Centered amongst nature's dramatic beauty sits the quaint, folky town of Estes Park, Colorado. About an hour and a half drive from Denver, this wildlife retreat is quietly nestled in the foothills of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Sip your morning coffee among the grazing elk, hike your way up to one of the highest peaks in the nation and dare to plan a ghostly visit to the Stanley Hotel where Stephen King stayed and drew inspiration for The Shining. For quiet, nature-loving solo travelers, Estes Park is the trip to book. Here are 10 things to do and see in Estes Park, Colorado.
By Allyson Cochran
Rocky Mountain National Park
Nature-loving travelers will relish the quiet walks, gorgeous sunsets and wildlife watching of the idyllic Rocky Mountain National Park. You may even luck out and spot some of the locals that call the park home: elk, bighorn sheep, moose and many other delightful creatures.
From nearly unending hiking trails to jaw-dropping views 14,000 feet into the sky, it’ll be a day trip like no other.
Horseback Riding
For those with an adventurous spirit, horseback riding offers a true mountainous experience among the scenic Rocky Mountain trails. Tours can give insight into the natural and cultural history of the area.
If you're a novice, don't worry; the local outfitters will pair you with a horse appropriate for your skill level, and you can always take a shorter ride. It is undoubtedly a beautiful way to observe the wildlife and magnificent scenery.
Estes Park Trolleys
Reminiscent of the 1920s, the elegant, vintage-inspired Estes Park Trolleys are a fun and unique way to tour the breathtaking Estes Park area. Don’t forget to bring your camera because you’ll pass through a treasure trove of natural wonders — from the alpine tundra to the snowcapped mountains.
Stanley Hotel
Holding a certain old-world charm, the Stanley Hotel is hard to miss. This colonial-style milky-white hotel sits brilliantly against its mountainous backdrop.
Book and movie lovers especially will find it exciting as the location served as inspiration for the Overlook Hotel in Stephen King’s bestselling novel The Shining and subsequent 1980 film adaptation. Today, it offers guided tours that cover the history and purported paranormal activity of the location, as well as a restaurant, spa and bed-and-breakfast.
Downtown Estes Park
There’s nothing quite like a stroll through Downtown Estes Park. The crisp mountain air, charming shops, and a welcoming committee of wandering wildlife make it seem like a scene taken from a Disney movie. Peaks as tall as 14,000 feet circle all around and render gorgeous views in every direction. Heading to one of many nearby patios is a picture-perfect way to enjoy these panoramas.
Did I mention good food and locally made wine? Quietly tucking away for a meal near a roaring fire is a cheerful, cosy end-cap to your day.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
A charming, old-fashioned shop, the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory will satisfy your traveling sweet tooth. This locally-owned, family-run gourmet chocolate boutique is just the cutest — and you’ll find yourself wandering back each chance you get. Is there a better way to end an adventurous day than with a cosy, warm cup of hot chocolate and a chocolate-dipped brownie?
Park Theatre
Constructed in 1913, this theatre in the heart of Downtown is the oldest operating cinema west of the Mississippi River. The 80-foot neon-outlined tower is nicknamed “The Tower of Love” as the owner built it to represent the love of his life, his wife Mary. The theatre was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
A historic visit to catch the latest flick or delightful classic will turn into a treasured memory.
Coffee on the Rocks
You’ll be doing a double take at this charming coffee shop because at first glance, it looks like any other ordinary mountainous cabin in the area. Located near an adorable pond, you can enjoy a toasted marshmallow latte whilst mingling with local quacking ducks and mallards. You’ll also not want to miss the delicious veggie breakfast burritos and chocolate raspberry scones.
Boating at Lake Estes
A perfect opportunity to enjoy a peaceful afternoon, Lake Estes spreads across 185 acres to the east of Downtown Estes Park. At the Lake Estes Marina, travelers can rent canoes, lake kayaks and paddle boats. Once on the water, take in the spectacular view of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Be whisked away and get a bird’s eye view of the peak of Prospect Mountain — an elevation of almost 9,000 feet. The tram just needs five minutes to reach the summit, and once there, there are numerous hiking routes to discover, breathtaking vistas to take in and friendly chipmunks to feed.
Save the list for later!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Horseback Riding
Estes Park Trolleys
Stanley Hotel
Downtown Estes Park
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Park Theatre
Coffee on the Rocks
Boating at Lake Estes
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
