Sitting at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a small mountain town that has a lot to offer for the outdoor enthusiast or a quiet getaway for those who desire a peaceful vacation. There are endless opportunities for hiking, biking, dining, shopping, and so much that when planning your Estes Park vacation there are a few helpful tips to consider.
Getting there
There are several ways in which you can get to Estes Park:
By car
The fastest route is via I-25 to U.S. 36 E from Denver. In Estes Park, U.S. 36 meets up with U.S. 34, with the Big Thompson Canyon and continues through Rocky Mountain National Park to Granby and Grand Lake. The drive is an estimated an hour and a half from the central part of Denver.
By plane
The closest airport to Estes Park is the Denver International Airport. If you plan to rent a car the fastest route from DIA to Estes Park is via E470 (a toll road), connecting to 1-25 North, to U.S. 36 E. If you do not plan to rent a car, there is an Estes Park Shuttle that connects you from the airport to Estes Park, which is roughly a two-hour drive.
Be prepared for changing weather
The number one thing to be prepared for during your Estes Park vacation is the changing weather. In the spring and fall months it is common for it to be 60 degrees and sunny one day and then freezing with snow the next day. Temperatures during the spring and fall in Estes Park can range from mid-40s to mid-70s during the day, cooling off about 20 degrees in the evening.
During the winter Estes Park can experience substantial snowfall and single digit temperatures. While in the summer Estes Park can reach as high as 85 degrees, with cooler evenings dipping as low as 40 degrees.
Regardless of the time of year you visit be sure to check the forecast and come prepared for changing weather.
Estes Park Visitor Center
Upon arrival in Estes Park be sure to stop in at the visitor center. Here you will find all the information you might need to plan your weekend in Estes Park. Do note they have seasonal hours with summer hours (starting Memorial Day weekend) Monday through Saturday – 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Location: 500 Big Thompson Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517
Things to do in Estes Park
When it comes to deciding on things to do in Estes Park, there is plenty to choose from. From hiking and biking in the summer to skiing and snow-tubing in the winter there is something for everyone and every season. Find an Estes Park activity that speaks to you or try something you have never done before – a great way to add some adventure to your Estes Park vacation.
Estes Park Events
When planning your Estes Park vacation be sure to plan around the many events and happenings that take place each year. From whiskey tastings and wine festivals to live concerts and art shows, there is always something to plan for. Read here for these upcoming Estes Park events.
Getting around
Driving around Estes Park is easy to do but if you wish to rely on other modes of transportation there are several options available. There are FREE Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park shuttles that makes it easy to get around town and not have to worry about parking.
Estes Park, CO accommodations
As you start planning your Estes Park vacation, be sure to browse our accommodations at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn and enjoy the best that Estes Park has to offer. Just minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park, Alpine Trail Ridge Inn is an excellent choice to relax and unwind amongst the beauty of The Rockies. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Colorado mountain life with all the convenient amenities of home with a stay at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn.
