted in the area. For the wildlife enthusiasts who would like to see these beautiful animals outside from crowded areas private sa fast trips is always a good choice.
Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers looking to capture the beauty of Estes Park’s natural wild life, these tours are offered as full or half day experiences in every season.
25. Golf in Estes Park
For you golfers, Estes Park has two definitely enjoyable courses that offer breathtaking mountain views on every hole.
Estes Park Golf Course: This 18-hole course is situated on the east side of town and offers spectacular views of Longs Peak, as well as other mountains. The course presents a variety of obstacles to stimulate the golfer.
The course also offers a range, practice putting green, short game area and clubhouse with restaurant & shop (awarded for great food in 2018)
Lake Estes 9-Hole Golf Course- centrally located in town, it is just a few blocks away from the heart of downtown. This scenic course, great for all skill levels of the golfer has been specifically designed to blend harmoniously with nature and offers spectacular views of Lake Estes & surrounding mountains.
Estes Park’s 9-hole Lake Estes Golf Course, overlooking Longs Peak Lake, features a putting green and pro shop.
The courses are both seasonal and typically open April-October, with wild animals making appearances during your round on either course.
26. E-Bike Tour of Estes Park
E-Bike Tour of Estes Park For those wanting to venture out with a guide, an e-bike tour is perfect.
The convenience of an ebike makes it a great way to visit popular spots like the Stanley Hotel, riverwalk and Lake Estes Marina as your guide fills you in on history along the way.
27. Estes Park Memorial Observatory
Estes Park Memorial Observatory (Just off Lake Estes)- The astronomers of the future will be interested in more than just our mountains, RMs and lakes. Open to all visitors wishing for a stargazing opportunity unlike anything they’ll find stateside!
To this day, the observatory has a computer-controlled telescope in a rotating dome to observe all sorts of celestial objects: planets, stars and distant galaxies.
The facility also contains a classroom and workshop area complete with astronomy- and space-exploration-centric exhibits.
The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is open to the public on specific nights of the year. As capacity is limited, reservations are required. The observatory is also home to various events, such as stargazing parties and workshops.
28. ATVing in Estes Park
Estes Park is a popular spot for ATVing, you can drive around the majestic Rocky Mountain surroundings and have actual fun doing it. Roosevelt National Forest and Arapaho National Forest contain a number of such trails that offer great vistas as well as this necessary ingredient for those on wilderness assignment.
29. Go Fishing
The clear lakes and streams here make it a prime fishing spot.
Top fishing areas in Estes Park are the Big Thompson River, Fall River and Lake Estes where anglers can fish for different species like trout or walleye.
Inexperienced fishermen might prefer guided fishing tours, which are also available to anyone new to the sport or for those simply looking for advice from local experts. If you want to go out your own, try a number of Estes Park outfitters and equipment rental opportunities.
Several of the fishing stores in the region are shown here:
- Kirks Fly Shop
- Estes Angler
- Fly Fish Estes Park
- Lost Outfitters
- Rockies Fly Fishing
Remember, Colorado has fishing regulations you must follow, including those that are catch and release which is regulated by the CPW. You also need a Colorado fishing license if you’re 16 or older.
Day Trips from Estes Park
If you have extra time, a day trip from Estes Park is a great way to explore the surrounding beauty and nearby mountain towns.
Estes Park is ideally situated for quick getaways to several picturesque destinations. Here are a few popular options:
- Grand Lake
- Boulder
- Nederland
- Lyons
- Central City & Blackhawk
- Fort Collins
Each of these spots offers its own unique charm and is well worth a visit.
Getting to Estes Park
Flying
Denver International Airport – The closest major airport to Estes Park, located about 1.5 hours away. From the airport, you can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle service to Estes Park.
Driving
- Downtown Denver to Estes Park – 1 hour, 30 minutes (66 miles)
- Colorado Springs to Estes Park – 2 hours, 50 minutes (133 miles)
If you’re driving from Denver or Colorado Springs, you’ll take I-25 to either Highway 36 or Highway 34.
How to Get Around Estes Park
For those of you planning on hitting Rocky Mountain National Park, the best way to get around is by car — which I guess makes exploring Estes part easy. Estes Park has a good deal of walkability, particularly in the downtown area, but public transportation and rideshare services are somewhat limited.
Where to Stay in Estes Park
There is no wide variety of lodging in Estes Park other than small hotels, cabins and Airbnb / VRBO rentals. There are hardly any chain hotels here, which only adds to the charm.
Weather in Estes Park
Summer:
The summers in Estes Park are mild with the daytime highs typically in mid to upper 70s°F while falling into the lower 50s°F during nighttime. Most days if afternoon t-storms develop they are short-lived with lightning being the primary concern, especially at higher elevations.
Fall:
Autumn starts with September that still feels like summer and a bit warm until on early October it start to drop down till November such as 50s Middle some high40Fs low then High30Fs middle20sLow itself, sometimes snow never sayin’ a forty (it is what South Park says right.).
Winter:
Winters can be cold, with daytime highs in the 30s°F (0°C) and lows at night into the teenagers. There is a lot of snow in these months.
Spring:
Spring — May to June Spring in Estes park is cold like high 40s°F, low 50s° with lows hovering around the mid-20F. March and April are usually heavy snow months while ice starts declining at Ebbs Park bottom elevations by late spring but higher points remain fully covered still.
Be ready for the intense winds all season long in Estes Park.
Estes Park Elevation
At an elevation of 7,523 feet above sea level, Estes Park is the most elevated town in Colorado.
Altitude sickness is a concern for some visitors, given the elevation here. Signs often include headache, dizziness or nausea and dyspnea. These symptoms may continue until you descend to lower ground so that physical or psychological remedies are quite useful.
To reduce your risk, spend a day or two in Denver before driving up to Estes Park. Gives your body time to get use to the higher altitude You should also continue to drink lots of water and abstain from drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes or performing hard physical activities.
As one of the top places to visit in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Estes Park has no shortage of amazing things to do. You are guaranteed to have a great time with all the exploration work that it gives.
