If you’re dreaming of jaw-dropping mountain views, winding roads lined with evergreens, and the kind of scenic beauty that makes your heart skip a beat, welcome to Estes Park! It’s the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and home to some of the most exhilarating scenic drives in Colorado. Buckle up and join us on exploring our favorite spots for an Estes Park scenic drive.
1. Trail Ridge Road – America’s Highest Continuous Paved Highway
Let’s kick things off with the crown jewel: Trail Ridge Road. Stretching 48 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake, this highway soars to over 12,000 feet! It’s a thrilling ride through alpine tundra, with panoramic views that make every mile magical. Be sure to stop at the Alpine Visitor Center for epic photos and a chance to spot marmots or even a herd of elk!
2. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway – A Vivid Tapestry of Nature
Craving a combo of mountain vistas, historic towns, and aspen-covered hillsides? Take the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. Starting in Estes Park, this route winds south through Allenspark, Nederland, and down to Black Hawk. It’s especially mesmerizing in autumn when golden leaves light up the road like fire.
3. Old Fall River Road – The Hidden Gem of RMNP
For a more rugged adventure, Old Fall River Road delivers. This one-way, dirt road climbs slowly up to the Alpine Visitor Center with hairpin turns and intimate encounters with nature. Open seasonally (usually July to September), it’s less crowded than Trail Ridge and equally stunning.
4. Bear Lake Road – Beauty Around Every Bend
Bear Lake Road is a short but breathtaking drive that leads to some of RMNP’s most famous trailheads, including Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, and Moraine Park. Along the way, you’ll find countless photo ops and possibly a moose or two if you’re lucky!
Stay at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
Complete your visit to Estes Park in 2025 with a stay at the Alpine Trail Ridge Inn. Our updated hotel is just a few minutes from the Beaver Meadows entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and a short drive to downtown Estes Park. Our cozy rooms feature rustic modern mountain decor and beautiful mountain views, complete with today’s amenities to make you feel at home.
Plus, we are also minutes from dining, breweries, and our favorite Estes Park coffee shops. So enjoy the best of both worlds when you book with Alpine Trail Ridge Inn!
