Estes Park Is Colorado’s Best Small-Town Escape to the Rockies

Colorful Colorado is aptly nicknamed for its gorgeous Rocky Mountain scenery, and its rustic natural beauty draws in tourists from around the globe every year. There is one quintessential small town in Colorado that makes for the ultimate getaway. Whether it's the beautiful mountain scenery, the charming, historic old shops along its main street, the frequent wildlife sightings, the town's rich history, the outdoor recreation, or a combination of all of the above, Estes Park has something for everyone to love. Read on for a comprehensive guide to all the exciting things to do in Estes Park, Colorado.

From the coast of Oregon to the mountains of Pennsylvania and everywhere in between, there are countless charming and captivating small towns across America worthy of a weekend getaway. Curated by our team of local travel experts, you’ll love our 2026 Small Town Getaways.

History of Estes Park

Estes Park is a town with a rich history that began with the Arapaho Native Americans who inhabited the Estes Park Valley region in the 1850s.

The earliest European settlers were likely trappers, and the town itself was named after Joel Estes in 1859. The earliest road leading into Estes Park was only fit for pack mules. But in 1873, the road that would eventually become U.S. Highway 36 was built from Lyons to Estes Park, followed by an additional road from Loveland built in 1903. These roadways have been severely impacted by significant flood events in both past and recent years, so they've been reconstructed and improved multiple times.

Is Estes Park Worth Visiting?

Estes Park is one of the prettiest and most vibrant mountain towns in Colorado. The rising influx of visitors over the past decade suggests that the secret is out: more and more people are discovering the beauty and allure of this iconic Colorado gem.

Without question, Estes Park is one of the most beautiful towns in Colorado. If you visit during the warm summer months, you will likely have to contend with some crowds, so you'll want to plan your activities and lodging well ahead of time.

The best tip I can give you is to plan to arrive early for your activities. Whether you want to hike, visit Rocky Mountain National Park, dine at the local restaurants, or enjoy the town's recreational activities, you'll want to arrive early.

How to Get to Estes Park

From Denver, I recommend traveling north on I-25 until you reach the U.S. Highway 36 exit, also known as 217A. Then, you'll take this highway northwest through the town of Lyons until you reach the U.S. Highway 34 intersection, which leads you into the heart of downtown Estes Park.

Alternatively, some travelers prefer to take I-25 north to the U.S. Highway 34 route that leads through Loveland and west into Estes Park. Just be prepared that this route is a bit more curvy and may not be as ideal for those with a fear of heights. Both routes are paved and accessible by all vehicle types.

Getting Around Estes Park

There are multiple ways to get around Estes Park. The most popular ways are by car, bicycle, or walking, since the main part of town is small and easily walkable. Be prepared for traffic when traveling by car, but leave yourself extra time to travel, exercise patience, and you'll get where you're going in no time. You can also take the Estes Park Shuttle if you'd prefer to avoid the stresses of traffic and make your travels a bit easier.

Best Time to Visit Estes Park

As someone who visits Estes Park multiple times a year to photograph its beautiful landscape and wildlife, I find Estes Park most magical in the fall. When the foliage changes colors, the golden aspen trees that blanket the landscape add an ethereal atmosphere that must be witnessed in person. Additionally, wildlife such as elk, moose, coyotes, and even the occasional bear sighting makes the experience that much more memorable.

While the fall season can bring large crowds to Estes Park, it is still possible to find solitude in nature to witness beautiful scenes, like this one captured in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park is the number one draw for most people visiting Estes Park these days. It is one of the most famous National Parks in the country for a couple of reasons: the mountain scenery is second to none, and wildlife is incredibly abundant.

The fall season is the period when the elk are in a rut, and you'll find them frequently wandering around the town of Estes Park as well as the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. They are most active in the evening, when the males will often spar with each other in a battle for dominance.

Sometimes you can spot elk in the meadows during the daytime hours when they are most calm. Above, a bull elk lies in the tall grass, gazing sleepily in the sun.

While fall is the most active time for wildlife in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, that's not to say that you can't spot wildlife outside of the fall season. Wildlife sightings are common year-round, especially if you know where to look.

I encountered this mother moose with her adolescent male calf near Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park one gorgeous summer afternoon.

Where to Stay in Estes Park

The infamous Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King's novel The Shining (which was later adapted into the famous horror film), is worth visiting all on its own, even if you have no plans to stay there. However, having stayed there myself, I highly recommend that you plan to stay at least a night or two at this iconic lodge.

You might find the hotel itself a bit eerie and spooky, and those who are intrigued by paranormal happenings might find the Stanley Hotel all the more intriguing. Are you up for a night at what is reportedly one of the most haunted hotels in the country?

When I stayed at The Stanley (as the locals refer to it), my night was made extra spooky by the wind gusts that seemed to howl through the rafters in the most haunting way. But I absolutely loved it because The Shining is my favorite horror movie. But paranormal happenings aside, the on-site restaurant is delicious and boasts the photographs of many, many famous people who have visited, including Stephen King himself. There is also an on-site gift shop, rustic cars, an old grand piano, and many other special touches that make this hotel one-of-a-kind.

The Estes Park Resort is truly rustic and luxurious; I've personally stayed there, so I can vouch that this is one of the most beautiful places to book. This waterfront hotel sits right on the edge of Lake Estes, so I recommend you request a lake view when you make your reservation (just be sure to do so well in advance because the hotel books out quickly).

Your room comes complete with luxurious amenities and bedding, a patio with views of the surrounding landscape, a Keurig coffee maker, and communal fire pits for roasting marshmallows while you gaze across the lake. There is also an upscale restaurant named Ember Restaurant and Bar that you should not miss out on. The Estes Park Resort is the most magical way to experience the beauty this town has to offer.

Trailborn Rocky Mountains is another boutique motel in the heart of Estes Park, and it's absolutely worth checking out.

This rustic yet modern hotel features 40 guest rooms, the Casa Colina restaurant and café, a swimming pool, a communal fireplace, an on-site marketplace, fast, free WiFi, and all the comfort and relaxation you crave. Visit its website for up-to-date rates and booking information.

Estes Park Sights and Landmarks

One of the most iconic landmarks near Estes Park is the breathtaking Longs Peak, whose 14,259-foot summit is shown on the left side of this image.

While the peak can be viewed from Estes Park proper, the best views (without actually summiting the mountain) are found within Rocky Mountain National Park. I captured this shot of Longs Peak from Dream Lake Trail in the evening when the setting sun bathes the peak in a beautiful golden hue.

While we're on the subject of Dream Lake, let's talk about it, because if you continue further down this trail, you'll reach Emerald Lake, which is easily one of the most picturesque lakes in all of Rocky Mountain National Park. These views of Hallett Peak in the distance just can't be beat.

To reach Emerald Lake, you'll start your trek from Bear Lake Trailhead and branch off to the left when you reach the first fork in the trail. Continue along the trail (which can be a little steep but not terribly difficult if you're in reasonably good shape), and you'll pass Nymph Lake, then Dream Lake, which are both quite beautiful in and of themselves.

In total, the trail is 2.2 miles in length out and back and is rated moderate in difficulty. Be sure to prepare with sturdy shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, and hiking poles. If you hike this trail in the wintertime, be sure to wear microspikes, as it can get quite icy and snow-packed at times.

Estes Park Activities and Attractions

If you're looking for a unique and truly exhilarating experience during your visit to Estes Park, be sure to check out Via Ferrata! This adventure is not for those with a fear of heights; however, it is doable for climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. You won't find views like these anywhere else in Estes Park.

Imagine a climbing experience that doesn't require you to have technical climbing skills and knowledge because with the Via Ferrata, you'll be led by experienced guides on a climb where the footholds are anchored to the wall, plus you'll be harnessed for extra safety. You'll have multiple route options to choose from based on your own comfort and skill level, but whichever route you take will offer you truly unforgettable views and an adrenaline-packed experience to get your blood pumping.

If you've never experienced the thrilling ride of a mountain coaster, you are in for a special treat. The Mustang Mountain Coaster is an adrenaline-packed ride, allowing you to experience the beauty of the landscape of this family-owned alpine ranch. Tickets start at $20 per person and can be purchased through its website linked above.

What better way to take in the views of the landscape than from high up above? The Estes Park Aerial Tram is an amazing ride, providing some of the most breathtaking views you can find in Estes Park.

The Estes Park Aerial Tram is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 a.m., and tickets are $39.95 per adult, $24.95 per child ages 6 to 11, $29.95 for seniors ages 65 and up, and children under age 5 can ride for free. Visit the link above to reserve your tickets.

Shops and Boutiques in Estes Park

Taking a stroll through Downtown Estes Park is one activity I suggest doing on a warm summer day. There are countless charming souvenir shops, antique stores, restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, and local outfitters that give a real glimpse into this small mountain town's charm.

Estes Park Souvenirs, Grubsteak Restaurant & Pub, Mary Jane's, The Grey House, The Mountain Vault, and Funky Moose are just a handful of the many boutique souvenir shops that you'll find along the main downtown strip in Estes Park, Elkhorn Avenue.

Restaurants in Estes Park

You Need Pie Diner & Bakery of Estes Park is an absolute must-visit for its award-winning pies! But that's not all they serve. They have a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but their breakfast is especially delicious.

This adorable diner serves over 80 incredible varieties of pies (the Blueberry pie is famous), so the pie-lover in your family should not pass up the opportunity to try one of their mouth-watering delicacies.

Ed's Cantina & Grill is located right along the Riverwalk in downtown Estes Park and is a vibrant little Mexican eatery you'll absolutely love. They offer the freshest local handmade menu options. The guacamole is to die for, and be sure to try a margarita flight while you're at it!

Notchtop Bakery & Cafe is by far my favorite breakfast cafe in Estes Park. They serve the best breakfast in town, hands down, and easily among the best breakfasts I've ever had. They can sometimes have a wait, but the earlier you can arrive, the better! It's well worth the wait—thank me later.

Nature in and Around Estes Park

While Rocky Mountain National Park is the greatest draw of Estes Park, there is plenty of beauty to be found around Estes Park without entering the National Park itself. For example, Lily Lake is a beautiful little lake with a hiking trail around it. The trail is flat, easy, and just shy of one mile, making it the perfect option for a quick and easy hike with plenty of natural beauty to soak in.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado's most beloved natural wonders for its sprawling meadows, towering Rocky Mountains, and abundant wildlife. It is a true sanctuary in nature, but be prepared that due to its pristine beauty, it draws significant crowds, especially during the summer travel season.

There is an entrance fee of $15 to $30 per vehicle per day for entry into Rocky Mountain National Park. And, due to the park's popularity, a timed entry reservation system is used annually, typically from May to mid-October. So be sure to reserve your timed entry slot for $2. Visit the park's website to do so.

While there is wildlife scattered abundantly throughout both Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, please respect their natural environment and keep a safe distance from them.

I have personally witnessed many tourists approach dangerously close to the wildlife in this park, which is distressing for the wildlife but also risks serious injury or even death if an elk were to charge you. Play it safe and enjoy these beautiful animals from a safe distance.

Sprague Lake is another easily accessible lake located inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Similar to Lily Lake, there is a 0.8-mile trail around its perimeter that's easily accessible for hikers at all levels. Plus, you can enjoy sweeping views of Hallett Peak in the distance across lake waters that are clear as glass, which is an experience in and of itself.

We hope you enjoyed this comprehensive Estes Park Travel Guide! If you plan to make a trip out to Estes Park in the near future, check out the Rocky Mountain Roamer, a virtual AI assistant that answers any travel-related questions you may have about your upcoming visit. You can ask about restaurant recommendations, nearby hiking trails, recommended travel routes, safety information, and much more.

Also, for a little deeper dive into the town and its history, check out these 5 things to know about Estes Park before you visit.