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Nestled at the base of the towering Rocky Mountains, Estes Park is more than just a charming mountain town. It’s a gateway to adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned mountain explorer, Estes Park offers something for everyone, all year round.
Why Visit Estes Park?
Estes Park is best known as the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, one of America’s most stunning natural treasures. But even beyond the park’s borders, the town offers an unforgettable mix of rugged wilderness and small-town charm.
There’s something for everyone in this town. From outdoor activities, haunted stories, to family-owned shops in town, you’ll be sure to find ways to spend your time.
I like that this is an easier day trip from Denver. We can easily take our dogs for the day, or any visitors can pack in a day’s worth of activities before heading back to the city.
Rocky Mountain National Park
The star attraction near Estes Park, of course, is Rocky Mountain National Park. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, alpine lakes, and snow-capped peaks, it’s a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.
Personally, I love visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in the fall, when crowds and weathers are lower. Lake Haiyaha is my favorite hike in the park, located in the Bear Lake Road corridor.
Timed Entry
Reservations for the park are mandatory from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily for the entire park (excluding Bear Lake Road) from May 23 to October 13, 2025. You can enter the park before 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m. without a Timed Entry reservation.
A separate “Timed Entry and Bear Lake Road” reservation is needed to access the popular Bear Lake Road corridor from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, also from May 23 to October 19, 2025. If you only plan to visit Bear Lake Road after 6 p.m., you won’t need a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road reservation.
You can purchase these reservations on Recreation.gov. The only cost with timed entry reservations is a $2 Recreation.gov processing fee. This does not included the entry cost to the park!
These timed entries are very competitive. Slots become available the day before at 5pm MT. Be sure to set an alarm!
What to bring
Clothing:
Base Layers:
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts (avoid cotton)
- Thermal long-sleeve (especially for early mornings or high elevations)
- Moisture-wicking underwear and socks
Mid Layers:
- Fleece or lightweight down jacket
- Insulating hoodie or sweater
Outer Layers:
- Waterproof rain jacket (sudden storms are common)
- Windbreaker
- Hiking pants (convertible ones are handy)
Extras:
- Hat (sun or wool, depending on season)
- Gloves (lightweight or insulated)
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Swimsuit (for hotel hot tubs or nearby hot springs)
Gear & Safety Essentials:
- Daypack with hydration system or water bottles
- Trekking poles (especially for longer hikes or high-altitude trails)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Map and compass or GPS (cell service is spotty)
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Sunglasses (polarized are best)
- Lip balm with SPF
- First aid kit (blister care, ibuprofen, bandages, etc.)
- Insect repellent
- Emergency whistle
- Bear spray (if hiking in remote areas)
- Trash bags (pack it in, pack it out)
- High-protein snacks (trail mix, jerky, energy bars)
- Picnic lunch or pre-packed meals
- Water (at least 2–3 liters per person/day)
- Electrolyte tablets or drink mix
Downtown Estes Park
After a day on the trails, stroll through downtown Estes Park. You’ll find historic storefronts house art galleries, souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and cozy cafés.
Grab some homemade saltwater taffy, explore the local art scene, or enjoy live music along the Riverwalk. Try local trout, bison burgers, or head to a local brewery for a craft beer with a view.
Haunted History
If you’re into the supernatural (or just love a good story), make a stop at the Stanley Hotel. This historic hotel inspired Stephen King’s The Shining and offers both ghost tours and luxurious stays. Whether you’re there for the history or the hauntings, it’s a must-see.
The Stanley Hotel has been a coveted destination west of the Mississippi’s since the doors opened in 1909. Sophisticated (and maybe haunted), the hotel is now open year round and offers plenty for its guests and daily visitors.
To book a haunted room, consider rooms 207, 401, 407, and 428. 217 is the famous Stephen King Suite! These are the Stanley Hotel’s most requested rooms and availability is limited. I recommend booking in advance!
Watch out for Wildlife Encounters
Estes Park is one of the best places in Colorado to spot wildlife. Elk wander freely through town, especially in the fall during rutting season. There’s a possibility to also see bears, marmots, bighorn sheep, and more, so keep your camera ready.
On our first visit to Estes Park, we were driving around looking for a place to park. All of a sudden, a herd of Elk came trotting down through the town. Traffic was brought to a stop as all drivers watch the Elk.
Quick Travel Tips
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Estes Park is late spring through early fall (May to October). During this window, the weather is mild, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the scenic trails of Rocky Mountain National Park are fully accessible.
June through September is ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying vibrant mountain festivals.
Fall, especially mid-September to early October, brings stunning golden aspen foliage and fewer crowds. This is personally my favorite time to visit Estes Park.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or serene mountain beauty, this is when Estes Park shines brightest.
Altitude advice
If you’re new to Colorado and visiting briefly, I recommend Estes Park not being your first stop. Instead, spend a few days in Denver or Boulder to adjust to the elevation. With Estes Park being 7,522 feet above elevation, take it easy the first day to avoid altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness occurs when your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels at elevations. As altitude increases, the air becomes thinner, meaning there’s less oxygen available with each breath. The body needs time to acclimate, and if it doesn’t, symptoms may start to appear.
Where to stay
Haunted Experience: Stanley Hotel (mentioned earlier)
Budget: Wildwood Inn – Staying on a budget without compromising location and quality.
Mid-Range: Boulder Brook on Fall River – Beautiful location with a balcony overlooking the river, and easy access to the national park.
Splurge: Trailborn Rocky Mountains – The location of here is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
Estes Park is more than a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. Whether you’re chasing peaks, sipping coffee beside a mountain stream, or marveling at elk in the middle of town, Estes Park invites you to slow down and take it all in. It’s where adventure meets serenity—and where memories are made, one trail at a time.
