Things To Do
Rocky Mountain National Park
If you're going to be in Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National park is a must-do. I(Griffin) highly recommend going to Bear Lake. It is about a 30 minute drive from the park entrance but there is no hiking involved at all. You park(in a parking lot with bathrooms) and walk for maybe 3 minutes and you're at one of the most gorgeous views and first spots I got to see when I moved to Colorado. Bundle up, you'll be climbing the majority of the drive so don't be surprised if the temp drops by at least 15 degrees!
Elk Watching
October is THE time to see Elk in Estes Park and it's hard to miss them. This is the time of year where they come down from the mountains and try to find their winter mates so you'll here some desperate bugles going on. Look for them at both golf courses and walking around downtown. Sunrise and sunset are the best, but there's a good chance you'll see them hanging around the McDonalds at 2:00 too. Please don't be THOSE tourists and try and get too close. They are wild animals and as cuddly and friendly as they look, they do not want to cuddle with you; I'm sorry.
The Stanley Hotel
This Estes Park hotel was the inspiration behind Stephen King's "The Shining", so it is viewed as one of the most haunted buildings in the United States. Ghost tours are available if you want to do some bonding, and there's also an amazing bar for a different kind of bonding. Dumb and Dumber was also filmed here
Golf
I know we have golfers on both sides of the family and I have good news for everyone flying in from sea level.. your drives go 20 yards further in the mountains. Estes Park has a 9 hole course and 18 hole course, but try and get out before the Elk do, they love the fairways.
Fort Collins
About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Estes Park, Fort Collins is where we call home and we would love everyone to have the opportunity to see why we ran away all those years ago(we promise you'll understand). Old Town(downtown) Colorado was the influence behind Main Street U.S.A at Disney World and has so much to offer.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Located 15-20 minutes outside of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Resevoir is an amazing spot to escape the city. Hiking trails, rock climbing, fishing and just relaxing. If you can catch a sunset here, it's one of the best you'll see.
Chautauqua Park
If you're making your way to Estes Park via Boulder, Chautauqua Park is hard to miss. Another no hike option for those of you who are trying to get the full Colorado experience.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
If you have the time, definitely head to Morrison to check out Red Rocks. Even if there isn't a show that day, it's still a great venue to check out. There's also a museum and restaurant to help kill some time. Be sure to take your time, those steps are no joke at this elevation.
