Top 10 Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado 2024

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park is a haven for adventurers. While Rocky Mountain National Park is the crown jewel of the area's outdoor attractions, there's so much more to explore. You can take in the breathtaking scenery from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or discover the stunning landscapes on one of the best horseback riding tours in the region. If you're in the mood for indoor activities, consider a tour of the historic Stanley Hotel or a visit to the Estes Park Museum. When it's time to pick up some local souvenirs, stroll along Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue, where you'll find a variety of unique shops. For those visiting in warmer weather, renting a boat at Lake Estes Marina or booking a whitewater rafting adventure are great ways to enjoy the outdoors. Another option is to plan an adventure with Kent Mountain Adventure Center. Whether you're drawn to the wilderness or looking for a memorable experience, Estes Park offers something special for everyone. Stick around for useful tips at the end of this video. Make sure to hit the subscribe button and keep watching. 1. The Stanley Hotel If you're a fan of Stephen King, a visit to the Stanley Hotel is a must. This historic hotel inspired King to write his iconic novel The Shining. While the movie adaptation wasn't filmed here, the TV version was adding to the hotel's eerie allure. Celebrating over 100 years, the Stanley is a landmark in its own right. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers stunning views overlooking downtown Estes Park. You can choose to stay the night, but even if you're just visiting, the hotel's history and cultural significance are worth exploring. If you're intrigued by the supernatural, consider joining the Night Spirit Tour for a thrilling experience. The Stanley Hotel is best appreciated on a day visit, where you can soak in its rich history and beautiful architecture. 2. Estes Park Aerial Tramway A ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway is a must-do if you're visiting between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Operating since 1955, this tramway takes you up to the summit of Prospect Mountain, offering unobstructed views and fantastic photo opportunities. Designed after the European free-span tram model, the tramway has no towers between the base and the summit, ensuring you get a clear view of the surrounding landscape. From the top, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide. There are also hiking trails and a cafe at the summit, making it a perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Estes Park. 3. Rocky Mountain National Park Spanning over 250,000 acres, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see for nature lovers. The park boasts 124 named peaks, drawing visitors for camping, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. Even if you're not an outdoor enthusiast, you can still enjoy a scenic drive or a picnic while taking in the stunning views. In the winter, the park offers activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding, making it a year-round destination. Wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, roam the forests and lakes, ensuring every visit is memorable. The park is also known for its extensive trail system, with around 355 miles of trails to explore. Avid hikers might enjoy the challenging Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail, a 10-mile route that offers increasingly rewarding views as you climb. For more information on Rocky Mountain National Park, including the best hikes, check out the links in the description below. Number four, Lake Estes Marina. Lake Estes, located on the main road into downtown Estes Park, offers a variety of year-round activities, especially popular during the summer. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or even pontoon boats from the Lake Estes Marina to explore the water. The lake is also stocked with trout, making it a great spot for fishing. If you prefer to stay on land, the 3.75-mile loop trail around the lake, known as the Lake Estes Trail, is perfect for hiking or biking. The trail offers spectacular views of the continental divide and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Along the way, you might spot some local wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and possibly even bears. Number five, Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is Colorado's oldest scenic byway, and it recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. This 55-mile drive, which begins in Estes Park and winds its way to Central City, offers some of the most stunning views in the state. The route takes you through towering peaks and lush forests, providing a way to experience Colorado's mountain scenery at its best without the crowds. Along the way, you'll pass through charming small towns, including the historic Victorian-era mining town of Central City. The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a quintessential Colorado drive, perfect for those looking to soak in the beauty of the Rockies. Number six, Horseback Riding. Horseback riding in Estes Park is an unforgettable way to experience the region's natural beauty. Jackson Stables, part of the Estes Park Center YMCA, offers a range of horseback riding experiences within Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you're looking for a short trail ride or a full-day adventure, there's something for everyone. As you ride through glacial basins, meadows of wildflowers, and other stunning landscapes, you'll have plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and unwind. Horseback riding is a classic Colorado activity, and Estes Park is one of the best places to enjoy it. Number seven, Whitewater Rafting. During Colorado's warm months, whitewater rafting is a popular activity as the state's rivers swell with snowmelt. While there are several rafting companies in nearby Fort Collins, Rapid Transit Rafting is the only one based in Estes Park. The level of difficulty varies by river and launch point, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable adventure. Past visitors have praised Rapid Transit Rafting for its excellent guides, scenic routes, and the overall experience, with some calling it the highlight of their trip to Colorado. The scenery is spectacular, and you might even spot wildlife like bald eagles. If you're planning a rafting trip, don't forget to bring a change of clothes. You're guaranteed to get soaked. Number eight, Estes Park ATV Rentals. For a thrilling off-road adventure, consider renting an ATV in Estes Park. Estes Park ATV Rentals offers unguided rentals, allowing you to explore the area's rugged trails at your own pace. With maps, helmets, and gas included, all you need is your driver's license to get started. The ATVs are conveniently parked on the trail, so you can jump right into your adventure without any delays. Number nine, Estes Park Museum. History enthusiasts will love the Estes Park Museum, which chronicles the rich history of the area. The museum's collection includes around 30,000 objects, from historic photographs and postcards to furniture and tools. One of the highlights is the 1909 model EX Stanley Steamer Runabout, a steam-powered car that's a true piece of automotive history. The museum also preserves several historic structures, including a cabin from 1908 and a National Park headquarters building, which served as the center of operations for Rocky Mountain National Park from 1915 to 1923. A visit to the museum begins with a historical video that provides an overview of Estes Park, making it a great starting point for your exploration of the area. The Estes Park Museum is free to visit and is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Number 10, Open Air Adventure Park. For a unique outdoor experience, head to the Open Air Adventure Park in Estes Park. This adventure park offers 32 different challenges, ranging in difficulty, making it a fun activity for all ages. You'll find everything from moving platforms and tightrope walks to rope bridges and zip lines, some of which are up to 21 feet above the ground. Safety is a top priority, with harnesses and knowledgeable staff ensuring that everyone can enjoy the activities safely. The course is self-guided, so you can take your time and enjoy each obstacle at your own pace. Open Air Adventure Park is a fantastic way to spend a day in Estes Park, offering excitement and adventure in a beautiful outdoor setting. In addition to these top attractions, Estes Park offers plenty more for adventure lovers. Take a walking tour and shop along Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue, or visit the Kent Mountain Adventure Center, McGregor Ranch Museum, Historic Park Theater and Cafe, Fun City, Estes Park Memorial Observatory, and more. For winter visitors, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities. The options are endless in Estes Park, so be sure to check out the town's website for more information. All necessary links are provided in the description. Thank you for watching. If you enjoyed this video, please support us by liking, commenting, sharing, and subscribing to our channel. Your support helps us create more content to guide your adventures. See you in the next video.