Nestled at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a charming mountain town that offers the perfect mix of nature, history, and small-town hospitality. If you’re in search of outdoor thrills, scenic drives, or cozy shops and cafés, Estes Park is the ideal base for adventure in northern Colorado.

Here’s your ultimate guide to things to do in Estes Park, from scenic hikes to spooky hotels and wildlife spotting.

Things to Do in Estes Park

1. Explore Downtown Estes Park

Start your visit in the heart of the town. Downtown Estes Park is lined with locally-owned boutiques, souvenir shops, art galleries, and ice cream parlors.

• Stroll along Elkhorn Avenue

• Grab a fresh cinnamon roll or locally roasted coffee

• Try homemade taffy or fudge from a classic candy shop

• Visit Estes Park Riverwalk for a peaceful walk by the Big Thompson River

2. Visit the Stanley Hotel

 

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Known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining, the Stanley Hotel is one of the most iconic landmarks in Estes Park.

• Take a ghost tour or historic walking tour

• Dine at the Cascades Restaurant & Lounge

• Stay overnight if you’re brave enough

Whether you’re a history buff or a horror fan, the Stanley is worth the stop.

3. Head into Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park is the main gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), one of the most visited national parks in the country.

• Drive the famous Trail Ridge Road (seasonal)

• Hike to Emerald Lake, Bear Lake, or Sky Pond

• Spot wildlife like elk, moose, marmots, and more

• Visit Moraine Park for epic views and elk sightings

4. Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Get a bird’s-eye view of the town by riding the Aerial Tramway to the summit of Prospect Mountain.

• Open from Memorial Day to early fall

• Offers stunning panoramic views of Estes Park and surrounding mountains

• Feed chipmunks at the top (they’re friendly, but don’t forget your trail mix!)

5. Go Wildlife Watching

Estes Park is famous for its elk herds, especially in the fall during the rutting season.

• Elk can often be seen in town, in parks, and on golf courses

• In early mornings and evenings, visit Moraine Park or Lake Estes for sightings

• Respect the animals: keep your distance and never feed them

6. Enjoy Lake Estes

Lake Estes offers peaceful recreation with a view.

• Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from the Lake Estes Marina

• Walk or bike the 3.75-mile trail that loops the lake

• Go fishing, the lake is stocked with trout

7. Take a Scenic Drive

Several beautiful drives start or pass through Estes Park:

• Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Stunning views of the Continental Divide

• Old Fall River Road (inside RMNP): One-way dirt road with hairpin turns and scenic pullouts

• Devil’s Gulch Road: Twisty road with beautiful canyon views

8. Go Horseback Riding

Explore the surrounding wilderness the old-fashioned way on horseback.

• Several stables in town offer guided rides through RMNP and Roosevelt National Forest

• Great for families, beginners, or experienced riders

• Most tours range from 1 hour to half-day trips

9. Hike the Gem Lake Trail

If you want a great view without entering RMNP, the Gem Lake Trail is a must.

• Distance: 3.4 miles round trip

• Elevation gain: ~1,000 feet

• Offers views of Estes Park and finishes at a beautiful lake nestled in the rocks

10. Visit the Estes Park Museum & Historical Sites

Want a break from the trails? Dive into the area’s rich cultural history.

• Estes Park Museum – Free entry, exhibits on early settlers, wildlife, and mountain culture

• MacGregor Ranch Museum – Historic working ranch that offers tours and a glimpse into 19th-century life

Bonus: Visit in Fall for the Elk Fest

Every fall, Estes Park hosts Elk Fest, a celebration of the annual elk rut and the wildlife that make the area famous.

• Live music, Native American dancers, elk education booths

• Bugling contests, arts and crafts, and local food vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the Park located?

The Park is located in northern Colorado, about 70 miles northwest of Denver, and serves as the main eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

2. What is Estes Park known for?

The Park is best known for its stunning mountain scenery, its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, abundant wildlife (especially elk), and the historic Stanley Hotel, which inspired The Shining.

3. What’s the best time to visit Estes Park?

The most popular months are June through October when the weather is mild and all roads and trails are open. Fall (September–October) is especially beautiful for foliage and elk watching, while winter offers snowshoeing and a quieter experience.

4. How do I get to Estes Park?

• By car: The most common route is via Highway 36 from Boulder or Highway 34 from Loveland.

• From Denver International Airport: About a 1.5–2 hour drive.

5. Is Estes Park inside Rocky Mountain National Park?

No, Estes Park is a town located just outside the park. The entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park (Beaver Meadows Entrance) is just a few minutes west of the town.

6. What are some popular things to do in Estes Park?

• Strolling downtown and along the Riverwalk

• Exploring the Stanley Hotel

• Taking a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway

• Visiting Lake Estes for boating, walking, and fishing

• Hiking in nearby national park trails

• Shopping and dining in local boutiques and restaurants

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re chasing epic views, looking for wildlife, or simply soaking in the fresh mountain air, Estes Park has something for everyone. It’s more than a stop before Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s a destination in its own right, filled with charm, adventure, and natural wonder.