Beautiful Estes Park Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park

Updated April 2024

Estes Park is the Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, easily accessed from Denver International Airport. The drive to Estes Park will take you approximately one hour and 40 minutes if you drive directly to Estes Park. Our intention had been to drive the Peak to Peak trail. I would suggest that if you have the time to do the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, a two-hour drive from Golden to Estes Park that passes grand mountain views, historic sites, and old ghost towns and, offers plenty of places to stop for photographs of the gorgeous scenery. 

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Getting From Denver to Estes Park:

The closest major airport to Estes Park is Denver International Airport (DEN), which is about 70 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use public transportation to reach Estes Park. Immediately after arriving, we decided to stop to get our groceries and fill the cooler. We decided taking the E-470 paying the tolls was the fastest way to travel to Estes Park. At this point, we both were suffering from altitude sickness. Although we had altitude sickness pills, we did not front-load. I suggest that if you are coming from sea level, take the pills before you board your flight. It will save you!

An alternative route if you are driving, you can reach Estes Park via US-36 from Boulder (peak-to-peak trail), CO or Denver, CO, and US-34 from Loveland, CO. The roads leading to Estes Park are scenic, but can be winding and steep in some areas. No matter how you choose to get there, the journey to Estes Park is sure to be filled with breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure.

What should You Packing Before You Go to the Rocky Mountains?

One suggestion here; if you are planning on visiting over one national park, it is worthwhile to purchase the Annual Pass ($80). It is well worth the price! Beginning in 2023, Rocky Mountain National Park moved to cashless payments at entrances and campgrounds for all fees and payments.I would also suggest packing for the weather and elevation changes you encounter as you travel through the park. Be prepared with a good jacket, a hat, and long pants. Invest in a rugged pair of walking or hiking shoes. Remember to pack some snacks and have water before going up any trail. All the visitor centers in the park have stations for refillable water bottles.

Navigating Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry System

In response to increased visitation and the need to manage the number of visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park, the park has implemented a timed entry system. Here’s what you need to know:

1. The timed entry system requires visitors to make a reservation for a specific date and time to enter the park.
2. Reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, and there is a non-refundable reservation fee of $2 per vehicle.
3. The timed entry system is in effect from May 27 through mid-October.
4. Visitors can enter the park anytime during their reserved time slot, but they must enter the park within the hour specified on their reservation.
5. Visitors who have camping or lodging reservations within the park are not required to make a separate reservation for entry.
6. Annual pass holders and commercial tour operators are also required to make a reservation, but there is no additional fee.
7. The timed entry system is designed to reduce congestion, protect natural and cultural resources, and provide a better visitor experience.

Estes Park Prime Access to Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park is a gateway town to the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and there are several ways to access the park from Estes Park. Here are some options for prime access to Rocky Mountain National Park:

1. Beaver Meadows Visitor Center: This is the main visitor center of Rocky Mountain National Park, located just 3 miles from Estes Park. From here, you can explore the park’s trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing areas. The visitor center offers maps, information, and exhibits about the park’s natural and cultural history.
2. Bear Lake Corridor/Trailhead: This is a popular trailhead located about 10 miles from Estes Park, offering access to several trails, including the Bear Lake Loop, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake. The trailhead is at an elevation of 9,475 feet, and the area is known for its stunning alpine scenery and diverse wildlife.
3. Fall River Entrance Station: This entrance is located on the park’s east side, about 1.5 miles from Estes Park. From here, you can access several hiking trails, including the Horseshoe Park Trail, Alluvial Fan Trail, and Old Fall River Road. The Fall River Visitor Center is also nearby, offering exhibits, ranger-led programs, and information about the park.
4. Trail Ridge Road: This scenic drive is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet at the Alpine Visitor Center. The road starts at Estes Park and goes through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views of the park’s peaks, valleys, and meadows.

Welcome to Estes Park, Colorado: Journey to the Gateway of Rocky Mountain National Park

Nestled in a valley at 7,522 feet above sea level, Estes Park looks like I imagine Switzerland would be. The first views are spectacular as you descend into this quaint mountain village.

Interesting facts we learned about Estes Park:

1. Joel Estes, a homesteader who built a cabin in the area, founded the town in 1859.
2. Estes Park became popular as a summer resort town in the late 1800s and early 1900s, attracting wealthy visitors who came to enjoy the mountain air and scenery.
3. The town is located at the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States.
4. Estes Park is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining,” and the historic Park Theatre, which dates back to 1913.
5. The town is known for its wildlife, including elk, deer, coyotes, and bears, which can often be seen wandering through town.
6. Scarfs on poles/trees: the town places extra scarfs on poles and trees so that the homeless or disadvantage will stay warm in winter. Nice touch!
7. Estes Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
8. The town is also known for its arts and culture scene, with several galleries, studios, and performance venues showcasing local artists and musicians.
9. The population of Estes Park is around 6,000, but it swells to over 30,000 during the summer months as tourists flock to the area.

The Estes Park Visitor’s Center is Key to Locale Information

Whenever we visit a new locale, we always make a point to drop into a visitor or welcome center. This should be your first stop for general information and area updates. It is a one-stop-shop for visitors who want to explore the town and its surrounding areas. The center provides a wealth of information about things to do and see in Estes Park, including local attractions, outdoor activities, lodging options, and dining recommendations. Visitors can also obtain maps, brochures, and other resources to help plan their stay.

In addition to providing information, the Estes Park Visitor’s Center also hosts events and exhibits throughout the year to showcase the town’s history, culture, and natural beauty. We also walked through the gift shop. Here you can purchase souvenirs, gifts, and other items. The Visitor Center has clean restrooms. The center is open Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm and Sunday 10 am-4 pm thru summer.

Accessing the Shuttles & Trolley in Estes Park

The Visitor Center is the central hub for shuttle buses to RMNP and the trolley to downtown. The Estes Park Trolley is a historic red trolley that offers narrated tours of Estes Park. The tour includes stops at popular attractions such as the Stanley Hotel, Lake Estes, and the downtown shopping district. Visitors can hop on and off the trolley throughout the day to explore the town on their own. The trolley operates from May to September.

The Rocky Mountain National Park Shuttle is a free shuttle service that operates during the summer months (late May to early October). The shuttle runs from the Estes Park Visitor Center to various points within the park, including the Bear Lake Trailhead, Moraine Park Discovery Center, and Glacier Gorge Trailhead.

The Estes Park Free Shuttles are a set of free shuttles that operate throughout the town during the summer months (late May to early September). The shuttles run on four different routes and make stops at popular attractions, lodging options, and shopping areas.

Cruise the Estes Park Riverwalk & Avenues

We enjoyed this walk after visiting the Estes Park Visitor Center. The Riverwalk runs runs along the Big Thompson River the length of downtown Estes Park and parallels the main street. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the river, twice during our stay. the Riverwalk also connects to several of Estes Park’s main avenues, including Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue. These avenues are lined with quaint shops, art galleries, various restaurants-coffee shops.

The Estes Park Riverwalk is not just a walk, there is a tunnel with laser lighting, chimes, and interactive percussion instruments along the way. There are plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the water view, take pictures, or plan your next activity. I would definitely recommend setting aside some time to have a little stroll, do a little shopping, or just have a break and enjoy nature alongside the beautiful Fall River.

Estes Park Aerial Tramway A Ticket to the Top of the World

They built the tramway in 1955. The price of the trip is very reasonable. The tramway ascends to the summit of Prospect Mountain, which is over 8,000 feet above sea level. During the seven-minute ride, visitors can take in panoramic views of Estes Park, the Continental Divide, and Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s most famous fourteeners.

We explored the observation deck with spectacular 360 degrees views of the Colorado Rockies. There is a lovely gift shop and snack bar to purchase drinks and refreshments. If you bring peanuts, you will feed the chipmunks. There are a few trails to walk and you can take your time and enjoy the view. When you are ready, you can make the return trip at your leisure.

The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is open year-round, weather permitting. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy extended hours, with the tramway staying open until 9 pm, offering incredible views of the sunset over the mountains.

Estes Park Admittance to a Landmark: The Stanley Hotel

Stanley Hotel is in Estes Park, do not miss a morning stroll of the grounds. the hotel is best known for its association with Stephen King’s novel “The Shining.” King stayed at the hotel in 1974 and was inspired by its eerie atmosphere to write the novel, which was later adapted into a film by Stanley Kubrick. The hotel offers daily guided tours, including a “spirited” tour that explores the hotel’s paranormal history.

You can book luxurious accommodations here quite expensive, but it is the experience that you are paying for, priceless. The hotel has 142 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated and furnished with period antiques. They also offer several dining options, including the upscale Cascades Restaurant and the more casual Whiskey Bar & Lounge.

They charge $10 to park, but if you arrive before 8 am you can park and walk-no charge. The beautifully maintained grounds incorporate small courtyards and flowing water. In the morning, it was quiet. The beginnings of a small maze garden are underway, just like in the movie. However, it will be impressive in a few more years. The view of the RMNP is impressive. We did not have time to take a tour of the inside of the hotel. I would suggest doing a tour if time permits. It is well worth taking the time to stop and experience the hotel.

Where to Stay in Estes Park – Accommodations

You can find abundant accommodations including hotels, lodges, condos, or cabins. Estes Park has a number of hotels and resorts, including the historic Stanley Hotel, which is famous for its association with Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Other popular options include The Ridgeline Hotel, The Estes Park Resort, and The Stanley Hotel’s Lodge.

For a more rustic and secluded experience, visitors can rent a cabin or cottage in Estes Park. There are numerous options available, ranging from small, cozy cabins to spacious luxury cottages. Some popular cabin rental companies include Estes Park Central, Windcliff Properties, and Rocky Mountain Resorts.

There are also a number of vacation rentals available in Estes Park, including apartments, condos, and townhomes. These are a great option for families or groups of friends who want to stay together and have more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room. Popular vacation rental websites include Airbnb and VRBO.

Estes Park is surrounded by natural beauty, and camping is a popular way to experience it. There are several campgrounds in the area, including Rocky Mountain National Park’s campsites, which offer breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails.

Loveland Heights Cottages-Fishing at Your Doorway

We stayed at Loveland Heights Cottages located just far enough outside of Estes Park (5 min. drive) on US-34. This is an ideal location for those that want to be close to the park, yet is peaceful & quiet. The cottages are a wonderful rustic place to kick back and relax. In the family-owned and operated resort, we found the owner Beverly to be pleasant, friendly, and well informed. Cottages are clean and cozy. Each cottage is unique, furnished with modern amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen. Some have a fireplace, and one even has a private hot tub on the deck.

We loved the stunning views from our back deck of the rising mountains. The sound of the river helped to lull us to sleep. We had to close the windows during the night as the temperature dipped into the 40s and use the space heater to warm the room (definitely not Florida). Taking morning coffee on the deck was priceless!!

Our Dining Experience in Estes Park

Be sure to have lunch at Penelope’s World Famous Burgers & Fries. As the name suggests, their specialty is burgers and fries, known for their delicious, made-to-order burgers. At Penelope’s, guests can choose from a variety of burgers, including classic cheeseburgers, bacon cheeseburgers, elk or bison burgers and mushroom Swiss burgers. The atmosphere at Penelope’s is casual and fun, with a retro diner vibe. Downtown Estes Park can be really busy, and if you eat anywhere downtown, you will probably have to wait a bit for your food. Barry had the delicious hot dog. I was not so hungry, so sat beside the Riverwalk and enjoyed the mountain and river views.

In Estes Park, we took breakfast at the Egg of Estes each morning based on reviews we read on TripAdvisor. This breakfast and brunch spot is a local favorite, serving up classic breakfast dishes such as omelets, pancakes, and waffles. They also offer lunch options like sandwiches and salads. We arrived when it opened at 6 am; the menu has a wide selection, although it is a bit pricey. Be sure to have the oatmeal pancakes with fruit; well worth the price (gluten-free), they also include eggs and toast. The last day we decided on a breakfast sandwich and coffee, both very good.  

A Taste of Colorado at a Down to Earth Pub

Dinner in the evening was the Wapiti Pub in the heart of downtown Estes Park. There is a laid back atmosphere here. The pub has indoor and outdoor seating, with a spacious patio area that offers views of the Rocky Mountains. The Wapiti Pub also hosts live music on weekends, featuring local and regional artists. The menu at the Wapiti Pub features classic pub fare with a Colorado twist. Selections include burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees such as grilled trout and bison meatloaf.

The Wapiti Pub is also known for its extensive beer selection. They have over 30 beers on tap, including local Colorado brews and a rotating selection of seasonal and specialty beers. Barry had the Colorado Native Amber Lager, and I had the Red Sangria (they mix it at your table). Our entrees included: Wapiti Red Chili, Colorado Cheese Steak and Fish & Chips all were excellent.

Other Notable Dining Options in Estes Park

Here are some of the most popular dining spots in the area:

1. The Stanley Hotel’s Cascades Restaurant: Located in the historic Stanley Hotel, Cascades offers upscale dining with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and an extensive wine list.
2. Ed’s Cantina & Grill: This casual Mexican restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Guests can enjoy tacos, burritos, and margaritas on the outdoor patio.
3. Poppy’s Pizza and Grill: Poppy’s is a family-friendly restaurant that serves wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and salads. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options.
4. Twin Owls Steakhouse: This upscale steakhouse offers a romantic setting with views of Twin Owls rock formation. Guests can enjoy prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.
5. Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ: Smokin’ Dave’s is a popular spot for barbecue lovers, serving up delicious meats and sides. They also have a selection of craft beers and live music on weekends.
6. Claire’s on the Park: This elegant restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available.

Final Thought on Our Estes Park Getaway to Rocky Mountian National Park

We loved that Estes Park is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery, including Rocky Mountain National Park. When planning your vacation, be sure to take advantage of the many hiking trails, scenic drives, and outdoor activities available in the area.

Explore the charming downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore. Take some time to wander the streets and enjoy the small-town atmosphere. It’s also important to take some time to relax and unwind. Whether it’s sitting by the Big Thompson river or enjoying a sunset view, be sure to take some time for yourself during your trip.

Have you been to Estes Park? Let us know what you did on your adventure in the Park. Please comment below, share what you found to be the best activities!