places to visit near estes park colorado

25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Estes Park (Colorado)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

Estes Park is a well-known summer resort-type statutory town located in quaint Larimer County.

Situated along the beautiful Big Thompson River, it overlooks the Olympus Dam and Lake Estes and is famously referred to as the state’s Original Playground.

Before the days of European settlers, the region was home to the native Arapaho tribe, who commonly called the area “The Circle”.

For the most part, Estes Park is renowned for its natural beauty, untamed wilderness, and numerous outdoor experiences.

Most active in the summer, it draws nature enthusiasts from across the country and is filled with parks, trails, and adventuring opportunities.

But even in winter, many Estes Park attractions remain active, with snow sports opportunities for people of all ages.

Of course, there’s more to the little town than just nature, even if that is its main draw.

Historic locations, museums, and famous iconic structures dot the region, providing variety to the verdancy of its green backdrop.

So, what should you do while visiting, and what are the things to see that aren’t to be missed?

Here are the 25 best and fun things to do in Estes Park, Colorado.

Table of Contents

1. The Stanley Hotel

Phillip Rubino / Shutterstock

The Stanley Hotel may be one of America’s most iconic hotels.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is most famous for its connection to the iconic horror novel (and adapted movie) The Shining by Stephen King.

It is, in fact, the hotel where King became inspired to write that 1977 classic masterpiece, which cemented the building’s status as one of Colorado’s creepy tourist attractions!

Many people genuinely believe that The Stanley Hotel is haunted, especially given its long history dating back to 1909.

Today, it very much embraces that reputation and its connection to The Shining.

In fact, every single guest room plays an R-rated, completely uncut version of the first movie adaptation of the novel on a nonstop, 24/7 loop!

Of course, there’s more to the Stanley Hotel than its spooky associations.

Located along the foothills of the equally iconic Rocky Mountains, it is incredibly picturesque and delivers gorgeous views of the untamed wildlife of the National Park.

Famous guests of all sorts have spent time at the Estes Park hotel, ranging from the Emperor of Japan to Theodore Roosevelt.

The Stanley Hotel is of Georgian architecture, designed with 128 rooms on a whopping 35 acres of land.

It was named after its creator, Freelan O. Stanley, who is believed to continue to haunt the location.

He was inspired to build the hotel after he spent time here to help treat his tuberculosis with fresh air.

If you’re particularly interested in the paranormal rumors of the hotel, book a spot on the Night Spirit Tour, hosted by the hotel itself!

Address: 333 E Wonderview Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

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One of the most beautiful places to travel in the US is the Rocky Mountain National Park .

You can’t go to Estes Park – or to Colorado in general – without adding Rocky Mountain National Park to your list of what to do!

With over 250,000 acres of land and named mountain peaks totaling 124, there’s no surprise that it’s such a huge tourist draw no matter what the time of year is!

Rocky Mountain National Park is packed with sightseeing opportunities and many outdoor activities.

Outdoorsy individuals will love the many chances to bike, ride horses, camp, fish, and hike throughout the expanse of its 335 miles or so of trails.

These trails vary in difficulty, with options like the Dream Lake Trail for scenic, easy hiking for 2 miles, the Emerald Lake Trail spanning 3 miles for more of a challenge, and the extremely difficult Glacier Gorge Trail leading to Sky Pond for 10 miles of path.

The Rocky Mountains themselves are most visible from Trail Ridge Road, which maxes out at the majestic location of 12,183 feet above sea level.

In the winter months, Rocky Mountain National Park keeps itself busy with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding opportunities.

And of course, when it’s warmer, those interested in wildlife watching will have the chance to spot moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and more throughout the park’s expanse.

With deep lakes, craggy mountain peaks, meadows of verdancy, rivers against lush trees, and lots of campground space, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a perfect getaway this weekend.

Address: Colorado, United States

3. Lake Estes Marina

Lake Estes Marina

One of the most fun things to do in Estes Park is to head right to Lake Estes Marina , a lovely location for aquatic recreation.

The shoreline is ideal for sunbathing, the lake’s small expanse is ideal for fishing, and rentals for boats, canoes, kayaks, and life jackets add to the versatility of the location.

Not much of a water person?

You can still enjoy Lake Estes Marina!

The Estes Lake Trail winds around the main lake and runs for about 3.75 miles, providing opportunities for hiking and biking.

Views from the trail are always stunning, and you might be lucky enough to spot wildlife such as bears, bighorn sheep, and elk!

Address: 1770 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

4. Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Marcela Abrach / Shutterstock

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway has arguably been among Colorado’s top 10 attractions since it opened in 1955, and for good reason.

Its primary purpose is to bring guests all the way up to the very zenith of Prospect Mountain, carrying travelers to 9,000-foot elevations.

It is open from Memorial Day up till Labor Day every year and is operated by the Heron family, which is the very same family that originally built the tramway!

Over 3 million individuals have been brought over forests to the top of the mountain since the Estes Park Aerial Tramway first began operations.

It is designed to mimic the tram model common in Europe known as the free span tram, involving the use of a cable that runs from start to finish without towers.

This provides ample clear viewing space for photographs without any structures getting in the way.

After you’re done making the trip on the tramway, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Longs Peak, the Continental Divide, and the Rocky Mountains.

There’s also a delightful little gift shop and coffee shop for snacks and souvenirs.

You can then enjoy the hiking trail that begins at the Prospect Mountain summit for some further exploration!

Address: 420 E Riverside Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

5. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

Paul Brady Photography / Shutterstock

The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is the oldest byway of its kind in Colorado, making it one of the most relaxing recreational Estes Park attractions.

It is more than a century old and is a classic road trip location, moving from Estes Park down to the Victorian-era mining town of Central City.

With beautiful panoramic views surrounding the path of the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, you’ll be able to feast your eyes on the glory of nature as you travel the route.

It’s a great way to see the Continental Divide, with sites like the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Rocky Mountain National Park, Roosevelt National Forest, and Arapaho National Forest all visible during the journey.

Stops along the way range from campgrounds to ghost towns!

Address: 72 CO-7, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

6. Open Air Adventure Park

Open Air Adventure Park

Open Air Adventure Park is one of the most fun and unique places to visit for an outdoor experience in Estes Park, Colorado.

Packed with all sorts of activities, it is an adventure location providing a total of 32 outdoor challenges that range in difficulty for people of most ages.

Among the things you’ll be able to try at Open Air Adventure Park include crossing moving platforms, tightrope walking, traversing bridges of rope, swinging from logs high above the ground, and ziplines.

Some of these things are up to 21 feet above ground level, but don’t worry – it’s all perfectly safe thanks to the use of harnesses and the guidance of knowledgeable staff!

The course is also self-guided, so you can take your time trying out each obstacle one at a time with no pressure and tons of encouragement.

Address: 490 Prospect Village Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

7. Rapid Transit Rafting

Tom Oliveira / Shutterstock

Whitewater rafting has always been one of the best experiences to indulge in throughout Estes Park and its near regions.

The warm months of the state of Colorado are especially good for this activity thanks to the swelling of rivers with snowmelt.

Rapid Transit Rafting allows you to enjoy those experiences with varying difficulty choices and numerous launch points.

At Rapid Transit Rafting, you’ll get to opt for adventures of your choice and be guided by experienced staff throughout the journey.

Equipment and high-quality gear are all available to you, and the excursion also comes with the gorgeous natural backdrop of the state’s wilderness views.

Bring an extra set of clothes, as your first ones are sure to get soaked!

Address: 161 Virginia Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

8. Estes Park Museum

Estes Park Museum

Looking for some of the best places to visit in Estes Park?

The Estes Park Museum is one of the best places to go for those curious about the history, culture, and past of the local region, including the Rocky Mountain National Park near here.

The institute seeks to expansively catalog various objects and records of the town, housing a total of approximately 30,000 different items.

There’s something interesting for just about everyone at the Estes Park Museum, which has been in operation for approximately 50 years.

Postcards, photographs, tools, furniture, and much more make up the displayed artifacts.

Favored attractions include a genuine EX Stanley Steamer Runabout, which is a 1909 car powered by steam.

In addition, the museum has preserved a number of historic structures that you can visit.

One of these buildings is the Cobb-Macdonald Cabin, which dates back to 1908 and was a cabin for settlers.

Another is what was once the Rocky Mountain National Park’s center of affairs, now simply known as the National Park Headquarters Building.

Each trip to this lovely museum begins with a video that gives you a fascinating general overview of the town.

You can peruse the museum’s artifacts and exhibits at your leisure, learning about history dating as far back as the ice age that would lead to the mountains’ formation, the first Native American settlers, the 1862 Homestead Act, and the fur-trappers that made their way to the state shortly after.

You’ll then be able to move on to learn about the incorporation of the town in 1917, and finally, you’ll peruse some information about recent history, including a series of floods that plagues the town for a time.

Finish off with a visit to the gift shop, which sells all sorts of small souvenirs!

Address: 200 4th St, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

9. Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock

Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue are two fantastic roads that you can walk through in the downtown area of Estes Park, Colorado.

Packed with more than 200 different shops, it’s a fun way to explore local storefronts, galleries, restaurants, and more.

It can get pretty crowded during peak seasons, but that means it’ll be all the more lively as you explore this weekend!

Both Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue have interesting architecture as a result of some damage from 1982’s Lawn Lake Dam failure.

The flooding necessitated the rebuilding of some structures, leading to a mix of modern design alongside several more old-fashioned and rustic buildings from the homesteading era of timber-framed structures.

The result is a whimsical and picturesque locale perfect for a stroll!

Address: Estes Park, CO, United States

10. Kent Mountain Adventure Center

Kent Mountain Adventure Center

If you’re not sure what places to visit you should opt for in the backcountry area of Estes Park, Colorado, Kent Mountain Adventure Center can help you out.

Providing equipment and knowledgeable guides, it’s a great way to get around the area in an interesting way even when you lack the experience or skill involved.

Kent Mountain Adventure Center has been in business for more than three decades and has become well known in the industry for its instruction on rock climbing and mountaineering.

With experiences for people of all skill levels and varying lengths for different needs, they provide six different kinds of trips of different difficulties.

In the winter, options like snowshoeing, ice climbing, and skiing adventures are available, too!

Kent Mountain Adventure Center also has options for cliff picnics, cliff camping, rock scrambling, and youth camps.

The selection of programs and experiences is pretty impressive and changes seasonally, so check out what they have depending on when you’ll be there!

Address: 520 Steamer Pkwy, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

Exploring other parts of Colorado? Why not check out some of the things to do in Breckenridge, CO  & some of the fun things to do in Boulder ?

11. MacGregor Ranch Museum

MacGregor Ranch Museum

Ranches have been a core part of the culture and history of Colorado for over two hundred years, a crucial source of economic and community activity.

The MacGregor Ranch Museum celebrates this legacy with a genuine, perfectly preserved ranch from the 1870s.

Today, that ranch is used to showcase the lifestyles and backgrounds of Estes Park’s first few settlers.

Despite its age, the MacGregor Ranch Museum manages to maintain much of its original appearance and condition until now.

Its rugged, rural, wild hay meadow environment and structure come complete with horses, cattle, and even ranch hands that continue to inhabit and work at the location.

During the summer, the MacGregor Ranch Museum is open in full force with guided tours and a range of working buildings.

This includes farm structures, a blacksmith shop, a smokehouse, a homestead, a milk house, and a fair few fields to explore and learn more about.

It’s no surprise that it’s one of the area’s most interesting historical tourist attractions!

Address: 180 MacGregor Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

12. Jackson Stables

Jackson Stables

Jackson Stables is a part of the Estes Park Center YMCA, which is situated within Rocky Mountains National Park.

It’s a source for one of Colorado’s most fun activities – horseback riding!

The stables provide guests with a range of experiences relating to everyone’s favorite equestrian activity, with trail rides, tours, adventures, and more awaiting.

For equine enthusiasts, indulging in an activity at Jackson Stables should be on your list of what to do in Estes Park.

A mix of different affairs, ranging from hour-long rides to ones lasting entire days, allow you to fully explore all the ecological and natural beauty of the region.

From glacial basins to meadows of wildflowers, you’ll find lots of ways to unwind and lots of things to witness!

Jackson Stables also offers wagon rides, hayrides, pony rides, children’s events, fireside s’mores roasting events, and more.

The property is fairly historic and makes for a delightful way to experience the greatest that the town and its wilderness have to offer!

Address: 9500, 2515 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80511, United States

Looking for more thrill in Colorado? If you have more time and want to go exploring, here are some of the best things to do in Colorado !

13. Historic Park Theater and Cafe

Kit Leong / Shutterstock

Admittedly, there aren’t many deeply historical things to do in Estes Park.

So if that sort of enrichment is what you’re after, you shouldn’t miss the Historic Park Theater and Cafe !

It’s an iconic local landmark that dates back to 1913, owning the title of America’s oldest motion picture theater.

It’s a quaint and charming spot with impressive architecture that speaks of the heyday of Colorado’s turn of the century.

Despite its age, the Historic Park Theater and Cafe has been very much updated today, boasting neon lights across its impressive facade and state-of-the-art technology of surround sound and advanced digital projection.

Whether you seek independent flicks, blockbuster hits, documentaries, or even live theater, this icon of Estes Park will have choice entertainment ready for you!

Address: 130 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

14. Fun City

Fun City has been one of Colorado’s points of interest for more than five decades.

As its name suggests, it’s a haven of exciting recreational activities that are fantastic for people of all ages.

It’s an amusement park that offers a choice of tickets for either all-day passes or limited few-hour passes, depending on how much time you have to burn during your Estes Park holiday.

At Fun City, there’s no shortage of things to try and ways to be entertained.

You’ll be able to go gemstone panning, play carnival and arcade games, try out bumper boats and go-karts, play mini-golf, hop on a bungee trampoline, use water walking balls, and much more.

For such a long-running amusement location, it sure doesn’t let itself get outdated, and its convenient location south of the downtown area makes it all the more accessible.

Address: 455 Prospect Village Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

15. Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Colorado is well-known for its open, darker skies and clear views of the natural horizon, which makes for some of America’s best opportunities for stargazing.

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is one attraction that takes advantage of this specialty.

As a community and educational resource, it’s loved by locals and guests alike and is something of a hidden gem.

At the Estes Park Memorial Observatory, you’ll get to take in all sorts of stunning, jaw-dropping views of the stars and the heavenly bodies.

Knowledgeable staff, made up of volunteers, offer lots of educational information and arrange for viewing events of both public and private capacity.

Lectures involving cosmology, astronomy, and astrophotography are often held, too.

Address: 1600 Manford Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

16. Estes Park Outfitters

Estes Park Outfitters

Not sure what places to visit while you’re vacationing in Colorado?

Estes Park Outfitters offers tons of seasonal adventure and outdoor tours that bring you to all the greatest locations in and near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Depending on when you go, the company will have something different to offer you.

In the summers, Estes Park Outfitters provides horseback tours that vary in length depending on how far you’d like to travel, with the option for multiple days of tour packages with meals and a cabin stay.

Winters bring with them backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowcat ride tours.

Finally, the fall comes ripe with guided hunting tours where you’ll seek mule deer and elk.

Address: 5229 Little Valley Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

17. Rocky Guides

Serj Malomuzh / Shutterstock

One of the top activities that you can perform while exploring Estes Park and the natural world of Colorado is to go biking through the numerous available trails.

Rocky Guides offers a way to do that in an easy, engaging, and interesting way.

The company offers a selection of downhill bicycle tours of the area of Rocky Mountain National Park, with tours of varying difficulties and lengths.

Guests to Rocky Guides receive a helmet, bicycle, snacks, and water, so you don’t have to lug your cycling gear along with you.

The stunning scenery you’ll encounter on your journey will provide you with lots of photo opportunities and many sights for sore eyes!

Address: 2050 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

18. Rocky Mountain Rush Wildside 4×4 Tours

The Rocky Mountain Rush Wildside 4×4 Tours company is famous for providing high-adrenaline tours with off-roaders throughout the region of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park.

It’s a great way to see some of the most iconic Estes Park attractions with more aspects of adventure and thrill this weekend!

Rocky Mountain Rush Wildside 4×4 Tours provides its guests with many choices of places to go.

They’ll bring you through hills, rivers, backcountry trails, and more with a mix of large and small group tours in their custom-made vehicles.

There will be lots of chances to take photographs along the way and even the chance to avail of tours that come with scrumptious meals.

If you’re looking for something more urban, they also provide a downtown treasure hunt experience!

Address: 212 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

19. Yellow Wood Guiding

Margaret.Wiktor / Shutterstock

Looking to experience the full glory and beauty of the untamed wilderness of Colorado while you’re in Estes Park?

Then taking a tour with Yellow Wood Guiding should be on your list of stuff to do!

Small, private guided tours with a maximum of four guests provide an intimate exploration experience, packed with high-quality and knowledgeable guides and great equipment provided.

Yellow Wood Guiding offers a variety of tours catering to a number of different interests.

Wildlife and nature tours provide the ability to view all sorts of beautiful flora and fauna, and there’s also a photography safari tour that lets you take gorgeous photographs of the scenery.

Hiking tours for many different distances are also available for those who are interested in more physically demanding experiences.

20. Colorado Mountain School

lzf / Shutterstock

The Colorado Mountain School is one of the key places to visit in the area to learn all about wilderness survival, mountain navigation, and expedition safety and expertise.

The school has existed in many different names and forms since 1877, offering professional training and guides ideal for individuals who need a little help in their exploration of the town.

The Colorado Mountain School offers courses in ski mountaineering, rock climbing, avalanche education, general mountaineering, ice climbing, and even guide training.

A mix of full-day and half-day lessons are available, with the option for private guiding that you can book, as well as a lodge that you can use while you’re learning and training!

Address: 341 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

21. Hermit Park Open Space

Hermit Park Open Space is a sprawling area of preserved parkland totaling more than 1,300 acres of ground.

Located at elevations of 7,800 to close to 9,000 feet, it is open from March to the middle of December and is one of the coolest tourist attractions in Estes Park, Colorado for those who want to really get back to nature’s roots.

Camping options are available all around Hermit Park Open Space, with cabin rentals, a large campground, and space for RVs and tents alike.

There are also lots of trails to explore that are ideal for biking, hiking, and even horseback riding.

Pavilions for picnics, fire pits for cooking, and open areas of wetland and forest make for an exciting and invigorating vacation.

Do note that camping permits are required if you plan to set up a tent or RV!

Address: 17 Hermit Park Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

Visiting Colorado Springs and Denver? If you do plan the trip, here are some cool things to do in Colorado Springs and some of the best things to do in Denver !

22. Seven Keys Lodge

Seven Keys Lodge

If your preferences for what to do on your vacations lean towards the bizarre or unique, then you’ll have a lot of fun at the Seven Keys Lodge of Colorado!

Once known as the Baldpate Inn, it is the site of the world’s biggest collection of keys, boasting over 20,000 of them in total.

The building itself is a small little bed and breakfast, with the walls and ceilings holding the keys in abundance – and the collection continues to grow with donations every year!

Among the incredible keys hanging at the Seven Keys Lodge are those to the White House, Adolf Hitler’s bunker, banks that have been robbed, Frankenstein’s Castle, the wine cellar of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the Pentagon, a piano, Westminster Abbey, Hollywood actor dressing rooms, and a monastery in Peru.

Keys come from all across the planet and are organized by location.

The keys at Seven Keys Lodge have been building up since World War II.

The inspiration for the birth of the collection was Seven Keys to Baldpate, a mystery novel.

The inn opened in 1917 and is still going strong.

If you have a key you no longer need, you can donate it to be added to the collection!

Address: 4900 CO-7, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

23. Enos Mills Cabin Museum

Enos Mills Cabin Museum

The Enos Mills Cabin Museum is a celebration of the titular Enos Mills, a man famously known as the Father of Rocky Mountain National Park.

He was a photographer, adventurer, guide for the mountains, lecturer, innkeeper, and author, and his passions lay in the preservation and conservation of land against industrialization and development.

For years, Mills petitioned the United States Congress and sought to educate them – and the rest of the public – on the importance of preserving natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, and scenery.

He built a cabin and homestead for himself in 1885, and it is now preserved by his daughter and son-in-law, Enda and Robert Kiley, who turned it into a unique location known as the Enos Mills Cabin Museum.

The Enos Mills Cabin Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, lifestyle, and culture of settlers in Colorado.

Located on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Estes Park.

It operates by appointment, so call in advance if you plan to visit!

Address: 6760 CO-7, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

24. Purple Mountain Taffy Company

Purple Mountain Taffy Company

If you’re looking for points of interest in Colorado related to food for your sweet tooth, then the Purple Mountain Taffy Company will be right up your alley.

The candy business serves up unique and delicious caramels, salt water taffy, and other sweet treats to customers from all over the world right from their little Estes Park location!

The Purple Mountain Taffy Company has been in business for more than 50 years, utilizing the charm of family recipes and high-quality ingredients to provide delicious bites.

Their caramels range from classic flavors like chocolate salted caramel to more adventurous but still timeless options like raspberry caramel and caramel apple, and they also sell Bret bars and fudge.

You also shouldn’t forget about their famous taffy, which comes in a whole host of different options.

You’ll find choices like butterscotch, pecan, cherry cola, huckleberry, blue raspberry, sour watermelon, pina colada, chocolate vanilla swirl, birthday cake, bing cherry vanilla, and much, much more.

Basically, there’s a flavor here for pretty much any set of tastebuds!

Address: 121 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States

25. Riverwalk

The Riverwalk of Estes Park is a scenic location famous with tourists for shopping and recreational use.

Busiest in summer but vibrant and lively throughout the year, it’s notably less crowded than the rest of the downtown area and is a great way to get away from the bustle.

The paved path of the Riverwalk runs alongside the path of Elkhorn avenue and the flow of the Fall River.

It’s lined with greenery and manicured flora that make it incredibly tranquil and relaxing.

Better yet, it doesn’t completely take you away from the charm of local businesses, as many shops have entrances facing the Riverwalk so you can explore.

As you dine at a quaint patio restaurant that overlooks the river, you’ll understand why the Riverwalk is one of the best Estes Park attractions!

Visiting other areas of Colorado? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Fort Collins  & some of the fun things to do in Durango ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Estes Park

This town’s natural beauty, the wealth of flora and fauna, and deeply woven history make it a delightful vacation spot, whether you’re seeking summer adventure or winter experiences.

This list of things to do in Estes Park will help you decide on all your must-do things to see!

Happy travels.

Estes Park   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Robert Morrissey | EyeEm

10 Best Things To Do in Estes Park

Updated Feb. 21, 2023

Estes Park's position in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains makes the Colorado town a paradise for adventurers. Rocky Mountain National Park stands out as the most popular outdoor attraction in the area, but visitors can also take in the

• All Things To Do

Rocky Mountain National Park Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses more than 250,000 acres and boasts 124 named mountain peaks. Subsequently, the massive park draws visitors interested in camping, biking, fishing and horseback riding , among other outdoor activities. If you're not an outdoorsy type, consider a scenic drive or a picnic to make the most of the outstanding views. Winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding keep a flow of travelers visiting the park during the chillier months. The park's wildlife, which includes elk, bighorn sheep and moose, roam the verdant forests and glittering lakes, guaranteeing that every trip to Rocky Mountain National Park will be memorable.

One of the park's biggest draws is its collection of approximately 355 miles of trails. Avid hikers recommend the difficult Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail, which runs about 10 miles and becomes more rewarding as you climb upward. For a more manageable hike, visitors suggest the roughly 3-mile Emerald Lake Trail . If you choose to tackle this trail, plan to arrive early in the day to beat the daily crowds that descend on the trail. For first-time hikers, travelers recommend the 2-mile Dream Lake Trail, a scenic out-and-back route that will prove manageable for most fitness levels.

Stanley Hotel Stanley Hotel

Not only is the grand Stanley Hotel a member of the Historic Hotels of America, but it's also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel opened in 1909 to provide a luxurious retreat for East Coast vacationers making a pilgrimage to Estes Park. Electric lights, telephones and automobiles all welcomed visitors, and the surrounding town developed rapidly in the Stanley Hotel's wake. Aside from its historic accolades, the property boasts another claim to fame as the inspiration behind the Overlook Hotel in Stephen King's "The Shining." As if its association with the horror novel weren't enough, the hotel also touts its own history of paranormal activity . To learn more, visitors can take one of two tours – a daytime tour that focuses more on pop culture and a night tour that concentrates on the property's ghost lore.

Whether day or night, past travelers said the tour guides are fantastic storytellers and that they impart a bevy of interesting tidbits.

Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue free

More than 200 storefronts line these two thoroughfares of downtown Estes Park. Following the Lawn Lake Dam's failure in 1982, much of downtown Estes Park was damaged by sudden flooding. Subsequently, the downtown area now showcases a mix of modern architecture alongside rustic, timber-framed buildings harkening back to the homesteading era. Many of the shopping, eating, and recreational businesses in Estes Park are independently owned, so you can happily shop knowing that every piece of candy, taste of ice cream or souvenir can't be found anywhere else. Art lovers will be particularly impressed by the galleries and studios that line Estes Park's streets.

Though the competition between candy stores is intense, past travelers insisted that you grab fudge or a candy apple from Laura's Fine Candies, which is located on Elkhorn Avenue. Mountain Blown Glass also proves a must-visit storefront, according to past visitors, thanks to its gallery of beautiful pieces and impressive live demonstrations, which are free to watch.

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Estes Park Museum Estes Park Museum free

History enthusiasts of every ilk will find something of interest at this museum. The Estes Park Museum works to catalog the surprising expansive historical records of Estes Park. The museum houses about 30,000 objects, including historic photographs and postcards, as well as furniture, tools and more. The impressive collection also features a real 1909 model EX Stanley Steamer Runabout, a steam-powered car. Historic structures preserved by the museum include a cabin from 1908 and the National Park Headquarters Building, which served as the center of affairs for Rocky Mountain National Park from 1915 to 1923.

To start your visit, you'll view a historical video that provides an overview of Estes Park – a highlight for recent visitors. Past travelers appreciated the informative and interesting displays, which highlight specific aspects of the area's history. The museum also houses a gift shop, which past travelers described as somewhat small, for anyone looking for a keepsake from their vacation.

Lake Estes Marina Lake Estes Marina

Whether you want to sunbathe on a pontoon or cast a line from a small boat or the shoreline, the Lake Estes Marina offers something for everyone. Those who'd prefer to stay on dry land can take advantage of bike rentals for $9 an hour or pedal cars for $23 an hour to traverse the paved, 3.75-mile loop around the lake, named the Lake Estes Trail.

Past visitors enjoyed cruising around the lake on their rented pontoon boats, which provide shade on particularly sunny days. The also appreciated that the marina sells fishing licenses and rents fishing equipment for $2 an hour or $10 a day. The most common disappointment amongst past travelers is the lake's size, which they say doesn't compare to the massive lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park .

Estes Park Whitewater Rafting Estes Park Whitewater Rafting

During Colorado's warm months, whitewater rafting opportunities abound as the state's rivers swell with snowmelt. Travelers have their choice of rafting companies in nearby Fort Collins; though, only Rapid Transit Rafting is actually located in Estes Park. In addition to a selection of companies, rafting difficulty varies by river and launch point, meaning that whitewater rafting near Estes Park remains exciting regardless of your level of experience.

Rapid Transit Rafting earns excellent reviews from past visitors, and some even go as far as to declare the experience the highlight of their trip to Colorado. Past travelers praised all the employees, from the guides to the bus drivers. Others were also impressed with the scenery, which can occasionally include soaring bald eagles. One recurring tip from recent travelers: Pack a change of clothes, as whatever you wear rafting is sure to get soaked.

Kent Mountain Adventure Center Kent Mountain Adventure Center

Everyone from outdoors-loving children to experienced mountaineers will appreciate the programs offered by Kent Mountain Adventure Center. The adventure center specializes in rock climbing and offers six different trips that vary in length and difficulty, one combination of rock scrambling and climbing trip, and two two-day courses. They also offer cliff camping trips, or cliff picnic trips if you don't think you could sleep while dangling off a rock wall. For the vertically averse, Kent Mountain Adventure Center also offers a handful of guided hikes. Meanwhile, kids can take advantage of the variety of youth camps provided by the adventure center. Winter ushers in a whole new set of outdoor options, which include cross-country skiing, ice climbing and more. All of the adventure center's programs operate in or around Rocky Mountain National Park .                                                                                

Past travelers were impressed by the selection of rock climbing options, which make it easy to tailor the excursion to any group's or individual's comfort. Recent climbers also praised the adventure center's guides, saying that they felt safe and secure climbing with them. Thrill-seekers recommended the "cliffnic" option, where climbers can enjoy a picnic on a small platform on the side of a cliff.

Rock Cut Brewing Company Rock Cut Brewing Company

Read More »

4WD Panoramic Peak Photo Tour in Estes Park

(27 reviews)

from $ 136.54

Rocky Mountain National Park Green Jeep Tour: Trailridge Safari

(217 reviews)

from $ 109.79

Rocky Mountain Full Day Small Group Tour

(5 reviews)

from $ 299.00

Estes Park Farmers Market/Artisans Market Estes Park Farmers Market/Artisans Market free

Trail Ridge Road Trail Ridge Road

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Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

Fantastic Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado

• May 12, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by foxintheforest

As a world-famous destination, every year millions of people enjoy the many things to do in Estes Park year-round. From ice skating in winter to dreamy mountain hikes, there are a lot of Estes Park activities to get excited about.

Estes Park, Colorado is home to the famous Rocky Mountain National Park – the 4th busiest national park in the US. Of course, Rocky is the highlight of virtually any weekend in Estes Park, but there are plenty of other incredible activities to enjoy in the area.

As a long-time Colorado local (over 13 years), I’ve been to Estes countless times. So if you’re looking to enjoy the best of Estes like a local, not a tourist, then you’re in the right place.

About this Guide of Things to Do in Estes Park

Inside this local’s guide to Estes Park activities you’ll find:

• Local info about visiting Estes Park, Colorado including top attractions, free activities, and how long to visit.
• The best time to visit Estes Park
• How to beat the crowds
• An in-depth list at the best things to do in Estes Park
• Top things to do near Estes Park
• What to do for free in Estes
• Additional Colorado travel resources

What is Estes Park Known For?

Most people visit Estes in order to see the absolutely stunning Rocky Mountain National Park . As one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Rocky is chock full of incredible mountain views, ample wildlife, and plenty of outdoor recreation activities for all abilities.

As a home base for exploring the park, Estes Park is host to a variety of incredible activities that exist beyond Rocky’s boundaries. It’s a truly quintessential top place to visit in Colorado and no Colorado road trip itinerary is complete without some time in Estes.

Is Estes Park Worth Visiting?

In a nutshell, yes, but (and this is a big but) Estes Park is exceptionally crowded in the summer and early fall. In fact, many people might not want to visit Estes in the summer if they are trying to avoid crowds.

However, the crowds are here for a reason. Estes is home to some of the best hikes in Colorado , amazing scenery, top camping in Colorado , and has a fun mountain town vibe. The key to having a great time in Estes is to plan ahead and know when the town gets super-busy.

Overall, Estes Park is certainly worth a visit, but just be aware that afternoon crowds on weekends are very real.

When is the Best Time to Visit Estes Park?

Estes Park is worth a visit year-round and each season offers something a little different.

Summer is known to have the mildest weather. Not to mention the wildflowers bloom from July through August. Just know that the snow doesn’t melt at the higher elevations until around mid-June and this is the most crowded time to visit.

Early fall is another gorgeous time and a top pick for the best time to visit Estes Park . September (and occasionally early October) mark when the leaves change in Colorado and Estes puts on a full display. It’s another popular time, especially with locals on weekends, so be prepared for heavy traffic.

Late fall is quite nice if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. As is spring. Springs will be quite snowy and many of the best Estes Park hikes may still have dangerous avalanche risks.

Winter is the season of snow. Estes gets just a little sleepier this time of year, but with plenty of amazing things to do in Estes during the winter, you’ll still find ample winter fun in this part of Colorado in December .

How Many Days Should I Spend at Estes Park, Colorado?

How many days you choose to spend in Estes Park largely depends on how many days you want to spend exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. With just one day in Estes, you can totally get a feel for this lively mountain town, but you won’t be able to see too much.

A weekend to 4 days in Estes will allow you to enjoy the park and perhaps one or two extra activities outside of Rocky.

For extended stays, you can certainly get your fill with a week in Estes Park, but if you’re short on time and want to spend more time exploring other parts of Colorado, 2 days is enough.

Beating the Crowds at Estes Park

As one of the top national parks in the US, Rocky Mountain National Park draws over 4 million visitors a year – most of them being in summer.

If you’re visiting Estes in summer, you’ll want to do some planning to beat the crowds. Here are a few quick ways to avoid the biggest hustles.

Avoid free admission days at Rocky. No matter the time of year, Estes gets over-run during these times.

Don’t visit over holidays or weekends. Prices skyrocket and so do the crowds.

Plan to be up before the sun and eat meals at off-hours . This will help you manage the big lunch and dinner crushes downtown, and be able to find some solitude at some of the best things to do in Estes Park.

Local Tip: You have a better chance of spotting wildlife early in the morning, right around dawn.

Visit during the off-season. Late fall and spring, March in Colorado , are not as busy at Estes Park.

Do the most popular activities first thing in the morning. Playing in the mountains is all about getting up early. So plan popular activities before most people are even out of bed.

The Best Things to Do in Estes Park

Estes Park is an amazing weekend getaway from Denver , and you might even need more than a weekend to explore all the Estes Park activities that this mountain town has to offer.

Things to Do in Estes Park

When it comes to things to do in Estes Park, Colorado, the town itself has plenty on offer. All of these activities are accessed directly from town.

Get Spooky at the Stanley Hotel

As the infamous inspiration of the creepy movie “The Shining,” the Stanley Hotel is known as a place full of paranormal activity. The hotel offers guided tours of its history – you can take the daytime tour if you’re afraid of ghosts or go on the night tour to seek out the spirits roaming the halls.

• Time: 1 hour
• Cost: $24-28 for a guided tour

Get a Bird’s-eye View From the Aerial Tramway

For a unique thing to do in Colorado, enjoy a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway and get a panoramic view from the top of Prospect Mountain.

The tramway was opened in 1955 and designed with a free span for a smooth 5-minute ride uphill. At the top, you can take a short hike or visit the gift shop and snack bar before heading back down.

• Time : 1 hour
• Cost: $16/person

Hike to the Peak of Prospect Mountain

You can also get to the peak of Prospect Mountain under your own power by hiking up the trail.

This trail used to be on private property, but the town of Estes Park purchased the land to create the Thumb Open Space and maintain the trail. Rock climbers can also enjoy several small crags with a variety of routes.

• Time: 1-2 hours

Cheers with a Local Beer

Check out one of the breweries in Estes Park for a pint or flight of local beers. Estes Park Brewery, Rock Cut Brewery, and Lumpy Ridge Brewery all offer brews sure to please any beer connoisseur.

If you’re hungry, Estes Park Brewery also offers great pub grub.

• Time: A few hours
• Cost: Varies

Go on a Shopping Spree

Downtown Estes Park is a great Colorado mountain town if you love to shop. Get a unique gift or souvenir at Earthwood Artisans or upgrade your outdoor adventure gear at Estes Park Mountain Shop.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in one of the hundreds of shops in downtown Estes Park.

• Cost: Varies, but window shopping is free

Watch a Glass Blowing Demonstration

If you’re intrigued by the art of glass blowing, you can watch artists in action at the Mountain Blown Glass gallery in Estes Park.

Demonstrations are not on a set schedule, but if you visit the gallery at the right time, you’ll get to see some molten glass magic.

• Time: 30 min-1 hour

Float on a Boat in the Marina

Estes Park Marina is the place to be for water lovers in the summer. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, or even a pontoon boat, or just splash around and the wading beach.

The marina is also a mecca for fishing if you want to bait your hook and see what you can catch.

• Time: Half day to full day

See Stars at the Observatory

If trying to pick out constellations while sitting around a campfire isn’t enough for you, head to the Estes Park Observatory.

Here you can stargaze to your heart’s content through the powerful, state-of-the-art telescope.

Note: Viewings are currently on a limited schedule due to Covid, but you can request a private group viewing on certain available days.

• Time : A couple hours
• Cost : Free

Things to Do Near Estes Park

When you’ve had your fill of town, it’s time to scope out the real reason you visited Estes Park – all of that epic mountain scenery.

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

As the crown jewel of nearby Estes, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see on your list. In fact, many of the things to do near Estes Park can be found within the park’s boundaries.

You can easily spend a day in Rocky Mountain National Park and just scratch the surface.

A few days will let you really dive deep into the park’s top hiking areas, camping, scenic drives, and more.

Local Tip: You’ll need a timed entry permit to visit the park. These permits fill up almost immediately when they are released, especially on weekends. The Bear Lake Corridor requires a special permit or you’ll have to take the shuttle.

• Time: Full day or more
• Cost : $25 park entrance fee (or National Parks Pass) Plus a $2 reservation fee for advanced timed entry (required May through October)

See Stunning Alpine Lakes

One of the top Estes Park attractions is to hike to an alpine lake. In fact, many of the top lake hikes in Colorado can be found near Estes Park.

We’ll dive into a few specific lakes in just a second, but you don’t want to miss these dreamy alpine landscapes.

Almost all lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park require a hike to get to, but a few you can check out almost directly from your car include:

• Sprague Lake

A few notable lakes in Rocky Mountain include:

• Dream and Emerald Lake

Local Tip: Beat the crowds by planning a sunrise hike.

• Cost: $25 park entrance fee (or National Parks Pass)

Get Off-Road in a 4×4

Adventure off the beaten path on a 4X4 tour of Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park. Wildside 4×4 Tours offers lots of year-round opportunities for off-road rides and scenic photo tours, including one that ends with roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over a roaring campfire.

• Time: Half day

Splash Around on a White Water Raft

Did you know that some of the top white water rafting in Colorado can be found right near Estes? Both the Poudre and Colorado Rivers give you the ultimate access to some of the best rapids in the state.

Tours cater to all abilities, from mellow floats to bumpy class 3 rapid adventures. The season for white water rafting in Colorado typically runs from late May until July, so plan accordingly.

• Time : Half day to full day depending on the excursion
• Cost: varies

Hike to Emerald Lake for Sunrise

Arguably one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park (and one of the most beautiful hikes in the US), a sunrise hike to Emerald Lake needs to be on your Estes Park activitiy list.

This relatively gentle, 3.5-mile out-and-back hike passes by 4 total lakes – including the coveted Dream Lake

Wander through tranquil pine forests as you pass by Bear, Nymph, and Dream Lakes. Just remember, this is one of the most popular hikes in the country, so start well before dawn if you want solitude.

Local Tip: To really avoid the crowds, hike all the way to Emerald Lake, watch the sunrise, then stop at the other lakes on the way back.

• Time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Navigate an Aerial Obstacle Course

Choose your own adventure in the sky at the Open Air Adventure Course. Make your way through the ropes course at 11-21 feet in the air and tackle the fun obstacles that test your balance and strength.

From some of the top Colorado via Ferrata routes to high-flying zip lines, there’s plenty for daredevils of all ages.

• Cost: $39/person

Hike a Waterfall to the Epic Sky Pond

One of the top things to do in Estes Park for avid hikers is to visit the dramatic Sky Pond . Starting from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, make your way up through the mountains, past famous landmarks like the Loch until you reach the Sky Pond Trail.

From here, the going gets steep as you navigate a slippery waterfall to the Lake of Glass. Watch your footing and be prepared to use your hands along this challenging hike.

Keep going until you reach a dramatic mountain basin featuring rocky fingers that pierce the sky.

• Time: 5 hours

Stand on the Summit of Longs Peak

Alright, so this is a serious endeavor that only avid mountain hikers with scrambling experience should attempt. Longs Peak is the only Colorado 14er found near Estes Park.

Located in its own area of Rocky Mountain National Park, Longs Peak is one of the most sought-after Colorado 14ers near Denver .

The easiest way to the top is a grueling 15-mile hike with over 5,000 feet of elevation gain that requires rock scrambling skills, a helmet, and some serious mountain knowledge. It’s an all-day affair that isn’t for the faint of heart.

Newbie alpine trad climbers should check out the Cables Route on Longs Peak . This simple 2-pitch rock climb delivers breathtaking views and shaves a few miles off of the tedious journey to the summit.

Local Tip: 14ers are dangerous, so be prepared to climb a 14er. Start by 12 am in order to get a parking spot and avoid pesky afternoon thunderstorms.

Time: Full day Cost: $25 park entrance fee (or National Parks Pass). Yes, you need a timed entry permit for this area.

Climb Some Epic Rocks

Estes Park is a mecca for Colorado rock climbing with epic climbs abounding in Rocky Mountain National Park and Lumpy Ridge.

In particular, trad and alpine climbers will want to rope up on routes like Kor’s Flake on Sundance Buttress, the South Face of the Petit Grepon, and the Casual Route on Longs Peak.

• Time: Full day

Take the Scenic Route on Trail Ridge Road

Slow down and take your time driving through the majestic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park on one of the best scenic drives near Denver , Trail Ridge Road .

This drive traverses the park from Estes Park to Grand Lake, with many pullouts and overlooks along the way, like Rainbow Curve Overlook .

Note: Trail Ridge Road closes in the winter, so check the conditions before you go.

• Time: 1.5 hours to half day

Tour the Front Range Foothills on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

Another one of the awesome things to do near Estes Park is taking a tour of the Front Range on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

This scenic drive winds from Estes Park all the way down through Clear Creek Canyon near Golden west of Denver. Along the way, you’ll see lots of aspens, making a perfect Colorado fall drive for leaf peepers.

• Time: 3 hours

Keep An Eye Out for Elk

Many elk make Estes Park their home, and if you’re lucky and patient, you might get a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

Meadows like Moraine Park or Upper Beaver Meadows are where you’re most likely to encounter the elk, and rutting (or mating) season in the fall is the best time to see elk – and hear them bugle.

Note: Elk are large, potentially dangerous animals, and you never want to get too close. Always stay at least 75 feet away. If the elk notice you, that means you’re too close!

• Cost : Free or $25 entrance fee for RMNP

Find the Wildflowers in Bloom

One of the most wonderful things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer is to wander through the wildflowers.

Gem Lake and Dream/Emerald Lake are a couple of the best wildflower hikes in Colorado where you can marvel at the rainbows of colorful blooms. Or drive the Trail Ridge Road for color displays right from your car.

• Time: A few hours to a full day

Cast a Line Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is a long-time Colorado pastime and just outside of Estes Park, you can learn the basics. Opt to go for a guided day out, or bring your own gear and cast a line (just be sure to get your Colorado fishing license ).

Most places in the area are catch and release, but there are a few spots where you can keep your catch and cook up some amazing rainbow trout for dinner.

• Time: half to full day
• Cost: Varies depending on the tour

Saddle Up for a Horseback Ride

As one of the classic things to do in Colorado , seeing the mountains on horseback is a must-do. All ages and experiences are welcome to enjoy the many horse-friendly trails near Estes.

Leading into gorgeous mountain valleys with dramatic vistas, this is the way to experience the mountains.

• Time: half day to full day
• Cost: Varies depending on tour

Spend the Night in a Tent

Camping near Estes Park offers you a chance to sleep under the stars in this stunning landscape. You can opt to stay in private campgrounds right near Estes Park or reserve one of the coveted campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Time: As long as you would like
• Cost: varies depending on style of campsite

Snap a Gem at the Perfect Photography Hot Spots Near Estes Park

The Rockys are famous for their jaw-dropping scenery and one of the best things to do in Estes Park is bust out your camera. Several amazing places exist to snap iconic photos a few favorites include:

• Lumpy Ridge
• Trail Ridge Road
• Many Parks Curve Overlook
• Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
• Time: varies
• Cost : free unless you’re in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Things to Do in Estes Park in Winter

When it comes to Colorado in winter, a trip to Estes is always a treat. This list of the top things to do in Estes Park in winter highlights some must-see attractions.

Play in the Snow on Snowshoes

Just because it starts snowing doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the many hiking trails in Estes Park. Snowshoeing is a great winter activity in Colorado besides skiing , and one of the very best things to do in Estes Park in winter is strap on a pair of snowshoes and explore.

Rocky Mountain National Park is an awesome place to snowshoe in Colorado . The trail to Dream and Emerald Lake is a great little snowshoe adventure, and Loch Vale is a good trail for more of a challenge.

You can rent snowshoes in town at Estes Park Mountain Shop or even go on a guided snowshoe tour.

Local Tip: Psst, some of the best winter hikes in Colorado can be found near Estes, just be sure to avoid trails that have avalanche risks.

Time: A few hours to a full day Cost: Varies

Slide Down a Sledding Hill

Kids and kids-at-heart will have a blast at the Hidden Valley Snow Park. One of the coolest things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter is to play on this popular sledding hill.

You can bring your own sled or rent a sled or tube from one of the outdoor outfitters in Estes Park.

• Time: A few hours to a half-day

Glide Around on Ice Skates

Skaters will find a couple of Colorado ice skating options in Estes Park. You can enjoy a few laps around Dorsey Lake at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, or, if the conditions are right, you can bring your skates into RMNP to try to skate on an alpine lake.

Hermit Park Open Space

Spread out across 1300 acres of land, the Hermit Park Open Space is open from March through the December and sits in between 7,800 and 9,00 feet of elevation.

It’s a great place to enjoy the natural beauty that Estes Park is known for since it is a great place to go horseback riding, camping, biking, hiking, and more.

If you want, you can even spend the night and rent a log cabin. Alternatively, try camping out with either a tent or a RV.

You can also make use of local facilities that include a picnic area, fire pits, wetlands, and vast forests.

Estes Park Museum

Easily one of the best things to do in Estes Park, the Estes Park Museum is the perfect spot for anyone looking to learn about the cultural and history of this amazing town.

In fact, this charming little museum showcases a total of 30,000 different specimens that have been on display here for well over fifty years.

So, be sure to stop by and explore a wide variety of historic photos, furniture, tools, and postcards.

In particular, the EX Stanley Steamer Runabout – car from 1909 that runs on steam – is a real highlight of any visit.

Afterward, explore several historic buildings like the Cobb-Macdonald Cabin from 1908 and the former Rocky Mountain National Park center of affairs.

Why is Estes Park So Popular?

Estes Park is so popular because it is well-located near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Additionally, it is an iconic Colorado mountain town that is a great place to go on outdoor adventure, catch local wildlife and enjoy stunning alpine beauty.

Are there Hot Springs in Estes Park?

No, there are no hot springs in Estes Park. In fact, the closest hot spring to Estes Park is Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs and that is over two hours away.

How do you Spend the Day in Estes Park?

If you want to spend the perfect day in Estes Park you can try dinning/shopping along Elkhorn Avenue, going on a ghost tour of the haunted Stanley Hotel, and exploring Estes Lake.

You can also try going on a hike to Kruger Rock in Hermit Park Open Space for stunning views of the area.

What is There to Do in Estes Park for Free?

Alright, so I’ll admit it, Estes Park isn’t the cheapest place in Colorado. But if you’re looking for budget-friendly Colorado activities – Estes Park can deliver. A few free activities include:

• Hikes outside of Rocky Mountain National Park
• Window shopping in Estes Park
• Enjoying a picnic near Lake Estes
• Going for a scenic drive
• Attending Elk Fest in the fall (free)

Additional Local Colorado Travel Resources

Looking to explore Colorado like a local, not a tourist? Then I’ve got you covered with these local resources:

• Spend the Ultimate 4-Days in Colorado
• The Local’s Guide to Visiting Colorado
• Incredible Places to Visit in Colorado

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. She's been widely-published in the outdoors and even appeared on National TV talking about how to level up your outdoor skills and discover hidden hikes in the American West.

20 of the Best Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 3, 2024

Looking for all the best attractions in Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park? Our guide to all the best things to do in Estes Park is all you need!

If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the pride of Colorado , the Rocky Mountains, you’ve stumbled upon the right place. Welcome to our guide on things to do in Estes Park, a charming mountain town that’s not only the gateway to the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park but also boasts a host of delightful activities and attractions that will make your trip one for the books.

Nestled among the towering peaks, Estes Park is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike. We’ll dive into the awe-inspiring landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can hike to your heart’s content, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and soak up some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever encounter.

And did I mention the Stanley Hotel? It’s not only a historic gem but also has a dash of spookiness for those who love a good ghost story. Plus, we’ll take you to the stars (literally) at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory, where you can peer into the cosmos and discover the mysteries of the night sky.

So, grab your hiking boots and your sense of wonder, and let’s dive headfirst into the adventure-packed world of Estes Park!

Table of Contents

1. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

2. stroll along estes park riverwalk, 3. keep an eye out for wildlife, 4. get an adrenaline kick at kent mountain adventure center, 5. ride the estes park aerial tramway, 6. enjoy the lake estes marina, 7. take a scenic drive on the peak-to-peak scenic byway, 8. go hiking and backpacking, 9. learn more history at estes park museum, 10. explore the open air adventure park, 11. go horseback riding, 12. get out whitewater rafting, 13. visit the purple mountain taffy company, 14. walk through downtown estes park, 15. sample some wine at estes park wine tasting, 16. visit the stanley hotel (from “the shining”), 17. explore estes park memorial observatory, 18. head out on some scenic drives, 19. enjoy the winter sports, 20. discover history at macgregor ranch museum, high-end luxury hotel: the estes park resort, mid-range family accommodation: the ridgeline hotel estes park, budget hostel/hotel: discovery lodge, wrapping up, the best things to do in estes park.

These are 20 of the best things to do in Estes Park to add to your travel itinerary!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park is a must for any traveler visiting Estes Park Co. This iconic national park boasts a plethora of outdoor adventures and stunning vistas.

Hiking enthusiasts can embark on unforgettable trails like the challenging Longs Peak or the family-friendly Bear Lake Loop, offering a range of hiking experiences suitable for all levels.

Additionally, fly fishing enthusiasts will find their paradise in the pristine waters of the park, where they can cast their lines in the numerous streams and lakes, seeking to hook the native trout species that thrive in these high-altitude waters.

Whether you’re hiking to mountain summits or angling in the clear alpine lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park promises an immersive and awe-inspiring wilderness experience in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic walk, a family outing, or a serene escape into nature, the Estes Park Riverwalk provides a charming and accessible way to connect with the natural beauty that surrounds this mountain community.

The Estes Park Riverwalk is a serene and picturesque attraction that ranks among the top things to do in Estes Park Colorado. This delightful path meanders alongside the tranquil waters of the Big Thompson River, offering a scenic escape in the heart of the town.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Riverwalk’s well-maintained trails, taking in the stunning mountain views, lush greenery, and the soothing sound of flowing water. Benches and picnic spots along the way invite you to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Wildlife viewing is a quintessential part of the Estes Park Colorado experience and ranks among the top things to do in the area. The pristine natural surroundings of Estes Park and its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park make it an ideal habitat for a diverse array of wildlife.

While exploring the region’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and open spaces, you’re likely to encounter a variety of animals, including elk, deer, moose, and numerous bird species. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting eagles, hawks, and a variety of songbirds in the area.

For wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Estes Park offers ample opportunities to connect with the natural world and witness the majesty of its resident creatures in their native habitats.

The Kent Mountain Adventure Center in Estes Park Co is an adrenaline junkie’s dream and one of the most exciting things to do in the area. Nestled within the stunning Rocky Mountains, this adventure center offers a wide range of outdoor activities and guided adventures that cater to thrill-seekers of all levels.

From rock climbing and rappelling on rugged cliffs to exhilarating guided hiking excursions through breathtaking alpine terrain, the center provides the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and experience the natural wonders of Estes Park.

With experienced guides and top-notch equipment, the Kent Mountain Adventure Center ensures that safety and excitement go hand in hand, making it an excellent destination for those looking to push their limits and create lasting memories in the heart of the Rockies.

Read Next: Be sure to read about other great places to visit in Colorado .

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is a fantastic addition to the list of things to do in Estes Park, offering visitors a memorable and breathtaking experience. This tramway ride provides panoramic views of Estes Park, its charming downtown, and the surrounding Rocky Mountains, making it an excellent way to appreciate the town’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

As you ascend to the summit of Prospect Mountain, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas that include Longs Peak and the Mummy Range. At the top, there’s a gift shop and an observation deck where you can soak in the scenery and capture incredible photos.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic adventure, a romantic outing, or just a chance to take in the picturesque landscapes of Estes Park Co, the Aerial Tramway promises a memorable experience high above the town.

The Lake Estes Marina , nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Estes Park, offers a diverse array of recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts. As you venture to this tranquil oasis, you can indulge in the art of fly fishing, casting lines into the serene waters in pursuit of the local trout population.

Alternatively, you might opt for a kayaking adventure, paddling along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Estes while soaking in breathtaking mountain vistas.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Estes Lake trail encircles the lake, providing a gentle path where you can take in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness, all while appreciating the serene ambiance that makes Lake Estes a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility alike.

Read Next: Consider visiting Estes Park as a day trip from Denver .

The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a captivating journey that ranks among the top things to do in Estes Park Co. This picturesque byway offers travelers a mesmerizing drive through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, showcasing the region’s natural beauty, including breathtaking vistas, pristine forests, and charming mountain towns.

Starting in Estes Park and winding its way through the mountains, this route provides opportunities for scenic stops and outdoor adventures, such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and picnicking.

As you traverse the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, you’ll be immersed in the rugged grandeur of the Rockies, making it a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to savor the awe-inspiring landscapes that define this part of Colorado.

Hiking in Estes Park is a quintessential experience, offering outdoor enthusiasts an array of trails that cater to all skill levels. Some of the best hikes in the area include the iconic Bear Lake Trail, which provides easy access to a stunning alpine lake and serves as a gateway to more challenging routes like the Flattop Mountain Trail.

The Dream Lake Trail is another favorite, offering a relatively short yet visually rewarding hike with striking views of Hallett Peak and the serene Dream Lake. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Longs Peak Trail takes hikers to the summit of one of Colorado’s famed “Fourteeners,” although it demands proper preparation and acclimatization.

With options ranging from gentle nature walks to challenging high-altitude ascents, Estes Park’s hiking opportunities cater to everyone, ensuring that every visitor can immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Rocky Mountains.

The Estes Park Museum is a treasure trove of history and culture that should be on every visitor’s list of things to do in Estes Park Co. Situated in the heart of town, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the past, showcasing the rich heritage and evolution of the Estes Park area and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Inside, you’ll discover engaging exhibits, historical artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the lives of early settlers, Native American tribes, and the natural wonders of the region.

Whether you’re interested in the history of mountaineering, the tales of the first homesteaders, or the geological wonders of the Rockies, the Estes Park Museum provides an enlightening and educational experience that deepens your appreciation for the cultural and natural heritage of this stunning mountain community.

The Open Air Adventure Park is an exhilarating addition to the list of things to do in Estes Park, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience in the heart of the Rockies. Nestled amidst the stunning mountain scenery, this adventure park boasts a variety of thrilling activities, including high ropes courses, ziplining, and an aerial obstacle course.

Whether you’re seeking an exciting challenge or a family-friendly adventure, the Open Air Adventure Park has something for everyone, with courses designed to accommodate different skill levels.

It’s an excellent opportunity to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes while pushing your boundaries and creating unforgettable memories in Estes Park’s great outdoors.

Exploring the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Estes Park becomes even more magical with a visit to Jackson Stables. Offering a unique outdoor adventure, Jackson Stables provides guided horseback rides through the picturesque mountain trails of Rocky Mountain National Park.

It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Rockies, as you ride gentle, well-trained horses while taking in the majestic scenery. The experienced guides at Jackson Stables lead riders of all levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, the chance to meander through the pristine wilderness on horseback is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with the natural wonders of Estes Park in a truly special way.

Read Next: Consider visiting Estes Park as part of an epic Colorado road trip !

Whitewater rafting in Estes Park is one of the most exhilarating things to do in the area, offering adventurers an unforgettable journey through the rushing waters of the Cache la Poudre River or the Arkansas River.

Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a beginner, local outfitters provide guided trips suitable for all levels of experience. These thrilling excursions take you through stunning canyons and past rugged landscapes and offer a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Estes Park’s surroundings.

With heart-pounding rapids and moments of calm to take in the breathtaking scenery, whitewater rafting provides an adrenaline rush and a profound connection with the great outdoors, making it an essential adventure for those looking to combine excitement and natural wonder in their Estes Park visit.

The Purple Mountain Taffy Company in Estes Park is a sweet haven for both tourists and locals alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown Estes Park, this charming confectionery shop tantalizes the senses with its delightful array of handcrafted taffy and other delectable candies.

Visitors can watch skilled artisans pull and twist the taffy on antique machinery, creating a nostalgic and interactive experience. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, including classics like saltwater taffy and inventive creations like huckleberry and caramel apple, it’s a perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth and take home a delicious souvenir.

The Purple Mountain Taffy Company’s old-fashioned charm and mouthwatering treats make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the culinary delights of Estes Park.

Downtown Estes Park, located along Elkhorn Avenue, is the vibrant heart of the town and a must-visit destination for travelers. It offers a charming blend of shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Strolling through this bustling area, you can explore a diverse range of offerings, from unique souvenir shops and art galleries to outdoor gear stores and sweet treat spots.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect mountain memento, indulging in delectable cuisine, or simply savoring an ice cream cone while admiring the scenic surroundings, Downtown Estes Park provides a delightful and quintessential mountain town experience that captures the spirit of the Rockies.

Wine tasting in Estes Park offers a delightful blend of local flavors and breathtaking mountain scenery. To make the most of your wine-tasting experience, it’s important to know that the region is known for producing high-altitude wines, with unique terroir influenced by the Rocky Mountains.

The best wineries to visit in Estes Park include Snowy Peaks Winery , which offers a diverse selection of Colorado-grown wines, including their popular fruit wines. Another standout is the Estes Park Winery , where you can savor award-winning wines while enjoying stunning mountain views from their tasting room.

Additionally, the local craft beverage scene is complemented by the Lumpy Ridge Brewing Company, which offers a selection of craft beers brewed on-site, creating a well-rounded libation experience.

Before visiting, it’s advisable to check the wineries’ opening hours and consider making reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure an enjoyable and memorable wine-tasting journey in the heart of the Rockies.

The Stanley Hotel , famously known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” is an iconic attraction in Estes Park Colorado, offering an array of captivating things to do. Stepping into this historic hotel is like taking a journey back in time, with its grand architecture and rich history.

Visitors can indulge in a guided tour of the hotel to learn about its intriguing past and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some supernatural activity, as the Stanley is renowned for its supposed haunted history. Dining at one of its restaurants, such as the Cascades or the Whiskey Bar & Lounge, is an elegant experience with delectable cuisine and spectacular mountain views.

For those looking to enjoy a unique evening, the Stanley also hosts events like live music performances and outdoor movie nights in the summer. The Stanley Hotel is an essential stop for anyone seeking to uncover the mystique of Estes Park and its rich cultural heritage.

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory beckons to stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts with its celestial wonders. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this observatory provides a unique opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the night sky.

With a range of telescopes and expert-led programs, visitors can peer deep into the cosmos, observing distant galaxies, planets, and constellations. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or a novice, the observatory offers a welcoming environment to explore the universe’s wonders, making it a captivating and educational experience for all ages.

The clear mountain air and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot to appreciate the beauty and vastness of the cosmos while gaining a deeper understanding of our place in the universe.

Scenic drives are among the most cherished things to do in Estes Park, as they offer travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the area’s breathtaking natural beauty while enjoying the comfort of their vehicles.

Iconic routes like Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake Road wind through Rocky Mountain National Park, treating visitors to sweeping vistas of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests. These drives showcase the region’s diverse landscapes, from high alpine tundra to lush valleys, making them perfect for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and capturing memorable photographs.

Whether you’re embarking on a leisurely drive or an adventurous road trip, Estes Park’s scenic byways promise an unforgettable journey through Colorado’s mountainous splendor.

In the winter months, Estes Park transforms into a snowy wonderland, and one of the most exhilarating things to do in the area is to embrace the season with a variety of winter sports activities.

Whether you’re an avid skier or a novice looking to try something new, Estes Park has something to offer. Nearby ski resorts such as Eldora Mountain Resort and Winter Park provide excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

If you prefer a more tranquil winter experience, try snowshoeing on the many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, or venture out for a day of ice skating in downtown Estes Park Co.

The crisp mountain air and snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque backdrop for winter adventures, making Estes Park a fantastic destination for those seeking both excitement and serenity during the colder months.

The MacGregor Ranch Museum in Estes Park offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich history of the region and its ranching heritage. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Rockies, this museum provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to step back in time and explore the preserved historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the MacGregor family and their life on the ranch.

With knowledgeable guides leading informative tours, visitors can gain valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of early settlers in the area, making it an educational and engaging destination for history enthusiasts and those curious about the pioneering spirit that shaped Estes Park.

The MacGregor Ranch Museum offers a unique and authentic window into the past, making it a must-visit attraction for those seeking to connect with the heritage of this picturesque mountain town.

Where to Stay in Estes Park, Colorado

These are our favorite picks for where to stay in Estes Park.

Located on the shores of Lake Estes, The Estes Park Resort offers a tranquil and upscale mountain retreat. The resort features well-appointed rooms and suites with lake or mountain views.

Guests can dine at the Waterfront Grille, relax by the lakeside fire pits, or take advantage of activities like kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake. The serene setting and modern amenities make it a luxurious escape in Estes Park.

The Ridgeline Hotel is a family-friendly mid-range option that provides comfortable and spacious accommodations. It offers a range of amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, hot tubs, and an on-site restaurant.

With a location close to downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s an excellent choice for families looking for convenience and value without sacrificing comfort.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Discovery Lodge offers affordable rooms without compromising on location or cleanliness. Situated near downtown Estes Park, it provides easy access to the town’s attractions and outdoor adventures.

While it may not offer the same level of luxury as higher-end options, it’s a practical choice for those looking to explore Estes Park on a budget.

As we wrap up our adventure through the best things to do in Estes Park, it’s impossible not to feel a deep appreciation for this mountain paradise. From the rugged beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park to the historic charm of the Stanley Hotel and the enchanting experiences of horseback riding through pristine wilderness, Estes Park has shown itself to be a true gem in the heart of Colorado’s Rockies.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a stargazing enthusiast, or someone simply seeking a tranquil escape into nature, Estes Park offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. It’s a place where you can reconnect with the wild, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and create memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

So, if you haven’t already, add Estes Park to your travel bucket list and discover the magic of this mountain town for yourself. It’s a destination that promises adventure, serenity, and an authentic taste of the great outdoors, leaving you with a longing to return for more.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Local’s Guide to the 22 Best Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado

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There are so many fun things to do in Estes Park, Colorado ! Whether you’re a Colorado native or a tourist visiting the state, Estes Park is most likely one of the places that you’ll be visiting. It’s commonly known as being the best home base for those exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and is truly a treat itself.

We are Denver locals and travel to Estes Park fairly often – though it is a bit touristy, it’s truly one of the most magical places in the Denver area.

With so many Estes Park activities available, it can be hard to choose exactly what’s worth doing, especially if you’re visiting on a time crunch.

This article includes 22 of the top things to do, as vetted by a Denver local! Whether you choose just a few top things to do in Estes Park or all of them, you’ll truly have a fun time.

So, what are you waiting for? Read on to learn all about the best things to do in Estes Park!

Table of Contents

At a Glance: Estes Park Activities

In a hurry? Here’s a map of the best things to do in Estes Park!

🌟 Plan on visiting more than two national parks this year? Save money with the America the Beautiful Pass here! 🌟

Top Things to do in Estes Park

Ride the estes park aerial tramway.

If you’re hoping to do some sightseeing in Estes Park, don’t overlook the Estes Park Aerial Tramway . This fun ride may only be 3.5 minutes long, but it’ll bring you up 1100 feet, and the views are absolutely impeccable.

The tram was built by Robert Heron and officially opened to the public in 1955. It instantly became a local (and tourist) favorite because it brings guests right up to the top of Prospect Mountain. To this day, it’s still owned by Heron’s family!

One thing to be aware of is that, unfortunately, if you’re looking for things to do in Estes Park in winter , the tram will be closed. It’s open seasonally and usually opens around Memorial Day weekend.

It costs about $16 per adult, $14 for seniors, and $10 for children aged 6-11. Those under 5 ride free!

Shop Locally Downtown

One of the things to do in downtown Estes Park is to go shopping! This is the perfect way to support the locals. In fact, 99% of the shops downtown are completely locally owned, besides a few chain stores.

Throughout the downtown area, you’ll find candy shops, an old movie theater, restaurants, and more. Plus, there are so many great souvenir shops, so even if you’re a picky souvenir shopper, you’ll be able to find just the perfect souvenir to take home.

On average, shopping downtown can take anywhere from one hour to an entire afternoon. It fully depends on how many shops you go into.

Wondering what shops to visit? Some can’t-miss stores included Earthwood Artisans , Patterson Glassworks , and Mocha Angelo’s.

Enjoy the Estes Park Riverwalk

If you’re looking for free things to do in Estes Park, then consider doing the Estes Park Riverwalk. There’s free parking right near Fall River, and then you can spend some time just walking all the way around the body of water.

The path itself is around 3.5 miles long, but the views are incredible, so it really won’t take that long to walk it. Plus, it’s fairly flat, making it very accessible, and it’s also stroller-friendly.

If you want to get out on the water, be sure to head to the Lake Estes Marina and rent a kayak!

Have a Drink at a Local Distillery

Head over to Elkins Distilling Co. and try some of the first legally-made whiskies from Estes Park! There’s an amazing tasting room experience right near Lake Estes, where you can support this local shop that opened in 2016.

They have a wide variety of whiskies, including corn whisky, Elkins apple, Colorado whisky, and even fire whisky. The best way to try them and find which one you love most is by stopping by the tasting room, so be sure to do that during your trip!

Having some whisky at the Elkins Distilling Co tasting room is one of the best things to do in Estes Park for couples.

Learn at the Estes Park Museum

Interested in learning more about Estes Park and the surrounding area? Be sure to visit the Estes Park Museum .

Though it may be small, it’s the perfect spot to visit on a rainy day and includes exhibits and artifacts dating back 100 years. The building itself was even built in the early 1900s.

One of the best parts about the museum is that it’s absolutely free, so there’s no harm at all in visiting.

Plus, stopping by the museum is the perfect opportunity to ask the workers questions if you want to know anything else about the beautiful Estes Park during your trip.

Drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

Have a bit more time on your hands? One of the most fun things to do around Estes Park is to drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

It’s 55 miles in total and goes between Estes Park and Central City, offering some of the best views that you can get in this area of Colorado.

Along the way, there are so many incredible places to stop at. Some popular pullover stops include Allenspark, Ward, Nederland, and Black Hawk (right near Central City).

Once you’re done with the drive, you can even pop over to Idaho Springs and have one of the best pizzas in Colorado at Beau Jo’s .

If you’re really into history, then you’ll absolutely love the byway because there are tons of gold mines along the drive. You may even find people panning for gold along the way! Some of the different historic mines are also still open to the public.

See a Show at Park Theatre

Park Theatre is a historic movie theatre that is still in action today! Stop by to see a show inside a vintage theatre; you absolutely won’t regret it. Plus, it’s located right near downtown, so it’s impossible to miss and is very easy to get to.

They’re open seasonally, and their upcoming films can be seen online. They’re not your average movie theatre, as they often play older titles mixed with a few modern ones! No matter what you choose to see at the movie theatre, you’ll have an amazing time.

Go White Water Rafting

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, white water rafting is the perfect activity for you! The Rocky Mountains are home to some of the best white water rafting in the country, and Estes Park is a great place to start.

There are several companies that offer rafting trips down the river, and they range from easy to challenging, depending on your experience level.

No matter what time of year you visit, there’s bound to be a whitewater rafting trip that’s right for you. The spring and summer months offer the most options, but there are also trips available in the fall and winter.

Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and pack plenty of sunscreen, snacks, and water.

Rafting the river is a great way to see some of Colorado’s beautiful scenery, and you’ll get a workout at the same time!

Have a Blast at Fun City

There’s no shortage of things to do in Estes Park, Colorado. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in the Rocky Mountains.

History buffs can explore the many museums and historical sites in the area. And families can visit the nearby mini amusement park, Fun City , for a day of fun.

The amusement park is located on the edge of town and offers a variety of rides and attractions for kids of all ages. There’s gemstone panning, water walking balls, bumper cars, go-karts, bumper boats, and even mini golf.

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, be sure to check out the amusement park in Estes Park. You won’t be disappointed!

Stargaze at Night

Believe it or not, one of the things to see in Estes Park is the stars! Because Estes Park is further out from Denver, the night sky is so clear that it’s almost unbelievable. Plus, there are quite a few spots to go stargazing throughout the town.

The best spot, easily, is in Rocky Mountain National Park . Head into the park in the evening and find a great spot to sit.

Many people will head up to the Bear Lake area, but there are tons of private picnic areas throughout the park where you can watch the stars in the evening.

Be sure to set your camera settings to the correct ones so you can capture the moment!

Take a Class at Colorado Mountain School

Have you always wondered how to rock climb or been interested in learning how to? Well, Colorado Mountain School is the place to go!

Open since the 80s, this school offers a wide variety of different courses, no matter what your skill level is.

One of the most popular courses is Intro to Rock Climbing, which is just $199 per person. It’s a day-long course where you’ll get introduced to rock climbing as well as all of the basics.

If you want to learn more, you can continue to take higher-level classes!

Make Art at Creativity Cabin Estes Park

One of the lesser-known attractions in Estes Park is Creativity Cabin . This fun place is run by a local family who wanted to design a place where people could just come and create. At the moment, their main feature is ceramics!

Reservations can be made online, but they also have walk-in hours that change depending on the time of year. This is such a fun activity if you’re visiting the area with children, planning a party, or even having a gathering with family.

Learn at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is a great place to check out in town that’s pretty underrated. This local establishment focuses on educating younger generations about astronomy and science and hosts many events throughout the year.

The best way to enjoy the observatory is by making a reservation ahead of time. While they don’t do online reservations, you can check out their website and make a call to hold your date.

Be sure to check their calendar to see what dates are best for seeing the moon!

Spend the Night at The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel is one of the most historical spots to visit in Estes Park and absolutely should not be overlooked. It’s pretty hard to miss it with its bright maroon and white exterior!

There’s a wide range of accommodation types here, so you can choose one that best suits your budget.

In addition, fans of Stephen King may know a bit about this hotel already! It’s said to have been King’s inspiration for The Shining .

Just one night in the hotel, and you may be able to find out why quickly!

Don’t forget to book well in advance, because this is one of the most popular and best-known hotels in Estes Park.

Spend a Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

Yes, even just one day in Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect to see the highlights! This park is one of the most popularly visited in the United States, and with the incredible hikes , alpine lakes, and scenic roads, it’s easy to understand why.

One of the best things to do in RMNP is to hike up to Emerald Lake . It’s a fairly moderate hike, but the time passes quickly because you pass about four other lakes and even a waterfall on the way! In total, it takes about four hours.

For an even more fun time, add Lake Haiyaha to the Emerald Lake hike. This is one of the most beautiful bright blue lakes you’ll ever see, and it doesn’t add that much more length to the trek!

If you’re hiking in winter, be sure to bring metal spikes for the bottom of your shoes to make sure you don’t slip. I’ve done many winter hikes there, and people always try to hike with sneakers. Trust me; it’s not a pretty sight!

Visiting in the winter means you don’t have to get a timed entry permit. If you are visiting spring through fall, make sure you make a permit reservation well in advance.

Read More: How to Spend One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park 🏔️

Try a Sweet at Purple Mountain Taffy Company

There’s almost always a line outside Purple Mountain Taffy Company, and that’s because visiting there is one of the best things to do in Estes Park, Colorado. This sweet shop has tons of taffy, and you’ll definitely want to fill up a bucket with your favorites!

Even though the line is long, just know that it’s very much worth it. Try to visit earlier in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds that come later in the day.

Ride the Estes Park Trolley

Get a beautiful tour of Estes Park by hopping on the Estes Park Trolley ! This is a fun activity for families and couples, especially visiting the area.

The most popular tour, as you may probably have guessed, is the Rocky Mountain National Park tour.

This three-hour tour runs year-round (as long as the weather isn’t terrible) and offers a great tour of RMNP. It’s one of the most visited parks in the country for a reason!

Along the way, there are excellent stops to take photos, including at Sprague Lake . There’s also one small hike as well. Ticket prices are $75 for adults and $35 for children.

Have a Handcrafted Local Wine at Snowy Peaks Winery

Should you be visiting Estes Park for a girl’s weekend, or you’re looking for a romantic evening out, look no further than Snowy Peaks Winery ! This local winery may be small, but they have some of the best drinks in this area of Colorado.

They’re located right in Estes Park and even have a tasting room where you can try some of their wines, which have won awards. Plus, it’s fairly affordable to do sampling at just $9 for around five different wine tastings!

What’s even better is that Snowy Peaks Winery is open every day of the week all year. So, no matter what time of year you’re visiting, you’ll be able to enjoy this local spot!

Play a Round of Golf at Meadow Mini Golf Course

Who doesn’t love mini-golf? If you’re looking for something to do and you want to enjoy the great outdoors (as you should in Colorado), then consider paying a visit to Meadow Mini Golf .

Here, you can take in the beautiful Estes Park views while having a bit of rivalry among friends!

Note that this is another of the more seasonal activities in Estes Park because it’s only open in the summer. However, it’s also one of the more historical attractions, dating back over 50 years!

While there, be sure to ask about some of the special holes. There are a few where if you get a hole-in-one, you’ll receive an entire free round on the house!

Attend the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival

Even though it’s one of the things to do near Estes Park, many people don’t even know that the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival even exists! However, it’s been going on for 46 years and counting as of 2022.

This event normally takes place in September over the course of a weekend. There are normally live bands, whiskey tastings, and more. Plus, it’s all right by some of the most beautiful views in the area! Tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Go to Aiden Sinclair’s Underground

If you’re looking for stuff to do in Estes Park, consider heading to Aidan Sinclair’s Underground . This is one of the more unique experiences that you can have in the town, and truthfully, it’s still something that’s not as popular as you think it would be!

This is basically an immersive magic show in a speakeasy at The Stanley Hotel. There are exclusive seats available, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to make sure you’re able to go for your visit.

Consider also staying right at the Stanley Hotel for your trip too!

Have breakfast at The Egg of Estes

The #1 most popular place to eat breakfast in Estes Park is The Egg of Estes! If you’re looking for a tasty bite to eat in the morning, this is it. Keep in mind that because it’s so popular, you may have to wait once you get there.

I absolutely love going to eat breakfast here after a nice morning hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Nothing beats a tasty meal after an early morning.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do in Estes Park

This post was all about the best things to do in Estes Park. During your trip, be sure to check out Denver, too; a beautiful city filled with affordable restaurants , history, and beautiful spots to take photos !

Frequently Asked Questions: Estes Park Activities

Yes, Estes Park is worth visiting, and most of the best attractions in the town can be seen within an afternoon!

Most of the shops in downtown Estes Park open around 10 a.m.

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway climbs 1100 feet in just under 4 minutes.

Estes Park is in Larimer County in Colorado.

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KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado

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There are a lot of different factors that make a great vacation destination, and Estes Park, Colorado , just about has it all. Ideal outdoor scenery, expansive mountain views, locally-owned boutiques, and several things to do for the whole family. Here's how to get the most out of this quiet but vibrant mountain town. 

Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Estes Park is the closest town to Colorado's famous Rocky Mountain National Park . When visitors think of Colorado's classic peaks, wildflower-filled valleys, and alpine scenery, it's undoubtedly this park they're thinking of. The park is open year-round, but visitors should aim for late spring, summer, and early fall when conditions are most suitable for various activities. You can hike to the top of the tallest mountains, bike over miles of beautiful trails, or sit by the lake and fish on Estes Park's doorstep.  

Grab a Brew at the Rock Cut Brewing Company

Colorado has become a haven for microbreweries, and that includes Estes Park. If you’re thirsty for a local brew, head towards the Rock Cut Brewing Company, right next to the aerial tramway entrance. Established in 2015, Rock Cut provides a relaxing setting to sip local suds while gazing at elk along the Rocky Mountains or the color combos of a good Colorado sunset. The taproom and patio offer a place for the whole family to relax, play games, and enjoy the local scenery. 

Visit the Inspiration for The Shining at the Stanley Hotel

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Stephen King's "The Shining" is a terrifying tale about a hotel keeper gone mad, but what inspired King to come up with the character's madness? The Stanley Hotel . This 142-room Colonial Revival hotel has excellent amenities and rooms that can comfortably host you and your family before hitting nearby Estes Park adventure. Superstitious guests should relax; the rumors of haunted rooms and ghosts roaming the halls only became popular after the book was written. 

Have a Glass of Local Wine at Snowy Peaks Winery

Colorado is famous for distilleries and microbreweries, but wine lovers visiting Estes Park can get their fill at the Snowy Peaks Winery. Snowy Peaks is all about proximity offering wines from Snowy Peaks’ vineyard and several locally-owned Colorado vineyards. On top of the dozens of wine selections, Snowy Peaks also offers locally produced cheeses, hand-crafted jams and jellies, and of course, decadent chocolate. Relax in a refined atmosphere with a view of local peaks by visiting Snowy Peaks Winery. 

Stroll Along the Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park

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The Big Thompson and Fall Rivers meander their way through downtown Estes Park . To help visitors and residents alike enjoy the sights and sounds of the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers, they built the Estes Park Riverwalk. The Riverwalk follows several points of interest, including the vibrant George Hix Riverside Plaza and all the bars, restaurants, and shops that dot downtown. The gentle trail is suitable for all ages and provides many places to sit and enjoy the nearby scenery. 

See Beautiful Artwork Created at Mountain Blown Glass

Estes Park has long been a haven for artisans and makers. Visitors can get a firsthand look at some of the locally produced original artwork at Mountain Blown Glass. The studio and gallery can be found in the heart of downtown Estes Park and offers unique and beautiful gifts like handblown vases, suncatchers, bowls, and much more. Blown Glass even offers a one-of-a-kind wedding ceremony where couples pour two different colored grains of sand to be mixed and blown into a piece the couple can cherish forever. If you need a great gift, stop by Mountain Blown Glass. 

Take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway

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How do you get the best view of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, and the surrounding scenery? By taking the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. Though the current Tramway is nestled in peaceful Estes Park, its designer Robert Heron got his start by designing tramways for use in Germany and Italy during World War II. After the war ended, Heron ventured around Europe to pull inspiration from existing gondolas before designing and building the one that hauls visitors above Estes Park. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway has only one post at the top and bottom, allowing for an unobstructed smooth ride to the top of Prospect Mountain. 

Find a Unique Gift at Red Rose Rock Shop and Dick’s Rock Museum

There are a few choices for exhibits and museums around the Estes Park area, but considering beautiful rocks surround you, why not visit a local rock shop and museum? This shop-museum combination features fossils, minerals, and gemstones from the Rocky Mountains and all parts of the world, providing a great venue to pick up a unique souvenir. The museum portion of the shop features unique gemstones like petrified wood and the process of turning an ordinary rock into beautiful works of art. 

Fly High at Open Air Adventure Park

Nearby RMNP is full of high adventure, but if you can’t venture out to the wilderness, visit the Open Air Adventure Park. Adjacent to the tramway, Open Air Adventure Park offers 32 unique obstacles up to 21 feet in the air, providing thrills for mom, dad, and the little ones. Strap in and explore over 800 feet of harrowing high-wire adventure, or tap into your inner woodsman with ax throwing once you’re back on the ground. 

Explore Lake Estes

TripSavvy / Tanya Nikolic

Estes Park is known for its proximity to jagged peaks, but those who love on-the-water adventure have an option at Lake Estes. This 185-acre reservoir features activities including fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and much more. A gentle 3.75-mile trail surrounds the lake, so you don’t have to get wet to explore Lake Estes. The Lake Estes marina provides bike rentals for a quick tour.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Estes Park, CO

Written by Carri Wilbanks and Becca Blond Updated Dec 23, 2023

In the Colorado High Country, Estes Park is the southern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and a charming mountain town in its own right with plenty of things to do.

Estes Park is a year-round travel destination. And while most tourists come in summer, locals will tell you that visiting in winter is a special experience: there are fewer crowds, the mountains are covered in a beautiful snowy blanket, and there are plenty of winter-focused outdoor activities to keep you busy.

Whether you are looking to challenge yourself with outdoor activities, from fly fishing to horseback riding, or prefer to explore scenic byways in the comfort of your vehicle, like the Peak to Peak, we've included activities for all styles of traveler. Check out our list of the top places to visit and things to do in Estes Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park

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Serving as a southern gateway, Estes Park is just a few minutes' drive from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the USA . The scenery here is truly inspiring, with craggy towering peaks, deep blue lakes, and velvet-like meadows with meandering rivers making up the wild backdrop.

Rocky Mountain National Park is also home to Trail Ridge Road (it closes in winter), which is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. , topping off at 12,183 feet high. When open, it connects Estes Park on one side of the park with the town of Grand Lake on the other.

For a quick hike on a packed gravel trail that is great for families, seniors, and visitors in wheelchairs, check out the easy Sprague Lake Trail . It is a 0.8-mile loop around the lake by the same moniker and boasts fabulous mountain views and opportunities to spot beavers and moose in the water. You can also fish for brook trout in the lake.

The park itself doesn't close in winter, however, and you can still hike some of the 300 miles of trails. And there are opportunities for cross-country and backcountry skiing.

If you are a fan of Stephen King, you won't want to miss The Stanley Hotel . The author was inspired to write his iconic novel The Shining after spending a night at the hotel. While the movie version of the book was not filmed in the historic Colorado hotel, the TV adaption was.

The Stanley, which recently celebrated its 100th birthday, is a landmark property in its own right. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it sits on a hill overlooking downtown Estes Park. You can spend the night if you choose, but you don't have to be a guest to visit. If you are interested in the supernatural, then sign up for the hotel's Night Spirit Tour .

Today the hotel is best seen on a day visit for its historic and cultural relevance.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave, Estes Park, Colorado

Read More: Best Small Towns in Colorado

Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Estes Park Aerial Tramway is another top thing to do in season in town. The tramway has been in operation since 1955 and takes you to the summit of Prospect Mountain .

It was designed after the European "free span" tram model that runs the cable from top to bottom without any towers in between, which gives you unobstructed views and photos not marred by towers.

From the mountain top, you have stunning views of 14,259-foot-high Longs Peak and the Continental Divide . There are also a few hiking trails and a café located at the summit.

Address: 420 E. Riverside Drive, Estes Park, Colorado

Lake Estes, on the main road into Downtown Estes Park, offers year-round activities, but is especially popular in summer. During the warmer months, you can take paddleboards and kayaks out on the lake. Gear can be rented from the Lake Estes Marina , which even rents out pontoon boats. The lake is also stocked with trout for fishing.

If you'd rather enjoy the water from the sideline, the lake is ringed by a 3.75-mile loop trail known as the Lake Estes Trail . You can hike or bike it, and the Continental Divide and other Rocky Mountain views (hello, Longs Peak ) are quite spectacular. You're also likely to see some of the local wild residents, from elk to bighorn sheep and possibly bears.

Address: Lake Estes Marina, 1770 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, Colorado

Read More: Best Lakes in Colorado

Getting off the road and onto the trail in an ATV is a classic Colorado experience. Estes Park ATV Rentals offers unguided ATV and other vehicle rentals, so you can explore at your own pace and not be hindered by a group — and the views around here are simply stunning.

The ATVs come with maps, helmets, and gas and are already parked on the trail, so you don't need to bring anything except your driver's license. You can book a half- or a full-day rental.

Address: 222 E. Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, Colorado

Designed in Frank Lloyd Wright style , the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center serves as the headquarters for Rocky Mountain National Park and first opened in 1967. The visitor center is open year-round, with slightly shorter hours in winter.

Inside the visitor center, you can watch a short park orientation film, as well as pick up information about the park itself, from ranger-suggested hikes to maps. Before leaving, make sure to walk to the west end of the parking lot. From here, you will have unobstructed views of Longs Peak and other towering mountain summits.

Address: 1000 US-36, Estes Park, Colorado

The Estes Park Museum recently celebrated its 50th birthday. Located just off Highway 36, it is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.

The museum chronicles the history of Estes Park. It begins with the first Native American inhabitants, continues on to the homesteaders that showed up in the 1860s, and then to the town's incorporation in 1917. Modern history, which has been shaped in a large part by a series of floods, the last of which took place in 1982, is also covered.

The museum also runs an interpretive center at the Historic Fall River Hydroplant. The plant was originally constructed in 1909 to power the Stanley Hotel. It is open by appointment only.

Address: 200 4th Street, Estes Park, Colorado

Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Head to the Open Air Adventure Park . It features a course with 32 different elements to traverse, including rope bridges, swinging logs, tightropes above the trees, and shifting platforms.

You'll be hooked safely into a harness the entire time, so no worries about getting hurt. The elements are as high up as 21 feet above ground, and there are plenty of opportunities to swing and leap along the zip lines.

The course is self-guided, so you can go at your own pace. There are, however, staff here to help you – and encourage you – along the way.

The Open Air Adventure Park is also the only place in town to try your hand at ax throwing. The 30-minute sessions cost $25 and allow you and three other people 16 years and over to throw axes at a target in a dedicated lane. Staff can assist with ax game recommendations and help improve your throwing technique.

Address: 490 Prospect Village Drive, Estes Park, Colorado

Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park on a horseback ride is another top thing to do around Estes Park. Head to Jackson Stables to meet your mount and take a trail ride into the park. The stables offer a number of rides, from hour-long affairs to full-day adventures that allow you to cover more ground, riding through wildflower-strewn meadows and into glacial basins.

Besides trail rides, Jackson Stables also offers kid-focused activities. They do pony rides, as well as horse-drawn hayrides in fall with stops for fireside s'mores.

Address: 2515 Tunnel Road, Estes Park, Colorado

Downtown Estes Park can get very crowded in the height of summer. Its main drag, Elkhorn Ave, which is where you'll find numerous shops, from the touristy t-shirt variety to more upmarket galleries, as well as restaurants, can feel downright claustrophobic. If this happens, do as the locals do and head to the Riverwalk.

The paved trail runs along the banks of the Big Thompson River, which runs parallel to Elkhorn Ave. The trail is usually less crowded, and you get the added audio bonus of running water.

It is easy to jump off the trail when you see a riverside patio restaurant that catches your fancy or a shop you want to pop into.

Colorado's oldest scenic byway just celebrated its 100th birthday, and the classic drive down the 55-mile Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is still the best around. The drive begins in Estes Park and then winds its way to Central City, a Victorian-era mining town.

This drive is not only stunning, with views aplenty of towering peaks, but it is also a way to experience the mountain scenery at its best in summer without the crowds you'll encounter driving Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park . There are also a number of worthwhile quirky small towns to pause at along the drive.

Also celebrating 50 years of fun in Estes Park, the aptly named Fun City is a landmark family favorite for everything from go-karts and bumper boats to mini-golf, gemstone panning, water walking balls, and a bungee trampoline. There are even carnival games and prizes.

And just because Fun City has been in business for half a century, don't think it is outdated. The activities were recently upgraded for this century, including go-karts and some state-of-the-art arcade games.

You can come for a few hours or all day. Purchase the All-Day Fun Pass if your kids want to try everything — it offers unlimited rides and activities.

Note that Fun City is a seasonal attraction open daily from late May to September.

Address: 455 Prospect Village Drive, Estes Park, Colorado

If you want to explore the backcountry but don't have the equipment or skills to do so solo, then check out Kent Mountain Adventure Center based in Estes Park. In operation for more than 30 years, they are industry leaders when it comes to mountaineering and rock climbing instruction. They offer guided ascents for beginners to advanced climbers.

In winter, you can sign up for ice climbing, backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing adventures. They also run Avalanche Education courses.

Address: 520 Steamer Pkwy, Estes Park, Colorado

Inside Rocky Mountain National Park, but close to the Estes Park entrance, Fern Lake Trail is a gorgeous 7.1-mile out-and-back hike that is especially stunning in early fall, when the leaves are changing colors and the first snow of the season covers the craggy peaks. The moderately difficult hiking trail gains 1,453 feet over the 3.5-mile trek to Fern Lake and follows the Big Thompson River.

If you fish, bring a rod — the high alpine lake is stocked with trout and offers excellent fishing. There are also stunning views of Fern Falls and Little Matterhorn and Notchtop Mountains from the north side of the lake. If you want to continue on to the falls you can do so — it is another 2.1 miles and a 1,050-foot elevation gain, however. Another option is to backpack to the lake and set up a tent at one of the many backcountry campsites around the lake.

The Estes Park Visitors Center is located in downtown Estes Park on Big Thompson Avenue and stays open year-round. This is where to come to learn everything you need to know about the best places to visit.

The helpful staff here can help with recommendations for restaurants and offer advice on activities, from guided fly fishing adventures to jeep tours, and where to book. If you are traveling with your dog they can even recommend hiking trails around Estes Park that are dog-friendly.

Address: 500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, Colorado

Estes Park serves as a white-water rafting base for running stretches of the Cache La Poudre and Colorado Rivers in the summer. Rapid Transit Rafting is based in Estes Park and runs half-day and full-day trips on both rivers. The company provides transportation from Estes Park to and from the launch sites, as the sections of the river with rapids are between a one- and two-hours' drive away.

The company runs a full-day trip down the Colorado River that departs from Estes Park High School and includes a drive on Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park on the way to the put-in spot.

You'll run a 12-mile stretch of river that includes flat stretches interspersed with class II and III rapids suitable to first-timers. A riverside deli-style lunch buffet is also provided. These trips run from June through August depending on river conditions.

For a half-day trip, you'll want to run the Cache La Poudre River, which also features class II and II rapids but is a faster run, with little float water between rapids. The company runs two to three trips per day during its mid-June through early August peak season.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Mile High City: From Estes Park, it is just a 1.5-hour drive via Boulder to reach Colorado's capital city, Denver. There is much to experience in this thriving city, which is also home to a foodie restaurant scene. For more details, check out our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Denver article, which gives you the scoop on everything to see and do in town.

More Mountains: If you haven't had your fill of mountains yet, and especially if you want to do some skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty more mountain towns to play in. Our article on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado will point you in the right direction when it comes to winter snow sports. Best of all, a number of Colorado's top ski resorts are within a few hours' drive of Estes Park. In summer, spend some time by the water at one of Colorado's best lakes .

More on Colorado

18 Best Things to Do in Estes Park, CO

Featuring a walkable, charming downtown, river views, and excellent restaurants and breweries overlooked by the towering Rocky Mountains, the beautiful views and many things to do in Estes Park make it one of the most beloved places to visit in Colorado!

As the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is bound to be popular–but it’s a delightful town in its own right, featuring plenty of fun attractions and an atmosphere you can’t help but love.

Hoping to visit soon?

Here are the best things to do in Estes Park, CO!

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Fun Things to Do in Estes Park, CO

Where to stay in estes park, getting around estes park, the best time to visit estes park.

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Ride the Estes Park Tramway for incredible views.

A mere 3 and a half minute ride in Estes Park’s charming red tramway will deliver you to the top of Prospect Mountain, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains.

The tramway is one of the most popular attractions in Estes Park, so consider going outside of peak hours to avoid the crowds!

It is open daily from May-September, and then only on weekends in September (if the weather allows, of course).

Browse the shops downtown.

Though small, Estes Park has one of our favorite downtown centers of any small town we’ve visited in the USA.

With its charming architecture, beautiful river views, and a huge variety of restaurants and shops selling everything from standard souvenirs and homemade fudge to local art, it’s a joy to wander through (in our case, with a cup of coffee in hand each morning).

If you love perusing historic treasures, don’t miss Fall River Jewelry and Antiques , which is one of the coolest antique stores we’ve ever visited!

Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a letter handwritten by George Washington (seriously), you’re bound to find something memorable.

… and snap a photo with the beautiful Park Theatre.

Built in 1913, the distinctive Park Theatre is one of the most recognizable buildings in Estes Park, and a must-see while in town (follow the river into the center of town, and you’ll find it).

If you happen to have bad luck with the weather during your vacation, you can even add seeing a movie here to your list of what to do in Estes Park.

The theatre plays both classics and new releases.

Get incredible views at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory.

To experience beautiful night skies near Estes Park, all you need to do is go outside and look up!

For the best views, though, head to the Estes Park Memorial Observatory .

Visit Estes Park’s laid-back breweries.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Colorado without a trip (or several) to a local brewery!

Estes Park has several breweries to choose from (plus a winery thrown in for a bit of variety), so you’ll have no problem finding a delicious burger and local beer to enjoy after a long hike.

Stroll along the Riverwalk.

Winding through town parallel to the Big Thompson/Fall River, the Estes Park Riverwalk is one of my favorite places in town. 

Combining all the charm of downtown (and the resulting easy access to snacks and shops) with all the beauty that people come to Colorado to experience, it’s one of the best places to visit in Estes Park, CO.

Go horseback riding in the Rockies.

While there are many ways to enjoy the iconic soaring peaks and sweeping valleys of the Rockies during a trip to Estes Park, horseback certainly has to be one of the best!

There are stables available for trail rides both in and outside Rocky Mountain National Park.

(Safely) observe elk.

You can find elk just about everywhere in Estes Park, from the visitor’s center to the golf course to the river itself.

It’s one of the coolest things about visiting Estes Park–but as elk have been known to charge visitors who get too close, be careful to keep a safe distance (25 yards is the minimum distance recommended).

One of the most interesting (but also dangerous) times to observe the elk is during the rutting season , which generally starts in mid-September and lasts for about a month.

Visit the Estes Park Museum.

Dedicated to the history of Estes Park, this local museum features everything from a historic cabin dating to the early 20th century to oral histories detailing events in the region.

Take a scenic drive.

Estes Park is located right by some of the most stunning scenic drives in the USA, ranging from RMNP’s Trail Ridge Road to the ever-popular Peak to Peak Scenic Byway–the oldest scenic byway in Colorado!

Check out Enos Mills’ cabin.

One of the most unique things to do in Estes Park is to visit the beautiful 19th-century log cabin built in 1885 by Enos Mills, the “Father of Rocky Mountain National Park”.

Mills lived an extraordinary life, and his descendants maintain this small museum in his honor.

Visits are by appointment only, so plan ahead if you’d like to visit during your Estes Park vacation!

Pay a visit to the Stanley Hotel.

Looming tall over Estes Park, the gorgeous Stanley Hotel served as the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining . 

King was inspired to write the book based on his experience staying at The Stanley Hotel with his wife at the very end of the season when they were the only overnight guests in the hotel.

The hotel opened in 1909, catering to wealthy customers, and is still operational to this day.

We hadn’t ever read or seen The Shining before visiting Estes Park, so took the opportunity to watch the 1980 Stanley Kubrick movie while there–and it definitely made our experience visiting The Stanley more interesting (though it’s worth noting that the movie wasn’t filmed there).

Grabbing a drink at the historic Whiskey Bar is the perfect way to cap off a quick visit.

If you’d like to stay longer, consider signing up for a tour –the hotel offers both historical tours during the day and spooky, paranormal-centered tours at night.

Go whitewater rafting.

You can’t go whitewater rafting directly in Estes Park–but it does make for a fantastic day trip!

There are several whitewater rafting companies based in Estes Park that will take you to the Poudre or Colorado River for an exciting adventure on the water.

Take a walk along Lake Estes.

The peaceful, beautiful Lake Estes is within walking distance of downtown and is the perfect spot for a quiet morning stroll.

For those of us traveling to Estes Park with dogs, just across the road from Lake Estes is also where you’ll find the Estes Valley Dog Park, complete with water access for the pups!

… or paddle across it.

Prefer a bit more of an active visit?

Consider renting a canoe, kayak, or even a paddleboat to enjoy the lake instead.

Take the kids to Fun City for the afternoon.

Featuring family vacation classics like bumper boats and go-karts, along with more Colorado-themed fun like gem panning, Fun City makes an excellent place to spend an afternoon as a family.

Grab a slice or two at You Need Pie!

A guide to where to eat in town could easily be its own Estes Park blog post, however, You Need Pie! deserves a special mention.

This homegrown pie shop has been enchanting visitors since 2006 (it has moved locations within Estes Park since then), and their fruit pies remain some of my absolute favorite in the world.

Breakfast is served all day, and their diner food is tasty, but seriously–don’t miss the pie (I’m personally partial to the fruit pies).

In fact, if you’re renting a cabin or a place with a kitchen, do yourself a favor and pick up a full pie on your first day in town to eat once you get home from each of your hikes.

You won’t regret it!

Last but not least: visit Rocky Mountain National Park!

Of course, absolutely no list of things to see in Estes Park would be complete without mentioning the reason everyone comes in the first place: Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)!

Known for its gorgeous lakes, great wildlife spotting opportunities, stunning mountain peaks, scenic drives, and of course legendary hikes, there’s a reason that Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the top five most-visited national parks in the country: it is both incredibly beautiful and has something for everyone.

Estes Park is about a 10-minute drive from the closest national park entrance, making it one of the best places to base yourself when heading to RMNP.

There is no shortage of places to stay in Estes Park, ranging from luxurious log cabins set right on the river to no-frills, comfortable lodges, and even includes the most famous haunted hotel in America (according to The Shining , anyway).

No matter what your taste in lodging, this classic Colorado mountain town has plenty of options for you.

Personally, we prefer to stay within walking distance of downtown when possible.

Given that there is limited parking downtown and that it’s so close to Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s the perfect choice for us–and each of the properties we recommend here is within walking distance of Estes Park’s center.

Discovery Lodge — We initially chose to stay at this property recently for one important reason: our dog, Ranger, was welcome!

We ended up loving it enough to re-book for a second visit, though: with an excellent location less than a 10-minute walk from downtown and perfect views of the many elk that liked to gather at the Estes Park Golf Course next door, it was a great retreat.

Rooms are spacious, and while basic, have clearly been updated in recent years and are very comfortable.

We’d be happy to continue returning here when traveling to Estes Park with Ranger.

Check rates & book your stay at Discovery Lodge!

Nicky’s Resort — With absolutely gorgeous architecture, including a mostly-glass wall in the lobby to better enjoy the mountain views, excellent service, and cozy touches like stone fireplaces in some rooms, Nicky’s Resort is a fantastic place to stay in Estes Park.

While the resort is located within walking distance of Estes Park, there is also a restaurant on-site for easy and delicious meals.

Check rates & book your stay at Nicky’s Resort!

The Stanley Hotel — For absolutely classic, luxurious accommodation with a perfect location and a side of ghost stories, you can’t beat The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park.

However, be sure to book carefully–with multiple buildings on the property, you’ll want to make sure the room you book is what you have in mind!

If you want to be in the main building, for example, don’t book in the (nearby and also lovely) Aspire Residences.

Check rates & book your stay at The Stanley Hotel!

While central Estes Park is fairly walkable, and if you choose a hotel close to downtown you can likely walk to some meals and shops, you absolutely need your own car to effectively visit Estes Park and the surrounding area.

If you’re flying into Denver, the best company to rent from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip.

Shop rental cars for your trip to Colorado today!

This beautiful mountain town is truly a year-round destination, but the best things to do in Estes Park vary dramatically based on when you visit!

We focused primarily on non-snow activities in this blog post about what to do in Estes Park, but winter also has its charms, including excellent wildlife watching, skiing, and the opportunity to go snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Contrary to popular belief, though, winter isn’t when Estes Park experiences its biggest snowstorms: those are reserved for the spring, specifically March and April.

Spring also brings beautiful wildflowers and young wildlife, though–it’s a season when you need to be prepared for anything!

Summer is the most popular time to visit Estes Park and to take a Colorado road trip in general: beautiful weather, high prices, and big crowds are to be expected.

Fall is also a magnificent time to visit, bringing the changing colors of foliage, the mating season for wildlife (particularly elk), and often stunning weather.

Foliage in Rocky Mountain National Park tends to peak in late September, and some places in Rocky Mountain National Park like the Trail Ridge Road tend to close by mid-October.

Whenever you choose to visit, you’re bound to have a wonderful time as well as you are flexible with what to see in Estes Park.

Visiting the Colorado mountains means signing up for unpredictable weather in any season, so come prepared to shift plans around if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate with yours! 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

7 thoughts on “18 Best Things to Do in Estes Park, CO”

I was up there in October of 2019. I h ave family that lives in Co. and I will say it was the best week I had. Estes Park was the best place to mark off my bucket list. Thank you aMr. Stanley for the hotel.

My niece is in the Denver area. We visit her every year. Going in November and will spend some nights is a cabin across from the visitor’s center. It’s pure heaven!!

Pure heaven is right. We’re actually in Estes Park on yet another return trip as I type this, soaking up every minute of that crisp mountain air!

You need to add Mustang Mountain Rollercoaster to this list. You’re missing out not trying this gem!

Thanks for the tip!

The Donut Haus is an institution in Estes. Go early before they sell out!

Thanks for the recommendation!

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The 19 Best Estes Park Things to Do (Including the Most Amazing Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes)

Estes Park right ourside of Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect base for explore this National Park.

Whether you are brrezing through in one day or have a week to exploring, this list of the best Estes Park things to do will help you plan the perfect trip. Below you can see a quick list of the top things to do in Estes Park Colorado, or scroll down for more details.

We visited Estes Park most recently during the summer of 2021 but Dave and I also lived in Boulder for a year and spent lots of time exploring the area. We’ll share our favorite activities and destinations in the park and in the area.

You may also like: Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

Quick Look at the Best Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Things to Do

Here is a snapshot of the top best things to do in Estes Park.

• Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Nymph, Dream and Emerald Lake

Sky pond via glacier gorge, gem lake trail, deer mountain, take a drive through rocky mountain national park and stop at the scenic overlooks, visit lake estes, take the estes park aerial tramway, drive the peak to peak scenic byway, go white water rafting, go horseback riding.

• Explore downtown Estes Park and do the Riverwalk
• Look for elk and other animals

Try Rock Climbing

Go backpacking, visit boulder and the flatirons.

• Explore one of the hiking trails on snowshoes or skis

What to Know About Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park is located right outside the main entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and many of the best things to do in Estes Park are activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here are a few important things to know to help you plan the best Estes Park vacation.

• Estes Park is easy to get to from Denver and is just about and hour and 30 minute drive from the airport
• Estes Park is located at an elevation of 7,500 feet and Rocky Mountain National Park is higher than this (depending on where you are). If you are traveling here from sea level, you should drink extra water and give yourself time to acclimate.
• Rocky Mountain National Park uses a timed entry system. You will need to reserve your time in advance. You will need to select either the Bear Lake Cooridor (also good for the rest of the park) or just an entrance to the Park (this doesn’t include the Bear Lake Cooridor). Many of the best hikes are on the Beark Lake so try to get an entry to this part of the park for at least one or two days. You can see more details and get your entry spot book at the National Park Service .
• There are 4 entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park . Beaver Meadows is the most direct entrance from Estes Park. Fall River Entrance is also just outside Estes Park and is a bit quieter. Wild Basin Entrance is about 30 minutes from Estes Park. Grand Lake Entrance is on the western part of the park.
• Rocky Mountain National Park is open year round, but always check to see current conditions and closures.

Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

The best time to visit Estes Park is in the late spring through the fall. Winter can also be a beautiful time to visit but take more planning and preparation. Summer is the busiest time to visit Estes Park and the Rocky Mountains. If you have flexibility, try to visit the park in late spring or early fall when the weather is still warm, but there are fewer crowds.

Many parts of the Rocky Mountains are located at high elevations, so you are likely to see snow all year and will likely be hiking in the snow by mid-fall.

Map of the Top Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Things to Do

What to do in Estes Park: 19 Best Activities

There are so many wonderful things to do near Estes Park, Colorado. Many of the best Estes Park things to do are inside Rocky Mountain National Park and you can find some of the best hiking inside the park. You can also find plenty of amazing things to do in the area just outside the park.

Best Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park

Hiking is easily the best thing to do in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here are 6 of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

This is a 3.2 miles hike that goes past 3 amazing lakes. You will start in the forest at the very end of Bear Lake Rd, and climb out above tree level to the breathetaking Emerald Lake. This is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. If you don’t feel up to the full hike, you can also just hike to Nymph or Dream Lakes.

The trail ascends steadily and the footing is generally good. See more about hiking to Nymph, Dream and Emerald Lake.

This is a much longer and more difficult hike to one of the best alpine lakes in Colorado. This hike passes Alberta Falls, the loch, Glass Pond and ends at Sky Pond. Sky Pond is surrounded by stunning mountains and cliffs. Even though this is a very popular hike, it’s so long and open at the top that it never felt too crowded.

The hike itself has a gentle incline for most of the way until you get to the last mile. There is a steep section that includes a scramble up the rocks of the waterfall. From here you continue walking to the right until you get to Sky Pond. Just like the Emerald Lake Trail, there are so many things to see along the way that you can turn around at any point on the hike.

Check out: 7 Things You Should Know about Hiking to Sky Pond

This trail gains 1,000 feet over a relatively short distance so is relatively steep. There are breathetaking views along much of the trail and finishes at the beautiful Gem Lake. There are several ways to make this into a longer hike. You can take a sidetrail to Twin Owls to some amazing rock features and views of Longs Peak. You can also continue further along the trail once you reach Gem Lake.

Although technically in the park, the trailhead is outside the park making it a great hike close to town.

Another beautiful hike that ends at a stunning alpine lake. Chasm Lake is a challenging hike that start at teh Long’s Peak Trailhead. At about 3 miles you make it above treeline. The trail finishes with a scramble through a boulder field and you can follow some cairns up to the lake. Hiking poles are especially helpful for this section.

Chasm Lake sits at the base of Mount Lady Washington and Long’s Peak.

If you are looking to summit a mountain while you’re in Rocky Mountain National Park but aren’t up for one of the bigger hikes. This is a loop trail and has truly amazing views the entire way but since you are committing to a hard loop, it’s best to start early.

Also note that this hike isn’t on the Beark Lake Rd, so if you aren’t able to get a timed entry to this part of the park this is a great option for your hike.

This easy little trail is a great addition to the Emerald Lake Trail, or can be done as a short walk on it’s own. The trail goes right around Bear Lake so has gorgeous views of the water and the nearby mountains. The trail around the lake is well maintained, wide, and is wheel chair accessible.

Taking a drive through Rocky Mountain National Park is definintely one of the best things you can do near Estes Park. If you can get the timed entry for the Bear Lake Cooridor, you should plan to drive up Bear Lake Rd and then drive up Trail Ridge Rd. Make sure to make some stops for photos at the scenic overlooks including Many Parks Curve, Forest Canyon Overlook, and Fairview Curve.

Lake Estes is located right outside the town of Estes Park. There is a flat and easy trail that goes right around the lake. The Lake Estes Marina also offers boat rentals if you want to get out on the water. You can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and motorboats. If you are planning a morning hiking, ending your day with a paddle on the lake is perfect.

Starting right in Estes Park, the tramway offers a one of kind view of the town, lake and mountains. Based on the trams in Europe, the tram operates in the summer months and has been operating since 1955. You can see more information on tickets and hours on the Tramways website.

Stretching between Estes Park and Central City, this beatiful drive has views of the mountains and front range and is a great day trip or you can drive to Estes Park via this road. We came from Boulder and drive up into the mountains for a few days and took this road up to Estes Park.

As Colorado’s oldest scenic byway, it’s worth the drive!

There are several nearby places to try out white waer rafting near Fort Collins just north of Estes Park. Many of these companies also offer fishing, kayaking or other water sports. Check out Rocky Mountain Adventures .

There are several stables nearby that offer horseback riding. At Jackson Stables you can choose from a variety of riding lengths some of which go up into the hills. If you are travelling with kids, there are lots of options for kids rides as well.

Explore Downtown Estes Park and do the Riverwalk

If you are spending time in Estes Park, make sure you set aside some time to explore the town. With plenty of shops and places to eat, you can easily spend an afternon exploring. We also walked the Riverwalk one afternoon and loved finding our way along the water. We even came back one night to grab some food by the water.

While there are many excellent hiking trails in the park, the Riverwalk trail is one of the top hikes in Estes Park.

Look for Elk and other Animals

With it’s own Elk Herd, Estes Park is a great place to see these fun animals. The best places to look for Elk include Horseshoe Park, Moraine Park, or Upper Beaver Meadows, particularly in Sept. You can also be on the lookout for bighorn sheep, bear, rabbits, pika, and more.

If you’re up for some extreme sports, one of the best Estes Park things to do is to try out rock climbing. If you are a seasoned climber, there are many options nearby, but if you are new to the sport, you can check out Kent Mountain Adventure Center . They offer courses and activities for rock climbing and a variety of other extreme sports.

If you are excited to explore the backcountry on more than a hike, you can set up an overnight backpacking trip. Getting a backcountry camping permit in Rocky Mountain National Park is highly competitive and can be done through NPS .

If you are too late or just don’t get a permit, you can still backpack at one of the many sites outside of the National Park.

I might be biased since I lived in Boulder for a year, but this is a great town, and if you are spending time in Estes Park, you should set aside some time to stop at Boulder. There are great places to eat and walk and you can hike right along the base of the flatirons.

Explore One of the Hiking Trails on Snowshoes or Skis

If you are looking for some of the best Estes Park things to do in winter, you should consider tackling some of the hiking trail above on snowshoes or skis. The park remains open in the winter and there are wonderful opporunities to get out in the snow. Be aware that some locations need additional backcountry skills, especially up in the mountains.

How to Get to Estes Park

Estes Park is easy to get to from Denver. If you are coming by car, you will drive about 1.5 hours from the airport. Estes Park is about 1 hour from Boulder and Fort Collins. The best way to get around Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park is by car. There are several shuttles that run around Estes Park and within Rocky Mountain National Park, but it will be difficult to see everything by shuttle.

Best Lodging Near Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

On our most recent trip to Estes Park, we camped at Hermit Hollow Campground and really enjoyed this campground just a bit outside of town. We also looked at several other options in the area that all have good options and are well rated:

• Streamside on Fall River
• Boulder Brook on Fall River
• Sonnenhof Lakewood Manor Bed and Breakfast

Did I miss any of your favorite Estes Park Things to do? Leave a comment with your favorites.

Common Questions about Estes Park Things to Do

What are the must-visit attractions in Estes Park?

Estes Park offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the must-visit places include the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, the historic Stanley Hotel, and the charming downtown area with its shops and restaurants. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful Estes Park Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

When is the best time to visit Estes Park for outdoor activities?

The best time to visit Estes Park for outdoor activities depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping in Rocky Mountain National Park. Fall (September to October) offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) is perfect for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while spring (March to May) brings the opportunity to witness wildflowers and enjoy less crowded trails.

What should I know about wildlife encounters in Estes Park?

Answer: Estes Park is known for its abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, bears, and various bird species. To ensure safe and respectful wildlife encounters, follow these guidelines:

• Keep a safe distance: Stay at least 100 yards away from larger animals like elk and bears.
• Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views.
• Do not feed wildlife; it can harm them and is illegal in national parks.
• Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
• Be alert when driving, especially at dawn and dusk, as animals may cross the road.
• Respect park regulations and guidelines for wildlife safety.

We’re on a mission to explore all the US National Parks – if you found this guide on the best Rocky Mountain and Estes Park things to do, follow along with us and see more National Parks Guide on our National Parks Page.

About the Author: Gretchen Stuppy Carlson

A passionate adventurer and travel agent dedicated to getting families outside and exploring. Gretchen is an expert in adventure travel with 15+ years of experience working in outdoor education and travelling with her own family.

View all posts by Gretchen Stuppy Carlson | Website

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Activities To Do in Estes Park, CO

There is so much to do when visiting Estes Park, Colorado that it's hard to decide where to start, what to see, and when to see it. What we do know is that you definitely can't experience all the beauty this place has to offer in one day...or in one season, which means you'll have to keep coming back! Here are some of the top things to do in this exciting mountain town. 

Get Outside, Of Course!

There are endless ways to get outside and the best part is: you don’t have to be a pro to access these activities. From hiking to backcountry skiing , you haven’t experienced all of Estes Park until you’ve immersed yourself in all four seasons. The trail to the popular Dream Lake looks completely different in the summer than it does in the winter. If you’re looking to get into Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer, you’ll need a timed entry permit reservation from May 26 - mid October. Trust us; this system will make your experience on the trails so much better.

Interested in rock climbing? Performance Park is right in town and is an amphitheater backed by a rock wall perfect for all levels. New to climbing? Hire a climbing guide . Picnic tables, a grassy area, and concrete steps on the riverbank make for perfect picnicking locations while you rest your forearms in between climbs. 

What about mountain biking? While mountain biking is not allowed on the trails of Rocky Mountain National Park, that shouldn’t stop you from getting your fix elsewhere in Estes Park. Our favorite spot for mountain biking is Hermit Park. Need to rent a mountain bike? Head to the Estes Park Mountain Shop , they’ll get you set up with gear and maybe even a few insider tips if you chat them up. Mountain biking isn’t the only thing you can do in Hermit Park. It’s also a great spot for horseback riding , hiking, and camping ! Check out our guide of Hermit Park

Interested in winter adventure ? We’ve got plenty. Check out the different winter snowsports offered in the area and which Estes Park guiding services will teach you how to take part.

Stay in a cozy cabin

Nothing screams “mountain getaway” like choosing the best home base to watch the snow fall or listen to the river run by. Luckily you can't go wrong in Estes Park when mountain views are included with every stay. When choosing where to lay your head however, we all tend to prioritize different things. Are you on a budget? Looking for a romantic riverside cabin ? A place that will entertain your kids for days? We put together some ideas based on the type of trip you're yearning.

If you’ve driven into Estes Park, you’ve driven by Lake Estes. Lake Estes is a hotspot for recreation with its surrounding 3.75-mile paved trail and the Marina is your go-to place for water gear. There are so many options when it comes to the available fun on Lake Estes! Take your pick of biking, fishing , paddle boarding, pontooning, picnicking, bird-watching and more, or make a day out of it and do it all! Here’s a complete itinerary for spending the day on the lake .

Lean into the haunted side of Estes Park

Of course, we all know the stories about the historic Stanley Hotel and its connection to The Shining. But did you know a lot of other places in Estes have a haunted history like the Seven Keys Lodge (formerly the Baldpate Inn)? There are so many stories that we decided to put a few of them in an episode of our podcast, Exploring Estes Park: Myths and Mysteries.    

Come to an Event

Planning a trip for summer ? From the highest rodeo in the country to runners' highs, summer events are bursting with action. Fall events are packed as well. Celebrate the elk rut and the colorful leaves almost every weekend in September and October at the popular Elk Fest or the Autumn Gold Festival. Coming in winter ? Spending the holidays in this charming mountain town just screams the perfect holiday card. The Catch the Glow Parade kicks off the season the day after Thanksgiving and the celebrations continue all season long with a Snowman Festival, a Sweets Stroll and more. New to Estes this year is Estes Park Skijor , where a horse and rider pull a skier as fast as possible through gates, jumps and obstacles.  Wine & Chocolate in February for the lovebirds, Whiskey Warm-Up in March for the connoisseurs, and Bigfoot Days in April for the believers are just a few exciting events that take place in the winter. March also has Frozen Dead Guy Days , which is a beloved Colorado event that started in nearby Nederland and is now in Estes Park! This March weekend is filled with weird traditions like coffin races and polar plunges accompanied by an impressive line-up of music . And if a frozen dead guy isn’t your jam, come anyway and we'll prove you wrong. 

See the Elk Rut

Elk are everywhere in Estes Park but they are especially present during mating season, and it happens every fall in Estes Park, roughly beginning mid-September and lasting for about a month. The sound of a bull elk bugling is one of the most plaintive and captivating things that you can hear in the mountains. The elk rut is a wild time of year—both for the elk and for us human onlookers. From a safe vantage point, you can watch the bulls attracting, herding, and fighting for their harems. The drama doesn’t only unfold in the mountains either. It is not uncommon to see a harem of 30 cows with one or two bull elk sprawled across the lawns of the golf courses in town, which is why it’s so important to remember that our wildlife is just that, wild and they need to be treated with respect. Here are some practical know-before-you-go tips when it comes to watching the elk rut or any kind of wildlife in Estes Park. 

Eat & Drink

From foodies to families, the restaurants in Estes Park have you covered! The eclectic mix of locally owned restaurants in Estes offers unique, authentic dining experiences that go beyond just a great meal. Bird & Jim celebrates the history of this beautiful mountain town through Isabella Bird's and Mountain Jim's spirit. The Stanley Hotel has a stacked resume when it comes to drinking and dining with Brunch & Co , Cascades , The Post , and the 217 Wine Bar . Families love Poppy's Pizza & Grill and Ed's Cantina . And for brunch ? If you want to feel right at home, Claire's is located right on Bond Park and has a beautiful wraparound front porch. If you're looking for all of those classic diner options: Notchtop will take care of you. Our picks for best post-hike beers are the Barrel for beer garden vibes, Rock Cut Brewing for trivia nights, Avant Garde Aleworks for its patio, and Lumpy Ridge Brewing , which used to be a gas station!

Stroll Elkhorn Avenue

Find local art, souvenirs, handcrafted goods, gifts, apparel...and taffy. Estes Park has more than 300 shops that you won’t find anywhere else. Pick up some fuel at Kind Coffee  make your way down the riverwalk and shop to the soundtrack of the river, a true therapeutic experience. Elkhorn Avenue isn't the only place to get your shopping in either, the vibrant  Highway 7 corridor , the eclectic  West Moraine Avenue , and the homey Highway 34 corridor offer great options for food , lodging , and of course, shopping. 

Climb the Via Ferrata 

To climb via Ferrata is to climb iron rungs bolted into the rock face while being tied into steel cables also bolted into the rockface. It’s a different and exhilarating way to rock climb , fun if you’re a climber, and fun if you’ve never climbed. Kent Mountain Adventure Center (KMAC) takes out private groups to climb their two via Ferrata routes. They provide all of the gear and guides. Views from the route look across the Estes Valley and into Rocky Mountain National Park here, too. It’s stunning. KMAC also offers cliff camping. If you’re into it, you have to try it! Learn more .

Bring the Whole Family 

Estes Park is the ideal family destination. The Mustang Mountain Coaster is the perfect rollercoaster for the young and the young at heart. At Fun City , find a giant rainbow slide and even water walking balls to cool off from the intense Colorado sun. At Ride a Kart , race go-karts, play mini golf, or splash around in bumper boats. If you're not already staying at the YMCA (even though we think you should) we recommend purchasing a day pass so you can access all the fantastic activities . You could never leave this property during your visit and still get a fulfilling Estes Park experience with the family. They have it all: dog-friendly trails, arts and crafts, biking, volleyball, sledding , ice skating, fishing, miniature golf… the list goes on. This is the perfect place to gather your family unit or if you're brave enough, invite all the branches of your family tree. 

Drive Trail Ridge Road

Although every drive in and around Estes Park is scenic, Trail Ridge Road takes first place. Connecting Grand Lake to Estes Park and stretching 48 miles, Trail Ridge Road offers thrilling perspectives of Rocky Mountain National Park's best peaks, beautiful wildflowers and wildlife above the tree line, and endless pull-off spots to find your daily dose of awe. This road is typically open from late May until October. 

Kendall Akin

Kendall grew up in Austin and like a lot of Texans do, fell in love with Colorado for its crisp mountain air and couldn't wait to make the move. Kendall stays curious about the world through her love of traveling, conversations with kind strangers & listening to every Avett Brothers song on repeat to find new meanings. Her "Estes Favorite" is walking up and down the river walk with a hot cup of coffee.

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27 Of The Best Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado

Estes Park is one of Colorado’s most popular vacation destinations thanks to the town’s excellent mountain views, wildlife, and close proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park.

From hiking to whitewater rafting and fishing, Estes Park offers a wide range of outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages, plus some attractions which may surprise you, such as museums and art classes.

I’ve lived in Denver most my life and love visiting Estes Park whenever I can! Wondering what to do during your visit? Read on for the best things to do in Estes Park, Colorado.

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do in Estes Park, Colorado

Explore downtown estes park.

Downtown Estes Park runs for a few blocks along Elkhorn and Moraine Avenues following the Big Thompson River.

You can’t miss this lively area full of boutique and souvenir shops, dining, galleries, and charming outdoor patios serving cold beer amidst live music. Not to mention, tons of sweet shops selling ice cream, taffy, and chocolate.

Tip: The Taffy Shop and Purple Mountain Taffy Company are favorites among visitors!

The downtown area is the perfect place to spend an afternoon and is easily one of the most popular things to do in Estes Park.  

Note: This area gets very crowded and parking can be limited, even more so with the current construction. I opt for paid parking lots since street parking is sparse. There’s a parking lot located behind the Historic Park Theatre with plenty of parking spaces, roughly located at Rockwell Street & Riverside Drive. 

Lake Estes is a small reservoir within walking distance of downtown. It has a small beach area, walking trails, and marina where you can kayak, stand up paddle board, or boat.

This is a wonderful place to spend a day on the water while taking in beautiful mountain views, or simply go for a walk.

If needed, there are a number of kayak/ SUP rental companies on the lake.

Tip: Lily Lake is a lovely alternative to Lake Estes, located just 15 minutes from town. The lake is in Rocky Mountain National Park and a park pass is required, I’ll cover this in further detail below. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake and there are no rental companies on site. 

The Stanley Hotel

The historic Stanley Hotel is one of Estes Park’s most famous attractions. Built in 1909, this Colonial Revival-hotel, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was very modern for its time.

In fact, in building this hotel, F.O. Stanley provided most of Estes Park’s early infrastructure. Most notably, the Fall River Hydroplant, which first brought electricity to the remote town. 

This historic and well-preserved hotel became famous decades after its opening, when it inspired Stephen King to write his best-selling novel, The Shining .

Stephen King and his wife spent one night in Room 217 at the end of season as the only overnight guests in the entire hotel. It’s said that the unique and eerie experience left King with the premise of his book, The Shining , mapped out in his head by morning.

Fun Fact: Despite Stephen King’s wishes, The Shining was not filmed at The Stanley Hotel.   

You can spend the night here, even in King’s Room 217! Be warned, it books out far in advance, but it’s undoubtedly one of the coolest things to do in Estes Park.  

Guests not staying the night are welcome to stop by for a self-guided tour around the property or to pop into one of the restaurants or bars.

Additionally, the hotel hosts a number of fun special events and tours, such as their popular ghost tours.

Parking is $10 for visitors not spending the night.

Go For A Stroll Along The Estes Park Riverwalk

Estes Park is built on the Big Thompson River and Fall River. The waterways wind through the downtown area, which adds an undeniable charm to this already adorable town.

Grab a coffee and enjoy a quiet morning alongside the river in the downtown area. Or, if your lodging is on the river, create a “riverwalk” in your own backyard.

Personally, this is one of my favorite things to do in Estes Park. 

Tip: Early morning and late evenings are a great time time to spot wildlife near the river.   

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park’s famous neighbor, Rocky Mountain National Park, is consistently among the most visited national parks in the US. With its stunning viewpoints, ample hiking trails, and an abundance of wildlife, it’s easy to understand why. 

When visiting Estes Park, it’s likely you’ll be spending at least one day in this famous national park.

What to do varies widely depending on how much time you have to explore. If you only have one day, I’d suggest doing a hike such as Dream Lake & Emerald Lake, then driving a portion of the gorgeous Trail Ridge Road. 

Tip: Be sure to pack layers, the park’s high elevations will be much colder (and more windy!) than in town. 

During peak season, timed-entry reservations are required and must be purchased in advance. They go fast! So prepare for this well ahead of time. Secure your timed-entry reservation at: Timed Entry Reservations RMNP .

Below is some more information about hikes in RMNP and driving Trail Ridge Road.

But, for lots more information, check out my complete guides:

• Rocky Mountain National Park: One Day Guide
• Best Rocky Mountain National Park Tours
• West Side Of RMNP: Top Things To Do

Hike In Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park has over 300 miles of trails offering incredible views. Which hike’s for you is contingent on your skill level and allowed time.

Alberta Falls, Bear Lake, Dream & Emerald Lakes, and Glacier Gorge Trail are popular and relatively easy nature trails for first time visitors.

Advanced hikers check out Chasm Lake, Sky Pond, Bear Lake to Fern Lake Trailhead, or Lake Haiyaha. 

Whether you’re embarking on an easy or difficult hike, I recommend beginning your day early, no later than 8 or 9 am. Popular park trails get very crowded as the day progresses and afternoon storms are common in summer. 

Drive Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is one of the highest elevation roads in North America, crossing the Continental Divide and topping out over 12,000 feet above sea level. The views along this scenic and historic byway are simply incredible!

Trail Ridge Road runs for 48 miles, ending at the park’s west entrance, where you’ll have to turn around and return to Estes Park. The drive requires at least 2 – 3 hours.

If you’re short on time, I recommend driving to the Alpine Visitor Center and turning around from there. This is the highest elevation Visitor Center in the National Park System. Plus, it’s a great spot to walk around, have a snack, and use the restroom.

Due to extreme weather at this elevation, the road is only open seasonally, typically Memorial Day – early fall, and can close at any time. 

If planning to visit Grand Lake, at Rocky Mountain National Park’s west entrance, check out my Grand Lake Guide: Best Things To Do In Grand Lake, Colorado .

Visit Estes Park Museum 

Estes Park is unique in that its history doesn’t revolve around the mining industry, as most Colorado mountain towns do.

Estes Park was a popular vacation destination in the early 1900’s thanks to incredible mountain views and Rocky Mountain National Park, which was officially established in 1915. 

This small museum details the history of the Estes Park area, including the Native Americans who lived here long before the town existed. The museum is located just a few minutes from downtown and is free for visitors. This is a great place to spend an afternoon indoors in Estes Park.

They also offer free walking tours of downtown, check out information at: Free Walking Tours Estes Park

Additional Museums In Estes Park

Interesting in visiting more museums in Estes Park? Check out these additional options:

• MacGregor Ranch Museum & Homestead
• Stanley Home Museum & Education Center
• Historic Fall River Hydroplant

Estes Park Memorial Observatory

• Lula W. Dorsey Museum

Watch For Wildlife In Estes Park

Estes Park is known for its large population of elk and deer. These migratory animals head to higher elevations, such as Rocky Mountain National Park, in the summer months. Therefore, they’re most commonly spotted in town during fall and winter.

The region is also home to moose, black bears, bobcats, and mountain lions — although it’s unlikely to spot any.

Wildlife sightings will require some luck, but you have the best chance around dawn or dusk and near water sources.

Attend Elk Fest & Witness The Elk Rut

Elk Fest is an annual celebration of the town’s elk population. Held every fall, usually late September or early October, the festival features a range of activities and events which offer an opportunity to learn more about these amazing animals.

Highlights include educational seminars, traditional Native American dancing and storytelling, arts, local vendors, live music, and a beer garden.

If you can’t attend the festival, you can still catch the rut.

The elk rut, or mating season, runs from about mid-September through mid-October. The season is characterized by large congregations of elk, the sounds of their bugling, and male bulls fighting (literally) for the females. 

Since this happens at lower elevations, it’s common to see the spectacle just outside of town, even downtown at times. Witnessing this is something you’ll never forget. Elk are some of the largest mammals in the United States, with males weighing in at 700 lbs and standing up to 9 feet tall. Be sure to keep your distance!

Tip: If you plan to visit during the rut, you will need to book accommodations well in advance. This is one of the busiest seasons in Estes Park. 

Additional Festivals & Events In Estes Park

While Elk Fest is definitely one of the most popular celebrations in Estes Park, there are many exciting festivals throughout the year.

Below 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

Chapel On The Rock

Chapel on the Rock is an active Catholic church located just under 20 minutes from Estes Park. The photogenic structure was completed in 1936 but the idea was conceived in 1916 by Monsignor Joseph Bosetti. He was inspired by Matthew 16:19, which states, “Upon this rock I will build my church.”

Remarkably, this historic landmark still stands today, after dodging near disaster in forms of fire and flood in the past decade.

It’s open to the public and free for visitors. The inside is really small but beautiful, and there’s a cafe next door for coffee following your visit.  

Performance Park Amphitheater

The Performance Park Amphitheater is an outdoor concert and entertainment venue located near downtown. It’s framed by a towering rock face and bordered by Fall River on two sides, a picture-perfect setting. 

The amphitheater is a popular destination for concerts, plays, movie screenings, and other events throughout the year.

During summer months, the amphitheater hosts a variety of popular events, including the annual Estes Park Jazz Festival and Summer Concert Series. 

Be sure to take a look at their performance schedule for a fun day or night out during your visit: Performance Park Amphitheater Schedule .

Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Take the 3.5 minute aerial tram to the top of Prospect Mountain, where there’s panoramic views, trails, and a cafe.

The historic tram was designed and built by Robert Heron and opened to the public in the summer of 1955. It’s still owned by his family today and has safely carried more than 3 million people to the summit of Prospect Mountain.

Tip: This is one you’ll want to do early, the tram gets very crowded as the day progresses. 

The tram is only open during summer and may close at any time due to weather, including high wind. Hours and operating schedules vary, find more information at Estes Park Aerial Tramway .

Take An Art Class

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Estes Park, consider taking an art class at Inspired Artisan Market & Studio.

Art classes can evoke creativity and provide a fun and relaxing experience for all ages. Inspired Artisan offers a huge variety of classes, such as acrylic pour painting, alcohol ink landscape, metal embossing, and more.

The classes make for a unique souvenir to bring home, or are simply a fun way to spend an afternoon indoors.

Check pricing and availability for their most popular classes in the links below:

• Acrylic Pour Painting Class
• Create Your Own Hydro Dipped Tumbler or Mug
• Alcohol Ink Landscape Art Class
• Metal Embossing Class

Or head on over to Inspired Artisan Market & Studio for a full list of available classes.

Tip: Art-lovers will also enjoy the Art Center of Estes Park.

Catch A Film At Historic Park Theatre 

While you’re downtown, be sure to check out one of the oldest running cinemas in the United States, Historic Park Theatre.

The theater was built in 1913, and his been in operation ever since.

Today you can watch new releases, classic films, and documentaries in the well-preserved historic building. 

River Rafting

While Estes Park is surrounded by rivers, you may be surprised to learn they aren’t great for rafting. If you’re interested in white water rafting, you’ll want to head to the Cache La Poudre River, about an hour north of Estes Park, near Fort Collins.

The Poudre River offers rapids ranging from mild Class I to wild and turbulent Class IV.

A few companies to consider booking through are:

• A1 Wildwater
• A Wanderlust Adventure
• Mountain Whitewater

If you’re visiting from out of town and wish to have the full Rocky Mountain experience, a river rafting trip is a must on your itinerary!

Note: You can also go white water rafting on the Colorado River, located about two hours away. There are many popular tour companies based in Idaho Springs.

Drive The Peak To Peak Scenic Byway

The Peak to Peak Byway is a stunning scenic drive near Estes Park that offers sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains.

The National Scenic Byway — Colorado’s first scenic byway! — spans 55 miles between Estes Park and I-70, near Clear Creek Canyon and Black Hawk.

This road winds its way through a landscape of evergreen forests, rivers, pristine mountain lakes, and spectacular, snow-capped peaks.

The drive requires about 2 hours in each direction without stops. This is a great activity for those wishing to explore the area surrounding Estes Park.

Horseback Riding

For those who love to explore the great outdoors on horseback, Estes Park is a great destination. Located near Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers some of the most stunning scenery in Colorado.

Here riders can admire incredible mountain vistas from secluded trails or iconic views from RMNP.

For horseback riding in Estes Park, check out National Park Gateway Stables or The Meeker Park Lodge .

Open Air Adventure Park

The Open Air Adventure Park is an exciting facility with various obstacles, such as zip lines, rope bridges, aerial tightropes, and more.

It’s especially great for older kids and teenagers, but is designed to be accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Courses and challenges range in difficulty from beginner to expert. This is definitely among the most fun things to do in Estes Park!

Open Air Adventure Park also offers axe throwing and kayaking tours.

Visiting Estes Park with kids? You may also like Fun City, a small amusement park with tons of kid-friendly activities, like slides and bumper boats.

Visit A Brewery, Winery, Or Distillery

Colorado is well known for its breweries, so grabbing a local craft beer is a must for many visiting the state. Luckily, Estes Park has lots of good options!

Below are some of the best breweries in Estes Park:

• Estes Park Brewery
• Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
• Rock Cut Brewing Company
• Avant Garde Aleworks
• The Post Chicken & Beer

Rather visit a local winery or distiller instead? Check out these popular options:

• Snowy Peaks Winery
• Elkins Distilling Co. & Tasting Room
• Estes Park Distilling Co.

Whether visiting a local brewery, winery, or distillery, be sure to keep an eye on each business’ event calendar. Most offer special entertainment, such as bingo night, trivia night, or live music.

Can’t decide which local business you’d like to support? Check out the The Barrel, which carries local and national craft beers and spirits.

KMAC Guides

KMAC Guides (formerly Kent Mountain Adventure Center) is an outdoor adventure company that offers a wide range of guided outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mountaineering, hiking, and snowshoeing. The center was founded in 1987 and has since become a popular resource for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

One of the center’s main draws is its rock climbing programs and via ferratas, which offer courses for beginners and advanced climbers alike. The center’s experienced guides lead climbers through various routes in stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, providing safety instruction and coaching along the way.

In addition to rock climbing, KMAC also offers guided hikes and mountaineering trips, including summit attempts of Longs Peak, the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.

If visiting Estes Park in winter, they also offers snowshoeing adventures, allowing visitors to explore the park’s snowy landscapes in a unique way.

Wildlife Tour

As mentioned previously, Estes Park is teeming with wildlife. Elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and mule deer are commonly spotted in the surrounding area. If you wish to get off the beaten track and witness these incredible animals without all the crowds, consider a private wildlife tour.

Full and half day tours are available year-round. This is the perfect Estes Park activity for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers.

Check Pricing & Availability For RMNP Wildlife Tour

Golf In Estes Park

Estes Park is a great destination for golf enthusiasts. It provides two fun courses with stunning mountain views at every turn.

Estes Park Golf Course is an 18-hole course located on the eastern outskirts of Estes Park. It offers stunning views of Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains, with the course featuring a range of challenges for visitors.

Estes Park Golf Course has a driving range, putting green, and chipping area. Plus a clubhouse with award-winning restaurant and pro shop.

Lake Estes 9-Hole Golf Course is located in the heart of Estes Park, just a few blocks from downtown. The course is designed for golfers of all levels, and features a scenic layout with views of Lake Estes and the surrounding mountains.

Lake Estes Golf Course has a putting green, disc golf course, and pro shop.

Both courses are open seasonally, roughly April – October. Additionally, you’ll need to keep an eye out for wildlife on both courses.

E-Bike Tour Of Estes Park

If you’d like to see some of Estes Park’s highlights with a guide consider an e-bike tour.

The ease and efficiency of an e-bike allows visitors to take in popular sites, such as the Stanley Hotel, riverwalk, and Lake Estes Marina, all while learning town history from an experienced tour guide.

This 2 hour guided electric bike tour is a great way to get to know Estes Park: Estes Park E-Bike Tour Pricing & Availability

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is an astronomical observatory located near town, just off Lake Estes.

The observatory houses a computer-controlled telescope, which is used for observing a variety of celestial objects, including planets and galaxies. The telescope is housed in a rotating dome that allows for easy access to different areas of the sky.

In addition to the telescope, the observatory also features a classroom and a workshop area with displays and exhibits on astronomy and space exploration.

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is open to the public on select nights throughout the year, capacity is very limited and reservations are required. They also host special events, such as stargazing parties, lectures, and workshops.

Find more information at Estes Park Memorial Observatory .

ATVing In Estes Park

ATVing is a popular outdoor activity in Estes Park that allows visitors to explore the beautiful Rocky Mountain landscapes in an unconventional way.

Roosevelt National Forest and Arapaho National Forest both have a variety of trails that offer beautiful views and fun routes.

Several companies in Estes Park offer ATV rentals for visitors who want to explore the surrounding trails on their own. Some popular rental companies include Backbone Adventures and Estes Park ATV Rentals .

For those who want a more structured and informative experience, guided ATV tours are also available through Backbone Adventures . These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who take visitors on designated trails and provide information on the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.

Fishing is among the most popular things to do in Estes Park thanks to the area’s pristine lakes and streams.

Popular fishing destinations in Estes Park include the Big Thompson River, Fall River, and Lake Estes. These sources are home to a variety of fish species, including trout and walleye.

For those new to fishing or wanting to learn about the area’s best spots, guided fishing tours are available. For those who’d prefer to go on their own, there are several outfitters and equipment rental companies in Estes Park.

There are numerous bait and tackle shops in Estes Park. Below are a few options:

• Kirks Fly Shop
• Estes Angler
• Fly Fish Estes Park
• Lost Outfitters
• Fly Fishing The Rocky Mountains

Please be aware, Colorado has strict fishing regulations, including catch and release rules, set by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department. Additionally, a Colorado fishing license is required for those over the age of 16.

Day Trips From Estes Park

If time permits, consider a day trip from Estes Park.

Estes Park is surrounded by ample natural beauty and is just a short distance from many charming mountain towns.

Below are a few of the most popular day trips from Estes Park:

• Central City & Blackhawk
• Fort Collins

Getting To Estes Park

Denver International Airport – This is the nearest major airport to Estes Park, located 1.5 hours away. From the airport you can rent a car or arrange a shuttle to Estes Park.

Looking for cheap flights? Be sure to sign up for  Going to get low-cost flight alerts delivered right to your inbox. It’s a  free  service I’ve used for years and couldn’t recommend more. 

Downtown Denver to Estes Park – 1 hour, 30 minutes (66 miles) Colorado Springs to Estes Park – 2 hours, 50 minutes (133 miles)

When driving from Denver or Colorado Springs, you’ll take I-25 to Highway 36 or I-25 to Highway 34. 

How To Get Around Estes Park

A car is best in Estes Park, especially if you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s possible to walk a good portion of downtown Estes Park. Additionally, public transportation and ride share are available but limited.

Where To Stay in Estes Park

Estes Park has tons of lodging options, most of which are small hotels, cabins, or Airbnb/ VRBO rentals. You will find very few chain hotels here. 

Stephen King fans will recognize the world famous (and supposedly haunted) Stanley Hotel , which inspired the author to write The Shining .

For those who prefer non-haunted lodging, or those simply looking to stay at a cabin on the river, check out my complete guide: Best Estes Park Cabins On The River .

Summer in Estes Park is mild with temperatures in the mid to upper 70°F’s and lows into the 50°F’s. Afternoon thunderstorms are brief but common. Lightning is the biggest risk this time of year, especially at higher elevations. 

Fall can vary a bit, September still sees highs in the 70°F’s and lows into the 40°F’s. Whereas October and November begin to drop into the 50°F’s and 40°F’s with lows into the 30°F’s and 20°F’s. Snow is possible this time of year.

Winter sees highs in the 30°F’s and lows into the teens. Snow is common. 

Spring stays chilly with highs in the mid 40°F’s and 50°F’s and lows into the 20°F’s. March and April are the snowiest months in Estes Park. During late spring, snow may begin to melt at lower elevations, but not yet at higher elevations.

No matter the season, know that Estes Park can be very windy. 

Estes Park Elevation

Estes Park is located 7,523 feet above sea level. 

At this elevation altitude sickness is possible. This is characterized by headaches, dizziness, nausea, and loss of breath. It may take days for your symptoms to subside if you’re not able to get to a lower elevation.

If concerned that you may be affected by this, spend a day or two in Denver before heading to Estes Park. This will give your body some time to acclimate to the new altitude. Additionally, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, smoking, and strenuous exercise. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and as you can see, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Estes Park. You’re sure to have the best time.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below.

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy on Instagram or  @seenbyamy on TikTok !

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Colorado guides or head on over to Visit Estes Park !

More Information For Your Estes Park Vacation:

• Estes Park In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Estes Park: Best Cabins On The River
• Rocky Mountain National Park In Fall: Best Things To Do
• Rocky Mountain National Park In Winter: The Best Things To Do
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Best Tours
• West Side Of Rocky Mountain National Park: Top Things To Do
• Grand Lake: The Best Things To Do
• Grand Lake: Best Cabins For Rent

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation – In The Mountains:

• Boulder: What To Do With One Day Here
• Steamboat Springs: Things To Do During Summer
• Strawberry Hot Springs: Everything You Need To Know
• Aspen: Things To Do In Fall
• Ouray, CO: Top Things To Do In Summer
• Durango: Top Things To Do In Summer
• Telluride: Things To Do In The Summer
• Vail: The Best Things To Do In The Summer
• Magical Winter Destinations In Colorado
• Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway: Everything To Know
• 10 Day Colorado National Park Road Trip

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation – In The City:

• Denver: 3 Day Weekend Guide
• Denver: What To Do With 24 Hours In Denver
• Denver: Most Popular Day Trips
• Colorado Springs: Top Things To Do

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

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22 Best Things to Do in Estes Park in 2023 [by a local]

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

In the north central part of Colorado sits Estes Park at an elevation of 7,500 feet. 

It is well known for being the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and home to the historic (and haunted!) Stanley Hotel. 

Besides RMNP right next door, Estes Park is also known for several other destinations. Many of which we explored during our latest trip to the city.

This includes Lake Estes, the quaint downtown area, plus the herds and herds of elk that occupy the city during rutting season.

The population of Estes Park is only around 6,000 people. So, it’s easy to feel outnumbered by the hundreds of elk that pass through each year. 

And because of its proximity to Colorado’s Front Range , Estes Park is an easy destination to travel to, no matter where you’re coming from! 

During our recent trip to this small mountain town, we discovered some local favorites and hidden gems.

Here are our top recommendations for things to do in Estes Park, Colorado as shared by a Colorado local. 

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re visiting from Denver, we highly recommend this all-day Rocky Mountain National Park adventure .

The tour starts at Denver’s Union Station and then heads north through Boulder.

Along the way you’ll see epic views of Longs Peak, pass through Estes Park and up Trail Ridge Road.

A professional driver and guide will escort you for 3 hours inside RMNP so you can explore the gorgeous scenery.

A tour of Rocky Mountain National Park includes 8 hours of driving and bottled water, but you will have to pay for your own lunch.

With nearly 2,000 five star reviews , this day trip allows you to see the beauty of Colorado’s rugged mountains. Plus, you could see wildlife like elk, black bear, or moose.

Book a Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park 🤩 5/5 stars (1900+ reviews)

2. Watch the Sunrise

If a day hike isn’t your thing, consider watching the sunrise over Rocky Mountain National Park with your friends and family instead.

Get into the park early to avoid the crowds and learn about the area’s history and biology from an expert guide.

During this 3-hour tour you’ll get to watch an early morning sunrise, find the best places to hike, see wildlife and take epic photos.

The cost of the tour includes entrance fees, your Rocky Mountain National Park Reservation, and private transport from Estes Park.

Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans while visiting Estes Park change.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking experience of Rocky Mountain National Park without all the crowds, check out this Sunrise Tour.

Watch the Sunrise near Estes Park 🤩 5/5 stars (10+ reviews)

3. Estes Park Lower Valley

Explore Estes Park’s stunning landscape on this 3-4 hour tour of Lower Valley . 

Meet up at the Estes Park Visitors Center to connect with your local guide. Then it’s off to explore areas like Sheep Lakes and Moraine Park.

Along the tour you’ll see native wildlife and stunning alpine views all from the comfort of your own car.

Learn about the area’s ecology from your tour guide and enjoy several stops along the way for information and photos.

If you’re looking for a relaxed tour where you can drive around viewing the Estes Park scenery, check out this Lower Valley Tour.

It’s the perfect tour for families with older adults or small children. Plus, you don’t have to worry about heights or exerting yourself at high altitude.

Take a Tour of Lower Valley RMNP 🤩 5/5 stars (70+ reviews)

4. Estes Park E-Bike Tour

Explore the entire downtown Estes Park area year-round thanks to this electric bike tour .

This 2-hour tour starts near the Stanley Hotel and six stops at historic landmarks and destinations, like the Lake Estes Marina and the Riverwalk.

You’ll be able to enjoy a scenic drive through town as well as stopping to capture gorgeous photos.

You and your group will be provided with a comfortable electric bike, bottled water, and safety equipment.

Join knowledgeable guides as cruise through town at an easy pace, all while being able to avoid the crowds.

An E-bike tour is a great way to see all of the beautiful sights that Estes Park has to offer without a lot of effort.

Try an E-Bike Tour of Estes Park 🤩 5/5 stars (great for small groups)

5. Acrylic Painting Class

If the weather is too cold or rainy while in Estes Park, consider attending an Acrylic Painting Class . 

Join a small group at a local painting studio and leave with a beautiful piece of art to commemorate your trip.

Every painting workshop includes all the painting tools you need plus a canvas you can take home. 

You’ll learn how to pour paint in a specific way that creates beautiful, abstract art.

The class is about an hour long and is meant for small groups or couples. Several of the 5-star reviews say it’s a great activity for kids and teens especially.

What could be more fun than learning a new art medium while on vacation?

Check out their website to learn more about this Acrylic Painting Class in Estes Park.

Book an Acrylic Painting Class 🤩 4.5/5 stars (30+ reviews)

6. Ink Landscape Art Class

Another way to take a break from all of your outdoor adventures is by booking a fun Ink Landscape Art Class in Estes Park.

Join a professional instructor as you learn the art of working with alcohol ink to create beautiful kaleidoscope designs.

It’s like watercolors but an easier medium to play around with! Located on Moraine Avenue, this class is designed to help get your creative juices flowing.

It lasts for about 90 minutes and includes all of the art supplies, paint, and other tools you need to create a masterpiece.

An ink art class like this is a fun way to capture the beauty of the Colorado landscape to display in your home for years to come.

Try an Ink Landscape Class 🤩 5/5 stars (low price guarantee)

Elk and Estes Park are synonymous with each other. The town even has a festival dedicated to Elk that they put on every year, called ElkFest .

ElkFest always falls during rutting season for the elk, which is usually late September through early October. 

The weekend festival features live bands, Native American storytelling & dancing, food and a bugling contest. 

Even outside of rutting season and ElkFest , it’s not uncommon to see herds of elk gather in the center of town, or in a golf course meadow. 

During our recent trip, elk were all over the town day and night. There wasn’t a place you could go in the town without spotting elk. 

We could even hear them doing their wailing bugle all night long from our hotel room.

Keep in mind that despite the benign surroundings, these are wild animals that can act unpredictably or become spooked easily. 

The bulls are juiced up on testosterone and can get pretty territorial about their herd. So, we suggest giving them room when taking photos!

8. The Birch Ruins

The Birch Ruins sits right in the center of town located atop the (now) Knoll-Willows Open Space.

Initially the Birch Bungalow was built for the editor of the Denver Post, Albert Birch, as a summer home. 

But after it burned down in December of 1907 Mr. Birch decided to build a smaller cabin at the bottom of the hill, closer to shops and amenities.

The remnants of both buildings are still there today and can be toured and explored by the public.

You can access the Birch Ruins from MacGregor Avenue or Elkhorn Avenue, the town’s main street. 

Free parking is available at many of the local businesses nearby or in the Estes Valley Library parking lot.

Once you reach the top you’ll be able to walk amongst the ruins of the original Bungalow that was built there. 

You’ll even see Longs Peak in the distance! This quick and easy hike rewards you with outstanding views of the city of Estes Park below.

And since the hike up is less than half a mile long, it’s good for most skill levels, although it can get steep towards the top.

During rutting season it’s likely that you will see lots of Elk and maybe even a bear or two.

9. Estes Park Downtown & Riverwalk

The Riverwalk cuts through downtown Estes Park and follows along the Big Thompson River.

It starts at the Estes Park Visitor Center and continues west as it winds through the downtown shops and restaurants.

The rock-paved pathway takes you across several bridges with lots of benches and scenic outlooks. 

The Riverwalk is a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the sounds of the river.

Many shops and restaurants are located right on the Riverwalk so riverside dining and shopping is common.

Our favorite thing is to grab a cup of coffee , sit on a nearby bench and watch the clear water go by.

Along the Riverwalk you’ll also see bronze animal sculptures and beautiful rock water features.

Nearly anytime of year you can expect to see an abundance of wildlife with elk wandering the streets of downtown.

10. Estes Park Visitor Center

Speaking of the Visitor Center, this is one stop you don’t want to miss on your visit to Estes Park.

Right next to the visitor center is a well-kept golf course and the start of the Lake Estes Trail.

The unique thing about this golf course is that it’s one of the main meadows that herds of elk like to graze in during rutting season.

If you’ve ever seen a photo of elk in Estes Park, it’s mostly likely from this golf course meadow location!

The Estes Park Visitor Center is open year round and offers a multi-story parking garage with free parking for visitors.

Park and take photos of the elk nearby, or use it as your home base for strolling along the Riverwalk.

The Visitor Center is also the hub for all six seasonal free Town of Estes Park shuttle routes .

To plan your stay in Estes Park, be sure to grab one of the official trip guides and check out the Events calendar.

11. The Stanley Hotel

Located just north of downtown is The Stanley Estate which is home to the famous Stanley Hotel .

Built in 1909 this expansive 100+ year old estate offers gorgeous views of the Colorado mountains and overlooks Rocky Mountain National Park.

On the grounds you’ll find several restaurants, a whiskey bar, and a gorgeous patio. Plus, you can get fresh jams, ciders, and spreads from the Colorado Cherry Company .

Tours are offered daily where you can learn about the history of the estate and original owner, F. O. Stanley. The family even has their own cemetery lot on the estate.

The tour also includes the history of Stephen King and his haunted tellings of the Stanley that helped him write his book, The Shining .

One of the most popular annual events is the “Shining Ball” Halloween party. It features elaborate costumes, live music, decorations, and delicious food.

Attendees have said it’s like stepping into a real-life horror film!

In less than 2 hours from Denver you can book a memorable vacation, special event, or anniversary trip at the historic Stanley Hotel.

12. Lake Estes

On the way into Estes Park you will drive over Lake Estes , which only adds to the already gorgeous city landscape.

This man-made lake sits near the center of town and offers 4 miles of shoreline for various water activities. 

In the 1940s the Olympus Dam led to the creation of the lake, and today it’s all fed from the Big Thompson River.

Fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking and boating are popular activities on the lake.

And the Lake Estes Marina offers rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoon boats.

You can enjoy a stroll around the lake on the aptly-named Lake Estes Trail, which is a nice 3.75 mile loop.

You can also rent a bike from the marina, or bring your own to cycle around the lake.

With Colorado being one of the driest states in the country, finding any amount of water within city limits of any town is a real rarity. 

It even passes through the towns of Black Hawk and Central City which are both old mining towns turned-casino destinations.

This area has been previously nicknamed “the richest square mile on earth”.

13. Estes Park Museum

If you’re curious about the history and culture of the local region, then you’ll want to check out the Estes Park Museum. 

On display in the museum’s extensive catalog are more than 30,000 different items including postcards, photographs, tools and furniture.

The Estes Park Museum has been in operation for more than 50 years. It has a number of historic structures that have been preserved that you can visit.

Included with your visit is a video that details a fascinating overview of the town’s history.

Then it’s time to peruse the artifacts and exhibits through the incorporation of the town in 1917.

Not only that, but you’ll be able to discover information about more recent history of the town and the regional area, including a series of floods.

The Estes Park Museum also runs an interpretive center at the Historic Fall River Hydroplant which was originally constructed to power the Stanley Hotel in 1909.

14. Estes Park Aerial Tramway

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway was designed and built by Robert Heron and was opened to the public in July 1955.

The unique thing about this specific Tramway is the design. 

It does not require any towers to support the wire ropes. And it’s a free span from the bottom to the top stations.

A free span Tramway is a fairly uncommon design in the United States, so this design affords a uniquely smooth ride up Prospect Mountain.

Since opening in 1955 the Estes Park Aerial Tramway has carried more than 3 million people to the summit of Prospect Mountain.

And to this day, the Tramway is owned and operated by the Heron family!

Please note that the Estes Park Aerial Tramway is generally only open for the spring and summer months. It is closed during the winter season.

15. Open Air Adventure Park

The Open Air Adventure Park is one of the top things to do in Estes Park for adrenaline junkies. 

And there’s something for every age thanks to more than 30 different challenges and skill abilities.

And at this Adventure Park you control the experience by customizing the challenges you choose.

From tightrope walking, ziplining, and obstacle courses, the Open Air Adventure Park has you covered.

Included with your ticket is expert staff to teach you all the safety measures, with access to extensive safety gear. 

Their goal is to make sure you have a fun but safe adventure during your visit to Estes Park.

This too is more of a spring, summer, and fall activity in Estes Park as the Open Air Adventure Park is closed during winter.

16. MacGregor Ranch Museum

Take a step back in time at the MacGregor Ranch Museum located in the beautiful Black Canyon Creek area of Estes Park. 

The old west and the cowboy lifestyle have been part of Colorado’s history for decades.  

And the MacGregor Ranch Museum offers a glimpse into what life was like for past generations.

Built in 1873, the ranch was started by the MacGregor family and was passed down through three generations. 

Guided tours are available to explore the grounds and see what life was like on the Open Range. 

The main house where the MacGregor’s lived is now a museum. It houses a unique collection of original furnishings and historic memorabilia. 

After Alexander MacGregor, the founder of the ranch, died in 1896 his son Donald took over. 

Donald was the one who adopted the horse-drawn machinery to make hay. More than a century later, this is the method still used today at the Ranch. 

Estes Park sits in the heart of the Rocky Mountains just 90 miles northwest of Denver. 

It offers lots of free and cheap things to do and is home to 300 miles of hiking trails and open spaces. 

Not to mention it’s the backdoor to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

17. Sledding

During the winter, Colorado mountain towns really come alive. And one of the best things to do in Estes Park is take the whole family sledding .

And the best part is that you don’t need any special skiing or snowboarding skills as sledding is easily accessible for everyone, even beginners.

You’ll meet up with an expert guide and then head to the old Hidden Valley Ski Resort, which has been turned into a designated sledding zone.

You and your loved ones will spend about 3 hours sledding, racing down the hill, and generally having fun in the snow.

Included with the cost of your ticket is a Rocky Mountain National Park pass, use of sleds, and 2-way radios to communicate with your guide.

A sledding trip is a perfect activity for your whole family to enjoy in Estes Park in the winter. Plus, you can avoid the more crowded touristy locations.

Learn more about booking a Hidden Valley Sledding Tour .

18. Estes Park Peak to Peak Highway 

From Estes Park to I-70 is the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway , which is about a 3 hour drive with beautiful stops along the way.

Established in 1918 this is Colorado’s first and oldest scenic byway and makes a great day trip from Estes Park.

There are few gold mines along the way that allow for public gold panning in the creeks, which is a common activity for kids especially.

The route stretches 55 miles, beginning at CO Highway 7 in Estes Park then turns south to Allenspark. Then the drive heads onto Nederland and through Clear Creek Canyon then down to I-70.

The Peak to Peak Highway is especially lovely to take as a fall drive during autumn . This is when the leaves turn different colors of yellow, gold and red.

19. Enos Mills Cabin Museum

Throughout his life, Enos A. Mills advocated for environmental studies and preservation. As an American naturalist, he was deeply passionate about nature. 

In fact, Enos Mills has a fascinating history that led him to being one of the country’s leading proponents in the creation of Rocky Mountain National Park. Which is the 10th national park in America. 

Because of this, Enos Mills is considered the “Father of Rocky Mountain National Park”. And the Enos Mills Cabin Museum is dedicated to his life and his preservation efforts.

The cabin and other rustic structures that exist on the property are open to tour. You can enjoy a walk around the original homestead and see the original cabin as well as local plantlife. 

The museum takes about 90 minutes to explore with lots of displays for visitors to read and learn. 

The property that Enos Mills Cabin is set on is about 8 miles south of Estes Park and is run by two descendants of Mills.

20. Fern Lake Trail

The path up Fern Lake Trail is a beautiful 7.5 mile out-and-back hike. It is considered moderately challenging and will take about ~4 hours to complete. 

The trail resides inside of Rocky Mountain National Park so that means there will be a fee to enter . 

The best time to hike this trail is from late spring to mid autumn when you can witness the spring melt.

In the summer this trail is lined with lush wildflowers and in the fall the mountainside is ablaze with color from the trees changing. 

Parking at Fern Lake Trailhead is possible if you get there particularly early or plan for a weekday hike. Otherwise there is the option to take the free hiker shuttles from Moraine Park Visitor Center. 

On your way to the lake, you will have an elevation gain of 1,400 feet over the 7.5 mile trail. It’s not uncommon to see other hikers along this trail but it is still a less traveled path than some of the more popular hikes within RMNP. 

Along the trail, you will pass through mixed forests, past the former Fern Lake Backcountry Patrol Cabin and along the Big Thompson River.

21. Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Colorado is well-known for its abundance of star-gazing opportunities and the Estes Park Memorial Observatory takes full advantage of this.

This local attraction is somewhat of a hidden gem and offers the community of Estes Park an educational and fun resource.

Inside the observatory you’ll find knowledgeable staff, loads of educational information, and private or public viewing events.

The center also showcases lectures involving astronomy, cosmology, and even astrophotography.

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is located at 1500 Manford Avenue and is currently open 4 nights per week.

22. Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

As the headquarters for Rocky Mountain National Park, the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center first opened in 1967. The center is open year-round with shorter hours in the winter months.

Upon arriving here, there are a surprising amount of things to do. Start by watching a short orientation film of the park then plan your drive or hike from one of the ranger-recommended maps.

Inside the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center you’ll also find the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store. Here you can bring a little bit of RMNP home with you in the form of books, shirts, games, and more.

The visitor center is also a great place to stop for snacks, a bathroom break, or to grab a souvenir.

Along the west side of the parking lot you and your party will have unobstructed views of Longs Peak and other towering Rocky Mountains.

Plus, a fun fact about the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is that it was designed in the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture style.

Estes Park truly does not disappoint as a mountain town resort area, no matter what time of year you choose to visit.

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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Things To Do in Estes Park, CO and the Surrounding Area

Published: Jun 10, 2023 · Modified: Sep 4, 2024 by RebeccaBlackwell · This post may contain affiliate links

I grew up in Colorado in a family that had called the state home for 5 generations by the time I came along. Throughout my childhood, I don’t think there was a single summer without at least one visit to Estes Park. My grandparents loved the town so much that they retired there, and my 70-year-old grandfather built their house with his own hands.

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After that, the town became a year-round destination for our family. Years later, my aunt and uncle moved there, where they reside to this day.

So, it's safe to say that I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Estes Park over the years. It’s a truly charming mountain town in Northern Colorado resting at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Despite its popularity with humans, the area is also home to a lot of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see a herd of elk on the golf course or walking through town, holding up traffic like they own the place. Which, of course, they do.

The town is also central to Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest and less than 90 minutes outside the Denver metro area making it a popular destination for Colorado residents and out-of-state visitors alike.

Estes Park has always been a popular place to visit, especially in the summer, but over the years its popularity has grown substantially. The town has less than 6,000 residents, but Rocky Mountain National Park draws over 4 million visitors every year. Since the National Park’s main entrance is just 4 miles from Estes Park, most Park visitors use Estes as their base.

This is a double-edged sword. Because it’s such a popular tourist destination, you'll find shops, restaurants, adventure parks, equipment rentals, and other fun activities and attractions that wouldn't be there otherwise. But also, as with any popular tourist destination, Estes Park is busy! It’s important to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting during the town’s busiest months.

There’s so much to do and see in Estes Park and the surrounding areas. What follows is by no means an exhaustive list. But if you've never visited the area, or haven't spent much time there, I hope you'll find plenty of ideas and recommendations to make your next trip to Estes memorable.

Estes Park Fast Facts

First stop: the estes park visitors center, the stanley hotel, estes park memorial observatory, the estes park riverwalk, fun city and open air adventure park, horseback riding, kent mountain adventure center, where to eat and drink in estes park, rocky mountain national park, lyons, colorado, trail ridge road, the peak to peak highway.

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Estes Park is most often referred to as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. The main entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park is located just 4 miles west of downtown Estes Park on Highway 36, which is also one of the town's main roads. Aside from being a place to pass through on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a quintessential Colorado mountain town with wildlife, opportunities for outdoor adventure, and the shops, restaurants, and overnight accommodations you’d expect from a popular tourist destination.

July, August, and September are the most popular months to visit Estes Park because that's the time of the year most amenable to warm weather outdoor activities. But the town is a year-round attraction. So, the best time of year to visit really depends on what you like to do. If hiking, biking, and kayaking are on your list, you’ll want to visit during the summer. If snowshoeing, skiing, ice skating, and whisky drinking are more your style, plan a trip between November and April.

If you only have one day in Estes Park, I’d suggest a visit to the Stanley Hotel for a tour and a cocktail on the historic patio and a walk down the Riverwalk with stops in a few shops, restaurants, and treat shops. Begin or end the day at Lake Estes where you can walk all the way around the lake or get out on the water. Check out the list of restaurant recommendations below for the best places to eat!

Things to Do In Estes Park

The Estes Park Visitors Center is a great place to gather information about restaurants and activities in the area. You'll find the visitor's center in the downtown area on Big Thompson Avenue. It's open year-round and the friendly staff can answer your questions and help with recommendations for everything from guided fly fishing to dog friendly hiking trails.

Stephen King fans will know the Stanley Hotel from his iconic novel The Shining . King's short stay at the hotel in 1974 provided inspiration for the novel and while the movie wasn’t filmed at The Stanley, the television adaption was.

But The Stanley Hotel has been an important part of Estes Park since it opened in 1909 and is known for more than inspiring a horror story. The 140-room hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes a restaurant, whisky bar, coffee and snack shop, spa, theater and concert venues, and a wide variety of accommodations for overnight guests. 

If you visit Estes Park, you won’t be able to miss the hotel. It sits on a hill overlooking the town and is visible from Downtown Estes Park. You do not have to be a guest to visit the hotel. Stop in and have a drink or a bite to eat, book a historic tour, or get tickets for a concert or event. There’s even an underground theater beneath the carriage house!

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory was founded by a retired astrophysicist who wanted to share their love of space with other people. Today the Observatory is a non-profit community resource that relies on donations and the generosity of volunteers to offer a host of educational opportunities for all ages.

You’ll find events here year-round and can schedule an observatory and stargazing visit from April through September.

If you come into Estes Park on highway 34 or 36, you’ll drive right by Lake Estes, a man-made lake created in 1949 by the Olympus Dam. The four-mile reservoir is surrounded by walking, biking, and picnic areas and offers several opportunities to get out on the water.

The lake is stocked with trout for fishing and throughout the summer you can take kayaks and paddle boards out on the water. Visit Lake Estes Marina to rent a pontoon boat, fishing boat, paddle boat, canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board, pedal cart, or bicycle. The marina is also where you can pick up a boating or parking permit, fishing license, or rent a picnic shelter.

If you choose to walk or bike the 3.73-mile Lake Estes Trail , you’ll see views of Pikes Peak and might encounter local wildlife from elk to bighorn sheep or even bears.

The Riverwalk is a paved trail that runs along the banks of the Big Thompson River. The Riverwalk is parallel to Elkhorn Avenue which is the main street that runs through downtown Estes Park. The trail is generally less crowded than Elkhorn Avenue but it still offers easy access to the shops and restaurants of downtown Estes.

The trail begins at the Estes Park Visitors Center. Along the way, you’ll find plant-filled plazas, bronze sculptures, and water features. On Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday evenings throughout the summer, you'll find a cowboy sing-along with local celebrity Cowboy Brad .

Popular shops and restaurants along the riverwalk include:

• Thirty Below Leather : a variety of leather goods that are all priced below $30
• The Wild Horse Gift Shop : a truly eclectic assortment of souvenirs
• Kind Coffee and Inkwell and Brew are popular coffee shops and worth the stop
• Poppy's Pizza and Grill : outdoor, riverside seating
• Mama Rose's Restaurant : Italian food with a river-side patio
• Casa Grande : Mexican Food and Margaritas with a river-side patio
• Stop in at The Spruce House and The Christmas Shop , two popular Christmas shops in Estes Park that are open year-round
• Three Blessed Gems is a small family-run jewelry store owned and operated by a mom and her two daughters.

Fun City , open from late May to September, was established in 1969 and is an Estes Park landmark. I have many memories of going down the colorful giant rainbow slide as a child. So fun! You’ll also find mini golf, a bungee trampoline, bumper boats, bumper cars, and go-carts. Young kids will have fun panning for gemstones, and older kids can walk on water inside giant water walking balls. You’ll also find carnival games, an arcade, and plenty of prizes. 

Open Air Adventure Park , open from late May through September, is an aerial adventure park where you can swing, climb, and maneuver through 32 aerial challenges. After completing the course and coming back down to earth, continue the fun with ax throwing and a kayak tour.

Head over to YMCA of the Rockies Livery/ Estes Park Center to find Jackson Stables where you can tour Rocky Mountain National Park on horseback. You’ll find hour-long rides and full-day adventures plus pony rides for the kids and horse-drawn hayrides in the fall. 

Jackson Stables is authorized by the National Park Service to offer trail rides in Rocky Mountain National Park. All of the horseback rides are guided trail rides on YMCA property and into RMNP but you will not need a YMCA membership to participate. 

Kent Mountain Adventure Center is a rock climbing and mountaineering school that offers educational programs and a wide variety of climbing and hiking instructions and tours for all skill levels. The center is open year round, providing opportunities for backpacking, canyoneering, ice climbing, skiing, split boarding, ski mountaineering, and snow shoeing.

Go jeeping through Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park with guided tours from Green Jeep Tours or Wild Side 4x4 tours . Or, rent a jeep or ATV at Backbone Adventures or Estes Park ATV Rentals and take off on your own for the day.

Breakfast: At The Eggs of Estes you'll find a huge menu with options ranging from a garden frittata and avocado toast to stacks of pancakes and french toast. Mountain Home Cafe is family owned and operated and includes a menu full of home cooked breakfast classics.

Lunch and Dinner: Favorite lunch spots include The Notchtop , Scratch Deli and Bakery , and Claire's Restaurant and Bar .

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern has delicious food, a fun, laid-back atmosphere, and live music every night. Smokin' Dave's BBQ and Brew has locations in both Estes Park and Lyons (scroll down for more about this must-visit town just 20 miles from Estes) and they are both worth a visit!

At Mama Rose's you'll find great Italian food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is located on the Riverwalk with outdoor seating. If you're in the mood for Mexican food, check out Ed's Cantina .

Hunters Chophouse is a casual but classy place to get a great steak and enjoy a drink or two from their whisky and wine bar. And for delicious vegan and vegetarian options, check out Himalayan Curry and Kebob .

Sweets and treats : There is no shortage of sweets and treats in Estes Park! When I was a child, no visit to Estes was complete without at least one giant caramel apple, and a bag of saltwater taffy and some chocolate fudge to take home. While you're there, stop by The Munchin House for ice cream, fudge and chocolates, and Laura's Fine Candy for caramel corn, toffee, and a huge variety of other chocolates and candies.

At The Taffy Shop you'll find dozens of flavors of saltwater taffy. And most days, you can stop and watch the taffy being made through the window! And don't forget to stop by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory , a chocolate lover's paradise!

Coffee shops: For coffee, tea, and all the delicious baked goods and little treats we love it small coffee shops, check out Coffee on the Rocks , and Kind Coffee .

Best places to grab a beer, glass or wine, or a cocktail: The American Legion in Estes Park is open to the public and the quintessential “neighborhood bar". You'll find friendly service, a great bar food menu, and awesome special events. The Barrell Beer, Wine and Spirits garden, Rock Cut Brewing Company , Elkins Distilling Company , and Snowy Peaks Winery .

If an authentic cowboy meal (smoked brisket, pulled pork, baked potato, baked beans, peach, biscuit and a brownie) followed by a western music show sound like great way to spend an evening, check out The Lazy B Chuckwagon and Show !

And of course, don't let your visit to Estes Park go by without enjoying a drink on the front porch of the Stanley Hotel . The menu is pricy, but the historic luxury of the experience is well worth it.

Annual Estes Park Events

• The Estes Park Wine Festival
• Vikings at Estes Park Midsummer Festival
• Scandinavian Midsummer Festival
• SnoweyGrass Music Festival
• The Fine Arts and Crafts Festival
• Labor Day Arts and Crafts Show
• The Estes Park Half Marathon
• The Annual Rooftop Rodeo
• The Annual John Denver Tribute Concert
• Pumpkins and Pilsners
• Long's Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival
• Rails in the Rockies
• Estes Park Whisky Warm Up

For more classes and events, check out the Estes Park events calendar .

Things to Do Near Estes Park

The forest canyon overlook.

The Forest Canyon Overlook is a short, easy .3-mile hike with an incredible view. At nearly 12,000 feet, you'll have a great view of the pools of the Gorge Lakes and the towering mountains of the Continental Divide.

Access the trail from Trail Ridge Road (see more about this iconic, must-see drive in the Scenic Drives section below). The walkway is accessible and the trail is easy enough for most ability levels. The overlook also includes plenty of information about the canyon's history if you're interested in learning more about the area's geology.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the country's most popular national parks, drawing nearly 4 million visitors each year. The park encompasses 415 square miles of tall mountain peaks, deep crystal blue lakes, lush meadows, and rushing rivers spread across the Continental Divide.

There are many ways to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. Drive around the park in your vehicle, ATV, or jeep. Book a tour on horseback , sign up for a whitewater rafting adventure , go rock climbing , or choose from over 300 miles of hiking trails. Adventurous spirits should try an impressive whitewater rafting adventure or some nail-biting rock climbing.

Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round and in the winter you'll find opportunities for show shoeing, sledding, and cross-country and backcountry skiing.

With so much to do and see, I highly recommend that you stop in at the  Beaver Meadows Visitor Center as your first order of business. It's the busiest visitor center in the park but it's a great place to get oriented to the park, talk to park rangers, and pick up a trail map or guidebook.

To get you started, here are a few of our top recommendations:

• If you don't have much time in the park or are traveling with a group that spans different ages and/or ability levels, check out the  Sprague Lake Trail . This easy 0.8-mile loop around Sprague Lake includes awe inspiring mountain views and many opportunities to spot wild life. If you like to fish, the lake is a great place to catch brook trout.
• Fern Lake Trail is a moderately difficult 7.1-mile out-and-back hike that's close to the park's main entrance. It's an especially great trail to hike in the fall when the leaves are changing.
• If you like to fish, check out high alpine lake . On the north side of the lake you'll find fantastic views of Fern Falls, Little Matterhorn, and the Notchtop Mountains. From here, you can hike to the falls. There are also options to backpack to the lake and camp at one of the backcountry campsites around the lake.

Estes Park is called the "gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park" for good reason. The main entrance to the park is located just four miles west of downtown Estes Park. To access the park, follow highway 36 through downtown Estes Park, and make a left turn at the stoplights onto Moraine Avenue.

Important information: If you're visiting Rocky Mountain National Park from May 26th - October 22nd, you'll need a timed entry reservation. Visit the National Park Service website for more information.

If you're traveling to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park from the Denver Metro area, you'll most likely pass through the small, charming town of Lyons. We encourage you to make Lyons a destination on your itinerary rather than just a small town you pass through on the way to Estes!

In 2020, my husband and I sold our house and moved into a 5th-wheel RV . Having lived in Colorado our entire lives, we've continued to spend a lot of time in the state because it's where so many of our family and friends live. Lyons has become our "Colorado home" during those visits.

We generally stay at LaVern M. Johnson Park which is situated in downtown Lyons and within walking distance of so many of the shops and restaurants we've come to love. The RV area is only one small area of this incredible public park. You'll find sports fields, playgrounds, picnic shelter and BBQ grills, tent camping pads, and plenty of places to access the river.

The park is very busy during summer months, especially on holidays and weekends, so plan ahead if you want to camp there or rent a picnic shelter. The parking lot for the park is also quite small for the number of people it attracts so plan for the possibility of parking elsewhere and walking in.

Here are a few of the places we recommend visiting in Lyons:

• The Saint Vrain Market . This tiny little market, bakery, and deli is my favorite place to shop in Lyons. It's a 3-minute walk from LaVern M Johnson Park, where we stay when we're there, and I visit the market nearly every day when we're there. You'll find a basic collection of cooking and baking items, fresh produce, a fantastic meat counter, and a delicious collection of homemade bread and pastries baked fresh every single day.
• Spirit Hound Distillery. Choose from a huge variety of cocktails, whisky, and other spirits, and great food in this distillery tasting room.
• Lyons Quilting. If you are into quilting and beautiful fabric, this shop is packed with treasures!
• Lyons Classic Pinball and Video . If you had a love affair with pinball at some point in your life, this is your kind of place. You'll find more than 35 pinball games dating from the 1960's to present day.
• Moxi Mercantile . This is a fantastic coffee shop with homemade bread and pastries and a fabulous collection of gifts, trinkets, and specialty food items.
• Smokin' Daves BBQ and Brew . You'll also find a Smokin' Daves in Estes Park. Stop in to either one (or both!) for some truly delicious BBQ!
• Mojo Taqueria . This Mexican restaurant has a delicious from-scratch menu and fantastic margaritas.
• Oskar Blues . You'll find beer, cider, sours, and other cocktails plus a huge lunch and dinner menu at this fun, casual, eclectic restaurant and brewery.
• The Lyons Dairy Bar . We love this hamburger and ice cream stand in Lyons! The menu includes a lot more than hamburgers, but in our opinion, the hamburgers are the best thing on the menu. We're also partial to their shakes and malts.
• MainStage Brewing . Another one of our favorite places in Lyons! MainStage has fantastic pizza and a great menu of beer, cider, and a handful of cocktails. We love the casual atmosphere, the outdoor seating, and the live music on the weekends.
• The Corridor Trail. This beautifully maintained path meanders through the town of Lyons along the Saint Vrain River. Along the way, you'll find a community botanic garden, Bohn Park , ball fields, a basketball court, playgrounds, a dirt bike skills area, picnic areas, and an off-leash dog park. Take your time and stop to see everything there is to see on this fantastic walking path!
• More Hiking and Biking in Lyons: Check out AllTrails for a great list of the many hiking and biking trails in and around Lyons.

One final mention - The Colorado Cherry Company is located on highway 36 in between Lyons and Estes Park. Stop in for cherry pies, cherry jam, cherry juice, and a huge range of other delicious products at this shop.

McGregor Ranch

The MacGregor Ranch is a historic homestead in Black Canyon Creek that's been in operation since 1873 and continues to use traditional methods of farming and ranching. For example, to this day, the ranch still uses horse-drawn machinery to make their hay. Tours are offered several days a week.

Scenic Drives Near Estes Park

Trail Ridge Road  in Rocky Mountain National Park is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. The road is open seasonally, closed during the winter, and connects Estes Park with the town of Grand Lake. It's a spectacular stretch of road providing miles of incredible views!

Trail Ridge is an incredible drive but can get extremely crowded, especially on the weekends. If you're looking for another gorgeous scenic drive without the crowds, spend an afternoon on the 55-mile Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. This drive is gorgeous throughout the spring and summer but our favorite time to drive it is in the fall when the leaves are changing!

The byway winds through Arapaho National Park and along the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park with Estes Park on one end an and Central City , a historic mining town that's a popular place for casino-loving folks, on the other. But, be sure to allow plenty of time to stop in some of the quirky small towns and epic stops along the drive such as...

• Chapel on the Rocks in Allenspark is a 100-year-old Catholic church built upon a stunning rock foundation.
• Get out and walk around Brainard Lake , which is set in a glacially carved valley surrounded by the high peaks along the Continental Divide
• If you like to gamble, stop in Black Hawk and find some of the slot machines that date back to the Colorado Gold Rush.
• Stop for lunch or a drink in Nederland and ask the locals about frozen dead guy days where the town brings out the cryogenically-frozen body of a dead Norwegian man. The event has become so popular it's been moved to Estes Park, but the locals will tell you everything you need to know about this strange tradition. Also ask them about Fred the Cat, Nederland's first and only duly elected cat mayor. Not even joking here people.

What did we miss?

If there's something else you think we should have included in this post about the many things to do in Estes Park and the surrounding areas, leave a comment below with your suggestion!

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Roxanne Wedan says

September 11, 2023 at 1:56 am

I can’t believe you missed the Lazy B Chuckwagon and Show. It is on highway 7 just 8 miles south of Estes Park! This is a family friendly event. It includes an authentic cowboy meal (smoked brisket, pulled pork, baked potato, baked beans, peach, biscuit and a brownie) followed by a western music show.

RebeccaBlackwell says

September 11, 2023 at 4:03 pm

It looks like fun Roxanne! I've added it to the section of recommendations of where to eat in Estes Park. Thanks for the tip!

Vickie says

August 13, 2023 at 3:14 pm

Heading to Glenhaven General store for cinnamon rolls is must! Just as few minutes from Estes Park and a lovely ride. After a delicious cinnamon roll. Continue on down the road with beautiful scenery. It is Highway 43 which at the end. If you take a right, it will bring you back to Estes Park.

August 16, 2023 at 9:44 am

Thanks for the tip Vickie! I will head straight there the next time we’re in the area. I love a good cinnamon roll!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Colorado (CO) » 14 Best Things to Do in Estes Park (CO)

14 Best Things to Do in Estes Park (CO)

Estes Park is a town of about 6,500 residents that’s located in north-central Colorado’s Larimer County.

A few hours northwest of Denver, it is set amidst some of the state’s most rugged and majestic landscapes. It’s surrounded by state and national parks and some of North America’s most popular ski resorts.

The town has an abundance of historical attractions as well, and plenty of choices for dining, lodging, and outdoor recreation activities, including golf, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

Below are 14 things to do in and around Estes Park that warrant a closer look when in the area.

1. Glacier Gorge

It’s hard to stand out in a state so full of fantastic geography, but previous visitors agree that Glacier Gorge does precisely that.

The gorge is located in an idyllic valley in Rocky Mountain National Park and offers guests a unique insight into how the landscape was formed by massive glacial movements that gouged their way into the rocky earth over millennia.

A number of hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty wind their way around the gorge. For nature lovers, there are rivers, lakes, and streams that are home to lots of wildlife and gamefish.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain State Park is one of Colorado’s most popular and often-visited natural attractions. It offers visitors some of the most breathtaking mountain vistas that they’re ever likely to see.

The park stretches for more than 400 square miles, and much of it is more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

The Trail Ridge Road is perfect for those who’d rather take it all in from the comfort of a car. For those who’d prefer to head out into the wild, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, and back-country backpacking are ever-popular ways to spend a day.

3. Estes Park Golf Course

For many visiting golfers, hitting the links is one of the most pleasant ways to experience the great outdoors, and Estes Park is home to several prominent golf courses.

The 18-Hole Estes Park Golf Course is more than a century old and was designed by two well-known golf course designers, who managed to incorporate the natural environment into the 6,300-yard course.

In addition to well-manicured fairways, ample hazards, and stunning mountain views, it’s common to see wildlife during a round, including elk, deer, and foxes.

The course has been ranked as one of the country’s top ten most scenic courses, and greens fees are surprisingly affordable.

4. MacGregor Ranch and Museum

For more than two centuries, ranches have been integral parts of Colorado’s landscape and economy. For many first-time visitors to the Rocky Mountain State, they’re iconic attractions that are well worth checking out.

MacGregor Ranch dates back more than 150 years to a time when the area was even more wild, rugged and rural than it is today. It’s been preserved to near-original condition to give guests unique insights to the lives of those who settled in the area ages ago.

Guided tours of the museum and grounds are offered during the summer season, and guests are welcome to explore the farm buildings, homestead, and fields on their own as well.

5. The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel is one of Estes Park’s most historic and visited attractions. In addition to its impressive architecture, rumors abound that it’s haunted.

Before Estes Park was the tourist attraction that it is today, the hotel attracted well-to-do guests interested in staying in posh digs while exploring the mountains, and the on-site Stanley Steamer Car Museum is now one of the hotel’s most popular draws.

The museum features a unique collection of historically significant automobiles and fire trucks, and a historic concert hall. Both hotel and evening ghost tours are available at multiple times daily.

6. Estes Park Aerial Tramway

There’s no more dramatic and exhilarating way to take in Colorado’s awe-inspiring scenery than by elevated tramway, and adventurous visitors to Estes Park have the chance to do just that.

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway dates back more than six decades and was the brainchild of a local lift designer and engineer who was blown away by what he saw at mountain resorts in Europe.

The tramway is a family-owned and operated business that takes huge numbers of visitors to the top of Prospect Mountain annually. The season generally runs from May through September. Tickets are dirt-cheap, and children younger than five ride free.

7. Park Theater

The Park Theater is another of Estes Park’s most iconic historic attractions. It was constructed in the early 20th century when impressive architecture was the order of the day.

Previous guests have described the theater as stunning, quaint, and charming, and according to some, it’s one of the oldest movie houses in the country.

Though tickets aren’t as cheap as they once were, they’re still affordable, and the renovated and upgraded theater now shows both first-run and independent films, as well as documentaries and live performances.

Light snacks and drinks are available on-site, and tickets often go quickly to popular shows, so plan accordingly.

8. Open Air Adventure Park

Located on Prospect Village Drive in Estes Park, Open Air Adventure Park is a great way to get active, burn excess calories, and experience the great outdoors without leaving town limits.

The park features dozens of individual activities, and they’ve been designed with visitors of nearly all ages and levels of physical abilities in mind.

Climbing areas, rope bridges, and obstacle courses are in abundance, and the park is staffed with experienced and safety-conscious employees that make sure everyone has a fun day and goes home in one piece.

Though it’s a bit on the pricy side, it’s conveniently located, and is often one of the most memorable experiences of many visitors’ trips.

9. Notchtop Bakery & Café

Notchtop Bakery & Café has been open for more than two decades and is a must-visit attraction for those looking to fill their empty stomachs without spending an arm and a leg in the process.

The bakery and café are located on East Wonder View Street in town and are open daily from 7 AM until 3 PM.

Topnotch is particularly well-known for its hearty breakfast fare that includes Tex-Mex inspired dishes, steak and eggs, eggs benedict, and scramble platters. For those with dietary restrictions, they have gluten-free options as well.

Lunch items include burgers, gyros, soups, and salads, and their fresh baked goods include donuts, bread, and banana cream pie.

10. New Venture Cycling Tours

New Venture Cycling Tours offers fit and outdoorsy visitors a unique and invigorating way to experience Colorado, and they’re headquartered in downtown Estes Park.

For those traveling without their own cycling gear, New Venture has you covered; bikes and helmets are included, as are drinks, snacks, and some of the most amazing scenery you’re ever going to see.

Tour options range from easy and family-friendly excursions that last just a few hours to full-day epic treks into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Previous guests suggested packing additional snacks, a hat, sunglasses, and cool weather and rain gear just to be on the safe side.

11. Rapid Transit Rafting

Rapid Transit Rafting is one of Estes Park’s premier outdoor adventure providers. They’re fully licensed with the state’s parks and wildlife department, which means their primary goals are providing safe, well-managed, and utterly unforgettable experiences.

They’ve been in business for more than three decades and provide a variety of rafting options on the Colorado and Cache La Poudre Rivers.

Experiences are offered in a variety of lengths and varying degrees of difficulty, so there’s probably a suitable option regardless of who you’re traveling with.

During peak season, spots can fill quickly, so consider booking in advance so you don’t miss out on a truly majestic experience.

12. Ed’s Cantina

Ed’s Cantina in Estes Park has been around since the mid-‘80s; since then, it’s been a family operated restaurant that prides itself on providing great Mexican food with a Rocky Mountain twist to hungry locals and visitors alike.

Ed’s is open every day and features authentic Mexican decorations, a relaxed environment, and helpful and attentive staff.

Most of what’s on the menu is made fresh on-site daily, and a few of their favorites include fajitas, chimichangas, tacos, and carnitas.

Rumor has it that their margaritas are to die for, their prices are reasonable, and their portion sizes hefty.

13. Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Due to its vast tracts of mountains and overall rural nature, Colorado’s skies are naturally much darker than many states; that means that the stargazing is top-notch for bother amateur and experienced astronomy aficionados.

The Estes Park Memorial Observatory is a great community resource that’s often overlooked by harried travelers, but for those interested in getting a guided tour of the cosmos, it’s the perfect place to do it.

The observatory’s staff host a variety of engaging and educational programs that were designed with all ages in mind. Admission is totally free, although most guests choose to leave a few bucks per person.

14. Kind Coffee

Kind Coffee on East Elkhorn Avenue in Estes Park is open every day from 6:30 AM until 6 PM. They’re locally famous for offering only organic and fair trade beans from all over the world.

Their hot and cold coffee drinks are their big draws, especially with the caffeine-craving morning and afternoon crowds, but they also offer a variety of non-coffee drinks like teas, smoothies, juices, and shakes.

Many new customers are so impressed with their coffee that they pick up a bag of whole beans to take home with them. For those who show up with an empty stomach, they offer fresh pastries and baked goods.

14 Best Things to Do in Estes Park (CO):

• Glacier Gorge
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Estes Park Golf Course
• MacGregor Ranch and Museum
• The Stanley Hotel
• Estes Park Aerial Tramway
• Park Theater
• Open Air Adventure Park
• Notchtop Bakery & Café
• New Venture Cycling Tours
• Rapid Transit Rafting
• Ed’s Cantina
• Estes Park Memorial Observatory
• Kind Coffee

17 Super Fun Things to Do In Estes Park Colorado

E stes Park, often referred to as the Gateway to the Rockies , is a quaint, yet delightful mountain retreat in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

If you were to Google " Colorado Resorts Estes Park ", you might just discover that it is ranked by US News & Travel among the best mountain towns to visit in the USA .

Most days from Memorial Day until Labor Day, the streets are bustling with tourists. Weekends are especially popular in this mountain retreat.

The main street of Estes Park is lined with cute tourist shops if you are looking for the perfect Estes Park memento or dining experience. And if you have a sweet tooth for fudge, ice cream or salt water taffy, well, you won't be disappointed.

17 Things to Do In Estes Park Colorado

Both the town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two of the top Colorado destinations for families , hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers alike. They pretty much go hand in hand. Estes is one of the fun places to visit in Colorado in summer, winter, spring and fall.

The New York Times lists Estes Park as one of the 52 places around the world where you can be a part of the solution to climate change . As a winter destination with no ski lifts, it lowers the carbon footprint and encourages visitors to get out and enjoy the snow.

1. Take the Ghost Tour at the Stanley Hotel Mountain Retreat

The Stanley Hotel , built in 1909 by Freelan Stanley (of the Stanley Steemer fame), sits on a hill overlooking the town of Estes Park, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. It is a grand hotel with modern amenities while also emanating an old-world charm.

If you have ever watched the movie, " Somewhere in Time ", you might just see some similarities with the stately white-pillared architecture and red roof of the Stanley. It feels as though you could step back in time as you walk through the front door of this landmark hotel.

Whether you visit as a guest of the hotel, enjoy the grounds, dine with family and friends, or take the guided Ghost Tour through underground tunnels you'll quickly see why this hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Experience the Stanley Hotel Night Ghost Tour

2. Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City Estes Park

Our girls have always loved stopping at Fun City Estes Park to ride the iconic rainbow slides. In fact, there might have been a little bribery related to the rainbow slide! "If you will hike with us without complaining, we will stop at the slides when we are done." (Feel free to borrow that little bit of parenting wisdom.)

If you love a little adventure and aren't afraid of heights, this could be your kind of fun. At only $2 per person per ride, it is a budget-friendly activity.

You can also ride the bumper boats and cars, strap into the bungee trampoline, try a little miniature golf, challenge your friends to go-kart racing, or try out the water walking balls.

If you choose the bumper boats at Fun City Estes Park, prepare to get wet. The boats have a central steering column that also sports a water gun. Let the fun begin. 

3. Meander Along the Estes Park Riverwalk

The Big Thompson River and Fall River converge along the Estes Park Riverwalk. Enjoy the serenity of the river as you wind your way through downtown Estes Park.

4. Spot Wildlife

No doubt a trip to Estes Park isn't complete without a few animal sightings. Elk are a common sight even within the town of Estes. You may also spot mule deer, bighorn sheep, bears, a variety of large cats, otters, squirrels, chipmunks, and over 250 species of birds around Estes Park and within Rocky Mountain National Park.

While they are awesome and often majestic to look at, it is illegal to feed the animals.

And don't be like the crazy people we see who get out of their vehicles to get a closer look at the elk, bears, and moose!

5. Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway—Closed

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway , designed by Robert Heron, used to carry passengers to the summit of Prospect Mountain.

...Mr. Heron traveled to Europe to study the tramways and became more fascinated with their design and capabilities. Because of the steep terrain, many trams in Europe do not require any towers to support the wire ropes. The entire length is a free span between the bottom and the top stations. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway utilizes this design. A free span is fairly uncommon in the United States and this type of design affords a very smooth ride. ~ Estes Park Aerial Tramway

While this attraction is closed as of now, Chris and I are both hoping that the tramway will open in the future.

6. Shop Downtown Estes Park

With over 300 shops to choose from, shopping is always one of the fun things to do in Estes Park. Meander up and down Elkhorn Avenue looking for a new sweatshirt, exploring art shops, or discovering local artisans and crafters.

The tourist stores in Estes Park include:

• Homemade candy, ice cream and fudge
• Adventure gear rental
• Adventure gear outfitters
• Local arts and crafts
• Christmas decorations

7. Attend Estes Park Festivals

There are festival all year long that offer something for everyone. If you aren't interested in the Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour, come and enjoy the festivals in downtown Estes Park.

Fall and Winter Festivals

• Autumn Gold Festival
• Pumpkins and Pilsners Festival
• Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
• Rails in the Rockies
• Catch the Glow Parade and Celebration
• Estes Park Holiday Wine Fest
• Winter Festival
• Wine and Chocolate Festival

Spring and Summer Festivals

• Whiskey Warm Up
• Duck Race Festival
• Memorial Day
• Bigfoot Days
• Jazz & Blues Festival
• Scandinavian Midsummer Festival
• Free Summer Concert Series
• 4th of July
• Estes Park Races
• Wool Market
• Rooftop Rodeo
• Estes Park Wine Festival

8. Find a Cool Restaurant in Estes Park, Colorado

Chris and I have enjoyed dining at a number of the restaurants in Estes Park:

• Mama Rose's at 338 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Poppy's Pizza and Grill at 342 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Penelope's Old Time Burgers at 229 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
• Antonio's Real New York Pizza at 1560 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517
• Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant at 220 E. Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park, Co, 80538
• The Egg of Estes at 393 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517

If you plan to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, pack a picnic lunch or stop at the local Subway or Jimmy Johns for sandwiches.

These are only a sampling of cafes and restaurants available in Estes Park. There is sure to be something for everyone in this mountain retreat.

9. Book a Place to Stay in Estes Park

You won't find a lot of big name hotels in Estes Park, but there are plenty of bed and breakfasts, lodges, cottages, cabins, vacation rentals or apartments to rent. Check Booking.com for your next trip to Estes Park.

Booking.com

10. Camp in Estes Park

• Hermit Park Open Space

Camping is definitely one of the things to do in Estes Park and is an adventure you should try if you have never camped before. Camping options include:

• Paradise on the River
• Elk Meadow Lodge/RV Park
• Spruce Lake RV Park
• Estes Park KOA
• Estes Park Campground at Mary's Inn
• River Forks Inn
• Manor RV Park at Trout Haven Resorts
• Estes Park Campground at East Portal
• Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District

There are also camping available within Rocky Mountain National Park :

• Aspenglen Campground - reservation required
• Glacier Basin Campground - reservation required
• Moraine Park Campground - reservation required (available first-come first-served in winter)
• Timber Creek Campground - reservation required
• Longs Peak Campground - available first-come first-served

11. Buy Ingredients for S'mores for Your Campfire

If you plan to stay in Estes Park for a few days and are coming from out of town, you will be happy to know that there is a Safeway grocery store in Estes Park along with a few smaller local markets. You can find all of your s'mores ingredients, camping, cooking, and barbecuing food needs here. If you decide to go for a picnic at the last minute, you'll definitely find what you need.

12. Visit Estes Park in the Fall

One of the distinctive features of the Colorado Rockies in the fall is the brilliant butter yellow color of the turning aspens. You'll find milder temperatures, still lots of sunshine, and a crisp feel to the air.

Whether you are on horseback, hiking, riding a mountain bike, or driving the scenic byways, Colorado doesn't disappoint when it comes to fall color !

Searching for things to do in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park on a fall afternoon is the perfect way to spend the day in this mountain retreat.

13. Visit Estes Park, Colorado in Winter

Don't just limit yourself to visiting Estes Park in the summertime, there are plenty of things to do in Estes Park in winter too!

As the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, you should come to Estes Park for a few days of winter fun with your family . You'll find everything from winter hiking , snowshoeing, sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley, snowmobiling, and horseback riding.

When you're finished for the day, return to Estes Park for some good food and maybe a soak in the hot tub at your cabin.

14. Bundle Up For the "Catch the Glow" Christmas Parade

Every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving Day, the Estes Park “Catch the Glow” Christmas Parade takes place. Find a spot along Elkhorn Avenue for the 5:30 pm start time. You’ll find all of your standard parade features with marching bands, hand-crafted floats, and fire trucks… ending with a surprise guest.

Be sure to bundle up with puffy jackets, snow pants, gloves and a hat . Hand warmers would be helpful too. Estes Park is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and temperatures will be chilly in this mountain retreat.

If you plan to spend a few days in Estes Park, check Booking.com for a cozy cabin to rent.

15. Estes Park Scenic Drives

If you come to visit our family, chances are good that we will take you to visit Estes Park and spend a relaxing day driving in  Rocky Mountain National Park  and exploring this mountain retreat. We still fun, new things to do in Estes Park Colorado!

We visit the national park so often that we always purchase the  annual   America the Beautiful—The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass .

Estes Park offers scenic drives, so be sure to plan time to enjoy some awesome mountain scenery.

• Lyons to Estes Park
• Trail Ridge Road
• Fall River Road
• Bear Lake Corridor

16. Plan Hikes Near Estes Park

There are hundreds of trails and hikes in Colorado near Denver and Estes Park to choose from; it might be hard to know where to start or which hike to choose.

Your best bet is to plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park while exploring Estes Park where you'll find dozens of hikes at differing skill levels. Refer to my post on the 25 Best Hikes in Colorado Near Denver to determine location and skill levels.

• Alberta Falls
• Bear Lake Nature Trail
• Bierstadt Lake
• Deer Mountain Trail
• Lake Haiyaha
• Lake Isabelle
• Lily Pad Lake Trail
• Lily Lake Loop
• Lumpy Ridge to Gem Lake
• Mills Lake and Loch Vale
• Mitchell Lake
• Mount Margaret Trail
• Ypsilon Lake

17. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Over the past twenty years that my family has lived in Colorado, we have spent many weekends discovering all of the best things to do in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

It is no wonder as the  US News-Travel  suggests that Rocky Mountain National Park is in the  top 5 places to visit in Colorado .

Spring, summer, winter, or fall,  we have hiked numerous trails , camped (though I do not love camping !), found things to do in Estes Park, and challenged each other to see who could spot the first elk or moose.

If you want to elevate your experience while in the park, try a  GuideAlong Audio Tour . The  GuideAlong Audio Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park  is fantastic.

How Do You Get to Estes Park?

Estes Park is approximately a 90-minute drive from Denver, Colorado.

Denver to Estes Park Map courtesy of Google Maps

Travel by Car

If you have access to a car or are planning to rent a car for your visit, the above map shows the most direct route from Denver (and surrounding areas) to Estes Park. You will need to have a National Park Pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park as well as a timed-entry reservation if you are visiting between May and October. (See below).

Check out my 30 Best Tips for Driving in the Mountains .

Travel by Bus

Ride the Bustang bus from Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver all the way to Estes Park (or on to Rocky Mountain National Park) on weekends and holidays from the end of May until the first of October.

Tickets to ride the Bustang bus to the Estes Park mountain retreat are only $5.00 each way from Denver (also from Westminster and Boulder, and $3.00 each way from Lyons) and are about 2 1/2 hours each way.

PLEASE NOTE: Tickets must be reserved in advance to save your seat.  Plan to pay with cash? Select the “Pay Cash on Board” option as your ticket type when you begin the reservation process.

If you choose, you can get off the bus and find things to do in Estes Park, (located near the park’s east entrance) or ride the bus all the way to the park n' ride in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here you will transfer to the free Bear Lake or Moraine Park shuttles to explore more of the park.

If you choose to get off in Estes Park first but still want to enter the park later, you can make a reservation on the park’s Hiker Shuttle.

Bonus! If you ride the bus, you will not need to purchase an additional Rocky Mountain National Park timed entry reservation for the 2022 season.

What is the Weather Like in Estes Park, Colorado?

While Colorado boasts 300 days of sunshine every year, if you are visiting Estes Park, those sunshine days total approximately 238 days. On the other 118 days of the year, Estes receives some measurable precipitation in the form of rain, snow, sleet or hail.

Be sure to check Weather.com before you arrive to know how to best pack and plan for your stay in Estes Park.

Summers in Estes Park are beautiful with comfortable temperatures that average approximately 77°F. Winters are much colder with an average temperature of 12°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most scenic drive in estes park.

One of the most popular AND scenic drives near Estes Park is Trail Ridge Road in the national park.

Are there grizzly bears in Estes Park?

No. While the Rocky Mountains of Colorado used to be home to grizzly bears, the bears became extinct in Colorado in 1953.

How much does it cost to visit Estes Park?

There is no entrance fee to visit Estes Park. It is a small tourist town and mountain retreat. However, Estes Park borders Rocky Mountain National Park, and there is a fee to enter the national park.

When looking for things to do in Estes Park Colorado, can it get crowded?

Yes. Over the past twenty plus years that our family has been visiting Estes Park, the tourist traffic has grown steadily. The biggest jump has occurred since Covid. People visit Estes Park all year long, but the biggest crowds will be visiting in the peak season from July to September.

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Final thoughts on 17 super fun things to do in estes park colorado.

Whether you are a first-timer to Estes Park or you live close by and like to visit on the weekends, you'll find plenty of things to do in Estes Park that will be fun for adventurers, couples, families, and friends.

Plan your next vacation to Colorado and don't forget to include these Top Five Things to do In Estes Park:

• Take the Stanley Hotel "Spooky" Ghost Tour
• Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City
• Browse the Tourist Shops
• Enjoy homemade ice cream, fudge and toffee
• Attend a festival

You may also enjoy these posts about Colorado...

• 14 Best Places in Colorado for Family Travel this Summer
• 15 Breathtaking Hikes in Colorado
• 10 Best Things To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
• 21 Fun Things to Do In Glenwood Springs, Colorado
• 25 Fun Things to Do In Buena Vista Colorado
• 10 Epic Mesa Verde Tours on a National Park Road Trip in Colorado
• 10 Best Things to Do In Breckenridge Colorado in Summer
• Top 10 Fun Family Adventures in Colorado Springs, Colorado

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Estes Park: Your Adventure Awaits In The Rockies

Published: September 12, 2024

by Rebekah Tryon

Looking for a perfect getaway in the United States? Estes Park might be just what you need. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this charming town offers breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and a cozy small-town feel. Whether you love hiking, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing in nature, Estes Park has something for everyone. Explore the stunning trails of Rocky Mountain National Park, enjoy a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, or visit the historic Stanley Hotel. With its mix of natural beauty and local attractions, Estes Park promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Ready to plan your trip? Let's dive into what makes this destination so special.

Estes Park: Your Adventure Awaits in the Rockies

Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Estes Park offers a gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountains. Whether you're a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or just looking to relax, this charming town has something for everyone. Let's dive into some must-visit spots that will make your trip unforgettable.

Scenic Drives and Overlooks

Estes Park is renowned for its breathtaking views. A scenic drive through the area will leave you in awe of nature's beauty.

Trail Ridge Road : This high-altitude road offers panoramic views of the Rockies. It's the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., reaching over 12,000 feet.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway : Stretching from Estes Park to Black Hawk, this route showcases stunning mountain vistas, historic towns, and lush forests.

Bear Lake Road : A short but scenic drive leading to Bear Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake or hike to nearby trails.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who crave adventure, Estes Park is a playground of outdoor activities. From hiking to rock climbing, there's no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping.

Rocky Mountain National Park : With over 300 miles of hiking trails, this park offers something for everyone, from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Estes Park Aerial Tramway : Get a bird's-eye view of the town and surrounding mountains. The tramway takes you up to Prospect Mountain, where you can enjoy hiking and picnicking.

Lake Estes Marina : Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon boat and explore the serene waters of Lake Estes. Fishing and bird-watching are also popular activities here.

Wildlife Watching

Estes Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The area is home to a variety of animals, making it a perfect spot for wildlife watching.

Elk Herds : Estes Park is famous for its elk population. Visit in the fall to witness the dramatic elk rut, where males compete for mates.

Moraine Park : This valley in Rocky Mountain National Park is a great place to spot deer, elk, and even the occasional bear.

Alluvial Fan : Created by a massive flood in 1982, this area is now a beautiful spot to see bighorn sheep and other wildlife.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Beyond its natural beauty, Estes Park boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. Explore these sites to get a deeper understanding of the area's past.

Stanley Hotel : This historic hotel inspired Stephen King's "The Shining." Take a ghost tour or simply enjoy the elegant architecture and stunning views.

Estes Park Museum : Learn about the town's history, from its early settlers to its development as a tourist destination .

MacGregor Ranch Museum : Step back in time at this working ranch and museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of early homesteaders in the area.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Estes Park has plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Fun City : This amusement park features go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and more. It's a great place for a day of family fun.

Estes Park Ride-A-Kart : Another fun spot with go-karts, bumper cars, and an arcade. Perfect for a day of laughter and excitement.

Tiny Town Miniature Golf : Enjoy a round of mini-golf at this charming course, complete with whimsical obstacles and beautiful landscaping.

Relaxation and Wellness

After all the adventure, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Estes Park offers several options for those looking to unwind.

The Spa at Estes Park : Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or other spa services. The serene setting will help you relax and recharge.

Riverspointe Spa : Located along the river, this spa offers a variety of treatments, including hot stone massages and aromatherapy.

Yoga in the Park : Join a yoga class in one of Estes Park's beautiful outdoor settings. It's a great way to connect with nature while finding inner peace.

Final Thoughts on Estes Park

Estes Park is a gem in the Rockies. With its stunning mountain views , wildlife , and endless outdoor activities , it’s a must-visit. Whether you’re hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park , exploring the charming downtown, or just soaking in the natural beauty, there’s something for everyone. The town offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. You can enjoy a peaceful stroll by the river or challenge yourself with a tough trail. Plus, the local shops and restaurants add a unique touch to your visit. Estes Park is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable trip. The Rockies are calling, and Estes Park is ready to welcome you.

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This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

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If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.