Jennifer & Michael
Things To Do
Hiking and Walking Trails
You wouldn't be in Colorado if you didn't have the opportunity to hike! With Estes Park nestled in the Rockies, there are plenty of nearby hiking trails of various levels in Rocky Mountain National Park. For safety reasons, be sure to hike with water, sunscreen, and a buddy. There are also easy walking trails in Estes Park itself. The Riverwalk, which winds through downtown Estes Park, provides a lovely, shaded stroll through town. Alternatively, you might choose to walk around Lake Estes, which is encircled by a 3.75-mile paved trail.
The Stanley Hotel
Check out The Stanley Hotel, an iconic, historical landmark built in the early 1900s. Known as the inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining", this hotel has a spooky reputation. Consider booking a historic day tour or a paranormal folklore night tour of the property. You can also explore the grounds on your own, and wander through the hotel's main lobby and the Lower Level exhibit.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Take some time to drive through the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). You will have incredible views of the Rockies and of Estes Park. You can even drive up to the top of the Continental Divide! Keep an eye out for elk and bighorn sheep, but be sure to drive slowly, as wildlife tend to wander onto the roads. Note that both a timed-entry permit and an entrance pass are currently required to enter the RMNP. Be sure to book your reservation well in advance of your arrival to Estes Park, because time slots fill quickly. Click the "view" link below for more information.
Elkins Distilling Co.
Interested in sitting down for a dram? Stop by Elkins, our favorite local whisky distillery! They have a downtown Estes Park storefront, but we strongly recommend visiting the distillery near Lake Estes. Elkins was the town's first legal distillery!
Downtown Estes Park
Be sure to leave some time to wander through the charming downtown of Estes Park. There are a number of art galleries and shops with local and unique creations. You can also drop in to the Estes Park Brewery, or ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the top of Prospect Mountain. Don't forget to stop by one of the town's many taffy shops for a sweet treat!
Other nearby towns to explore
If you will be extending your stay in Colorado, you might consider exploring some of the cities and towns outside of Estes Park. Lyons is a cute town about 30 minutes away. You might also choose to spend a day in Boulder, a city about an hour south of Estes Park. Or, travel about an hour northeast to visit Fort Collins.