Estes Park is a picturesque town located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA. It serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town itself is characterized by charming mountain architecture, a lively downtown with shops and restaurants, and a welcoming community. Visitors to Estes Park can explore a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The town is also home to the historic Stanley Hotel, known for its association with Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Estes Park attracts nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Rockies. Whether it’s exploring the national park, enjoying the serenity of mountain lakes, or strolling along the charming streets, Estes Park offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
Setting the Stage: The History of Estes Park
Estes Park has been a playground for lovers of the outdoors for thousands of years. The first people to visit the area were ancestors of today’s Native Americans, who hunted big game animals in the area. Native American tribes, including the Ute and Arapaho, were among the early inhabitants of the region. The Arapahoe and Ute tribes routinely visited Estes Park during the summer months to enjoy the ideal climate. Trappers and explorers also ventured into the area during the early 1800s.
The town is named after Joel Estes, who arrived in October 1859 and established a homestead near the Big Thompson River. His family contributed significantly to the early development of the area. As a farmer-turned-minor-turned cattle rancher, Estes believed the valley held promise and moved to the area with his family. Others, intrigued by the possibilities of the valley, followed the Estes family and settled the land. In 1864 William Byers, then editor of the Rocky Mountain News, named the area in honor of his hosts, Joel Estes and his family. The town of Estes Park was incorporated in April 1917.
Estes Park gained prominence as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, which was established in 1915. The park’s creation helped boost tourism and establish Estes Park as a base for exploring the Rockies. Throughout the 20th century, Estes Park continued to grow, with tourism playing a pivotal role in its economy. The town’s stunning natural surroundings and proximity to outdoor recreation areas contributed to its popularity.
Estes Park faced challenges, including devastating floods such as the Big Thompson River flood in 1976. The community has shown resilience in overcoming natural disasters. Today, Estes Park remains a vibrant mountain town, offering a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community. Its history is intertwined with the exploration and appreciation of the Rocky Mountains, making it a cherished destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Discover Estes Park’s Hidden Gems
Key Attractions
The Stanley Hotel
Visit the historic Stanley Hotel, famous for inspiring Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Take a guided tour or enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 110-year-old Stanley Hotel is famous for its iconic architecture and spectacular setting overlooking Rocky Mountain National Park. Guests have a choice of lodging: the historic hotel, adjacent boutique lodge or nearby luxurious Aspire Residences, and the opportunity to take guided excursions into Rocky Mountain National Park. Historic and Night Spirit Tours run daily and world-class entertainers, musicians, comedians and inspirational speakers perform on site regularly through the Stanley Live Concert Series.
MacGregor Ranch
The MacGregor Ranch is the last remaining working cattle ranch in Estes Park. Built in 1873 the MacGregor Ranch is one of few sites operating as both a working ranch and youth education center. It offers a window into the past for guests who can observe horses, ranch hands working the field and cattle grazing the meadow.
Seven Keys Lodge Key Room
Named after the mystery novel, “Seven Keys to Baldpate,” Seven Keys Lodge, formerly known as the Baldpate Inn, opened in 1917. In keeping with the story line of the novel, the proprietors gave each guest to the Inn their very own key. The tradition ended during World War I, but loyal guests returned every year with their own keys from exotic locales around the world, thus creating the world’s largest key collection, now boasting more than 20,000 keys including those from the Pentagon, Westminster Abby, Mozart’s wine cellar, and even Frankenstein’s castle.
Historic Park Theatre
Historic Park Theatre, the oldest operating movie theatre west of the Mississippi River, was built in 1913. The theatre has been renovated and still shows films today. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Estes Park Museum
Discover the history of the town and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts at the Estes Park Museum. The Estes Park Museum was founded by volunteers in 1962. The Museum’s purpose is to collect, interpret and preserve local history, as well as to present exhibits, programs and events for the education and benefit of residents and guests of all ages. There is no admission.
Historic Fall River Hydroplant
The hydroplant was built by F.O. Stanley in 1909 to power the Stanley Hotel, and was the source for power in the Town of Estes Park. The plant now serves as an interpretive center open to the public and features the original equipment installed by Stanley.
Estes Park Memorial Observatory
Opened in 2009, the observatory has a 16-foot dome which allows guests to enjoy Estes Park’s clear, star filled skies and star gaze through a 12-inch computer controlled telescope.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Experience panoramic views of the surrounding mountains by taking a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. One of the few European-style cable cars operating in the U.S., the aerial tramway provides riders with a bird’s-eye view of Estes Park from the end of May through early September.
Lake Estes Marina
Open from May through early October, the marina offers rentals from kayaks to pontoon boats to paddleboards, as well as pedal cart and cruise bike rentals to enjoy on a ride along the Lake Estes Trail.
Active Pursuits
- Hiking: Estes Park boasts numerous hiking trails for various skill levels. Some popular options include Bear Lake Trail, Dream Lake Trail, and the Emerald Lake Trail.
- Rock Climbing & Ice Climbing
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country & Backcountry Skiing
- Cycling & Mountain Biking
- High Altitude Training & Trail Running
- Cliff Camping
- Climbing the Via Ferrata
Water Adventures
- Fishing & Fly Fishing
- Boating & Kayaking
- Standup Paddleboarding
Nature Excursions
- Photography Safaris & Nature Classes o Birding, Wildlife Viewing
- Horseback Riding
- Stargazing Classes
Scenic Drives
- Trail Ridge Road
- Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
- Fall River Road
- Off-roading & Jeep Tours
Leisure Activities
- Explore downtown Estes Park: Wander through the charming downtown area, exploring unique shops, art galleries, and enjoying local cuisine.Golfing – Estes Park boasts two regulation golf courses, as well as multiple miniature courses for family fun
- Shopping – More than 300 boutique shops
- Visit Open Air Adventure Park: This family owned and operated aerial adventure park is a course fit for thrill seekers ages five and up. The 90-minute adventure consists of 32 different elements at 10 and 21 feet above ground.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxation, Estes Park offers a diverse range of activities to suit various interests. For those who enjoy or prefer guided excisions and activities, Viator provides a wide variety to choose from. From snowshoeing excursions to sledding tours in Rocky Mountain National Park, Viator provides the best of the best.
Exploring The Great Outdoors
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning and diverse national park located in the northern part of the U.S. state of Colorado. It is one of the most popular and iconic national parks in the United States, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife. The park is named after the Rocky Mountains, which dominate the landscape. It includes a significant portion of the Front Range of the Rockies, featuring many towering peaks, including Longs Peak, which stands at 14,259 feet (4,346 meters) and is the park’s highest point. Check out my full Visitor’s Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park
Roosevelt National Forest
Roosevelt National Forest is a national forest located in north-central Colorado, USA. The forest spans across a vast area northwest of Denver, encompassing parts of Larimer, Boulder, and Clear Creek counties. Roosevelt National Forest features diverse landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and grasslands. It is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The forest offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. Popular destinations within the forest include the Cache la Poudre River and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, mule deer, black bears, and various bird species. It provides habitat for a range of ecosystems, contributing to the region’s biodiversity.
There are numerous trails for hiking and backpacking, catering to different skill levels. These trails provide access to the forest’s natural beauty and offer opportunities for exploration. Roosevelt National Forest provides various campgrounds for both developed and dispersed camping. This allows visitors to experience the outdoors while enjoying the tranquility of the forest.
The U.S. Forest Service manages Roosevelt National Forest, working to balance conservation, recreation, and resource utilization. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or simply enjoying nature, Roosevelt National Forest provides a diverse and accessible destination in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Hermit Park
Hermit Park is situated southeast of Estes Park and provides a peaceful and scenic setting in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The park is owned and managed by Larimer County. It offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region while engaging in various recreational activities. Hermit Park provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and camping. There are trails that lead through diverse landscapes, allowing visitors to explore the natural surroundings. The park offers camping facilities, including both RV and tent sites. Camping at Hermit Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the mountain environment while still having access to amenities.
Visitors to Hermit Park can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park’s elevation provides a refreshing mountain experience. The area is home to various wildlife species, and visitors may have the chance to see birds, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat. Like many mountain parks, Hermit Park’s accessibility can be influenced by seasonal factors. It’s advisable to check with Larimer County or the park’s official website for current information on opening times and any seasonal restrictions. Hermit Park is a great destination for those seeking a quieter and more secluded outdoor experience while still being relatively close to the amenities of nearby towns like Estes Park. Always check with local authorities for the latest information before planning a visit.
Embracing The Great Outdoors: Preparing
- Dress appropriately! I highly recommend wearing layers. With the high-altitude mountain climate, you don’t want to be caught underprepared.
- Wear sunscreen! Don’t let the cold air fool you. This Sun Bum face mist makes SPF on-the-go super easy.
- Wear good shoes. I highly recommend investing in some good hiking boots. I bought my Columbia hiking boots before my first Colorado trip 4 years ago and I am beyond grateful I did.
- A good backpack with essential gear goes a long way. Having water, snacks, and a first-aid kit are absolute minimums.
Culinary Quests
Estes Park offers a wide variety of dining options although a few stand out from the rest. This trip we were only there for one night and decided to get dinner at Bird and Jim. Everything we tried was absolutely delicious. We were HUNGRY and ended up ordering several appetizers and entrees.
Bird and Jim Restaurant
If you are only staying one night, this place is a dining MUST!
Bird and Jim is a casual, rustic eatery offering locally sourced meats & produce, plus hearty mountain fare & wine.
915 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
Getting To Estes Park
To get to Estes Park, Colorado, you have a few options:
- By Car: Estes Park is accessible by car, and the most common route is from Denver. Take I-25 North to Exit 243, then follow Highway 66 and US-36 West to reach Estes Park. The drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Shuttle Services: Some shuttle services operate between Denver International Airport (DIA) and Estes Park, providing a convenient option for those without a car. Check with shuttle companies for schedules and reservations.
- Rental Cars: Renting a car at Denver International Airport or in Denver gives you the flexibility to drive to Estes Park and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
- Public Transportation: While public transportation options to Estes Park are limited, you can take a bus from Denver to Boulder and then explore connecting options. However, it’s not the most direct or convenient choice.
- Fly and Drive: Fly into Denver International Airport and then rent a car to drive to Estes Park. This is a good option if you’re coming from a long distance.
Before making travel arrangements, it’s advisable to check current road conditions, especially if you’re visiting during winter when snowfall can impact mountain routes. Always consider factors like weather and seasonal variations in your travel plans.
Staying in Estes Park
The Estes Park Resort
Family-friendly Estes Park resort in Grand Estates with marina
Hotel Estes
Hotel near Historic Estes Park
4 Seasons Inn on Fall River
Riverfront motel in Estes Park with 3 spa tubs
Woodlands on Fall River
Riverwalk condos with kitchens and balconies
Whether it’s exploring the national park, enjoying the serenity of mountain lakes, or strolling along the charming streets, Estes Park offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
