As 2025 comes into its final months it is also time for the most exciting time of the year to begin. The holidays have arrived, and for many travelers, their holiday plans include visiting Estes Park and staying in our Voyago Vacation Rentals seasonal sanctuaries! Offering crisp and cold weather, snowy days and nights, and all of the beauty that accompanies the holiday season, you may wonder however, what you should pack to ensure that you stay cozy and warm while also remaining the stylish icon that you have always been considered. Our guide to what to pack for a holiday getaway in Estes Park will ensure that no wrong steps will be taken during your unforgettable Colorado trip of a lifetime!
Snoopy Has the Right Idea
We will start with a list of outerwear that will help keep you warm, dry, and comfortable during your outdoor adventures, and if you have visited any home décor store over the last year or so, you will absolutely understand what we mean when we say Snoopy has the right idea. Puffer Jacket Snoopy is all the rage in holiday décor, and in Estes Park, it is also all the rage in outdoor clothing! Somehow managing to be warm while also managing to be light and easily packed, this miracle piece of clothing comes in all colors, including a simply adorable metallic green that we caught sight of during our recent travels.
If you are going to be hiking or doing some cross-country skiing, it is also important to pack snow pants, waterproof boots, hats, and gloves. Micro spikes are another important accessory, slipping over your boots and helping provide traction that will enable you to stay on your feet.
Christmas Sweaters Are Always Fun
Feeling jolly over the Christmas season is even easier when you pack your favorite Christmas sweater or sweatshirt, and we sincerely believe that not all Christmas sweaters are ugly ones, but even the ugly ones can be fun! Daytime life in Estes Park is casual—who dresses up to play outside, after all?—and if your Elf sweater is your favorite and is warm and comfy, we definitely believe you should pack it. This is also a great time of year to pull your favorite corduroy pants out of storage, and yes, if you are planning on spending on any time at all outside playing, don’t forget your long underwear, a cold weather essential that has come a long way in terms of style. Olympic skier Kari Traa Rose offers an extremely warm set that comes in many colors and is adorned with such cute graphics, you may be tempted to wear the top on the outside! Wool or wool blend socks can help ensure that your feet stay nice and toasty, no matter how low the mercury plunges.
Holiday Events to Consider
We’ve already discussed tossing some of your favorite Christmas sweaters in your suitcase, but as the Estes Park Holiday Wine Festival takes place on November 29th, you might want to pack some of your cuter winter clothes as well. Honestly, anything goes in the style department at this exciting festival, but we know you want to look cute, so pack that wine-colored silk blouse, tuck your Ralph Lauren jeans into those brand new knee-high boots you found that offer a square chunky heel that is comfortable to walk in! You will be the belle of the wine festival, without looking like you tried to hard!
And although there isn’t a fancy New Year’s Eve soiree held in Estes Park, Charle’s Dicken’s Conjuring is a special magic show offered at Aiden’s Sinclair’s Underground, and you may want to include some nice going out wear if you are planning to attend the New Year’s Eve show! Boots (with chunky, not spike heels) are going to be your best choices for footwear, as sidewalks can get slippery after night fall.
What to Wear While Hanging Out at Home in Your Voyago Vacation Rentals Holiday Hideaway
There is something wonderful about spending a snowy night at home, especially when your rental offers a fireplace, so be sure to pack comfy at-home clothes, including cozy and colorful pajamas. Maybe you will gather around the dining room table to play Candyland with your toddlers at Christmas, and everyone knows that the best dressed families are always wearing matching pajamas. Or maybe your idea of a beautiful winter evening at home will involve Irish coffee, a roaring fire, and a Hallmark Christmas movie playing on the big screen television. Our winter Estes Park cabin rentals offer all of the above (and so much more), and your cozy jammies that you wear will take up very little room in your luggage. Reach out to us to reserve your favorite holiday hideaway today!
While a weekend away in Estes Park is always inspiring, and a week-long family trip this way can be equally appealing, Estes Park is also the perfect spot for a month-long escape. Travelers with a bit more time to spare here will find that Estes Park is a refreshing, beautiful, and inviting place to enjoy a month away from home. Whether you’re looking to slow down, work while traveling, or take time away with those you love most, an Estes Park vacation has everything you need to make the most of the experience.
It’s a Haven of Opportunity for Remote-Working Professionals
If you’re someone who works in a remote capacity, and you’re looking for a new view to keep you inspired, a month-long escape to Estes Park is exactly what you need. Here, you can enjoy the refreshing experience of waking up each day surrounded by incredible scenery and reminders that when the workday is done, there’s so much waiting to be experienced and explored outdoors.
When you book your month-long getaway to Estes Park through Voyago Vacation Rentals, you’ll be delighted to find that our cabins, homes, and condos here are set up with dependable Wi-Fi and often host dedicated workspaces as well. Feeling right at home is a breeze, especially when you book a stay within walking distance of some of Estes Park’s fan-favorite coffee shops, bookstores, restaurants, boutiques, and more! Even your lunch breaks can be customized to include time in nature here, with options to enjoy a walk along the Big Thompson River midday, working as a revitalizing choice.
You Can Discover Rocky Mountain National Park at Your Own Pace
When you only have a short time to spare in Estes Park in the name of vacation fun, there’s a tendency to feel pressure when it comes to making sure you see as much of your surroundings as possible within that timeframe. Fortunately, this just isn’t the case when you have a full month to explore! When you treat yourself to this kind of trip, it gives you the time you truly deserve to discover places like Rocky Mountain National Park at your own pace. This is often one of the biggest draws for travelers heading to Estes Park, and a month gives you plenty of time to pick and choose just how many of the 350 miles of hiking trails here you’re going to explore with a camera and binoculars in hand. A month-long escape to Estes Park means you don’t have to leave a sunrise hike to Dream Lake off your list, or miss out on those scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to enjoy several weeks of wildlife watching when you’re hoping to spot everything from bighorn sheep and mule deer to elk, along the way.
There Are Options to Really Embrace the Small-Town Charm
Estes Park has earned a reputation for excellence among travelers for the easy access it provides to time in the great outdoors. That said, a month-long escape this way gives visitors time to really embrace the small-town charm they’ll enjoy here, too. When you have a month to spare for vacation, you have options to spend a significant amount of time exploring downtown. Here, you can enjoy your time hopping between impressive art galleries and admiring work that’s crafted by local talent. This area also hosts weekly farmers markets to browse, boutique shops to explore, and a variety of places to simply settle in and make the most of people watching as well.
A Month of Wellness and Reflection Goes a Long Way
If you’ve decided to enjoy a month-long escape to Estes Park so you can focus on wellness and reflection, far from the hustle of life, it’s a destination that never fails to inspire. Spending a month within easy reach of the relaxing solitude the mountains provide means you can spend afternoons in tranquility writing, journaling, or meditating uninterrupted. Aspiring and seasoned nature photographers will find a month in Estes Park might be just what they need to re-awaken their creative spirit while capturing incredible surroundings on camera.
Over at the Art Center of Estes Park, there are also opportunities for those looking to learn something new to sign up for a creative workshop during their month away. If you find that starting each day with yoga puts you in the right state of mind, you can attend classes at the Estes Valley Community Center during your month here, and hone your practice in balance, focus, and flexibility.
Book Your Stay in Estes Park Today
No matter what it is that brings you to Estes Park for a month-long escape this year, be sure to treat yourself to the comfort, style, and luxury you deserve by booking your local vacation accommodations through Voyago Vacation Rentals. We’ll make sure you feel right at home upon arrival and enjoy a stay that fits your travel style! Reach out today to learn more about our inviting portfolio of Estes Park cabin rentals and how we can help you tailor the details of your month away that matter most.
The end-of-year holidays have almost arrived, but what if your vacation to Estes Park is scheduled to take place before all the fuss and fanfare? It just means you will get to experience an authentic Colorado getaway, exploring all the things that make our town special while resting and relaxing in comfort and style in our Voyago Vacation Rentals hideaways! This guide to four ways to explore Estes Park before the holidays will give you a head start on anticipating the best vacation you have enjoyed in so many years.
1. Take a Ride on the Wildside with Wildside 4X4 Tours, 212 E Elkhorn Avenue
Your inner daredevil is begging to be released, and as you explore the stunning beauty of our Estes Park countryside from the seat of one of their colorful 4X4s, you will get an up close and personal view of everything you dreamed your Colorado vacation would contain. They offer a large number of tours year round, including National Park Tours that explore wildlife, waterfalls, lakes, and snow, and 4X4 offroad tours that will take you to the most beautiful places in town.
2. Gallop in the Country with National Park Gateway Stables, 4600 Fall River Road
Although the wild west chaos skipped over our town, Estes Park was more about ranching and homesteading than gunfights, saloons, and bawdy houses, we do let out our old west flair with horseback tours offered by National Park Gateway Stables. Offering tours that will give you views of snow capped mountains and/or the Continental Divide, they also offer pony rides for vacationers traveling with young kids.
3. Exploring the Waters of Estes Park with Pole in Hand with Kirks Flyshop, 230 E Elkhorn Avenue
Fly fishing is popular in our town, no matter what time of year and because not everyone is as familiar with the sport of fly fishing as we are, we like to recommend Kirks Flyshop and the guided fishing trips they offer. Choose your excursion, they offer two-hour, four-hour, six-hour, and eight-hour guided trips where you can enjoy snacks, lunches, and catching your limit. Everything except fishing licenses and tips are included in their prices.
4. Sipping and Savoring at the Snowy Peaks Winery, 292 Moraine Avenue
All your explorations are making you thirsty and ready to relax a little and the best place we know to do both is at the Snowy Peaks Winery! Offering a taste of Colorado you are sure to become addicted to, the wines are all created right here in our state and we think they could give Napa Valley a run for the money. We sincerely hope you test our theory with a visit to the winery sample all their flavors as well as enjoying their menu of gourmet foods all prepared by Colorado artisans. Offering a selection of cheeses, meats, preserves, and nuts, they also feature charcuterie boards that will complement each sip you take. Personally, their Colorado Wild Game Sausage Board is our favorite but you may prefer their pizza for two or just a giant soft Bavarian Pretzel served with beer cheese and stone ground mustard.
Bonus Adventures at Home with Voyago Vacation Rentals
The best way to enjoy your Estes Park vacation is by starting and ending each day from our Colorado sanctuaries. Our suites, cabins, and lodges provide all the comforts of home and also offer modern amenities and breathtaking views of the mountains. Contact us and reserve your favorite Estes Park vacation rental today!
As much as we love the snow, the bracing cold, and the dramatic beauty of leafless trees and snow-capped mountains, if we were playing a game of truth and dare, we’d have to say our truth is we in Estes Park love fall best. The crisp air, the scent of the first fires being lit in fireplaces all over the valley, and the sight of brilliantly colored forests adding extra beauty to our lives. All of these things make us so very happy, and when you choose to visit our Colorado mountain town and stay in our Voyago Park Vacation Rentals seasonal sanctuaries, you will experience all the happiness while savoring the coziness and luxuries of your favorite rental in Estes Park in the fall.
What Makes Life Cozy?
Cozy is one of those words that can mean different things to different people, but we try hard to meet the expectations of every traveler who turns to us for cozy comforts during their Estes Park vacation. Sometimes, cozy can be that welcoming vibe when you step inside our warm spaces, feeling as if the entire home has been waiting for you with bated breath. Cozy can be the plush sofas that invite you to sink into their soft depths, grab a throw off their backs, and snuggle in for the night, understanding that as the sun falls behind the mountains, the cold outside will be more than a little nippy. And cozy can be found in a roaring fire, a hot mug of freshly brewed coffee, and the first airing of the fall season of your favorite show, all three experienced after a long day of vacation fun.
Comfort Is Key
Cozy can also be defined by the comfort of the space. Can you sit around the dining room for another game, another beverage, another family story being retold, without feeling your legs go numb and your back starting to hurt? Are the chairs on the back decks and patios more than just a place to sit, offering a comfort level so complete you find yourself taking unexpected naps in them? And at night, when you slide between the super soft linens on our premium beds, can you feel your body going weightless, the tightness between your shoulder blades loosening, and the cloud soft comfort of the pillow perfectly cradling your head, neck, and shoulders? These cozy comforts can’t always be found in vacation rentals, but they will be found in all our Voyago retreats! And, because cozy amenities are our specialty, don’t be surprised to find another fireplace in your primary suite bedroom, adding a touch of romance as well as warmth and cozy comfort to your sleeping experiences.
Can We Call Our Bathrooms Cozy?
At first glance, a bathroom is all cold tile and sharp angles, but there is coziness to be found if you know where to look. Towels thar are large, thick, and fluffy are one way you can find cozy in these spaces, but perhaps the coziest feeling of all will be discovered in the baths you take. Many of our retreats feature deep tubs that are perfect for soaking, and as you fill their depths with hot waters scented with the oils you have added, turn the lights down, the music up, and sink into the water with a book in one hand and glass of wine in the other, your cozy night of relaxation will have begun. Once Upon a Hive, a candle store located in downtown Estes Park at 145 E Elkhorn Avenue, can help shed a cozy light on the matter when you purchase and utilize the beeswax candles they sell.
Cozily Relaxing Under the Stars
As we move closer to snow season, Colorado nights can be downright cold, with temperatures falling below freezing as winter begins to creep into the picture, but there can still be cozy moments enjoyed outside. Having a hot tub on the deck is practically the law in this part of the world, and there just aren’t enough words to describe the cozy wonder of soaking your body in bubbling waters, watching the steam rise up and disappear into the night sky, and feeling the cool (or cold) night air nip at your nose.
And for those who don’t fancy climbing out of a hot tub in a wet suit, shivering in the night air until you wrap the thick towel around you and head back inside where life is warm and wonderful, many of our properties will offer a firepit in the back yard, surrounded by chairs and inviting guests to roast marshmallows to make s’mores!
Contact us to reserve your favorite fall Estes Park vacation rental today!
Although it is quite obvious that Estes Park shines bright when blanketed in snow, an autumn visit is also pretty special, showing a different, more colorful side of our mountain town. Offering a vibrant and exciting adventure which is complemented by the luxurious comforts of our Voyago Vacation Rentals seasonal sanctuaries, your fall visit is definitely going to be one you will never forget. And to make sure that you don’t miss out on some of our favorite adventures, this guide to the top outdoor activities in Estes Park will help you fill in all the blank spaces on your vacation itinerary!
Peeping Leaves
The colors of fall are absolutely stunning, bringing people in from all over the world just to bask in their beauty, and we invite you to check them out for yourselves. For those visiting before Trail Ridge Road closes (usually around the 3rd week in October), this is the path we suggest you take. Leading travelers through Rocky Mountain National Park, the road is known for being the highest continually paved road in North America, and the views—not just of the trees, but of the park, the mountains, and the valleys—will take your breath away. Of course, if you aren’t up for a drive, we can promise that the trees you see from the balcony of your Voyago Vacation Rentals retreat will be pretty spectacular as well!
Estes Park Autumn Gold, September 20 & 21, Bond Park
Oh, how we love a good fall festival, and we especially love the Estes Park Autumn Gold festival, offering family friendly activities, live music, delicious food, and all the beer you want to drink! This exciting event used to be held in October, making it more of an Oktoberfest adventure, but it did get a little too cold, so we just moved it up a few weeks. The world-famous Autumn Gold Brat is the star of this show, but your kids may prefer the face painting and LEGO racecars they can build, and you may prefer the Rocky Mountain Spirits Experience, but we are pretty sure the music, the cool mountain air, and the raffles will excite you too!
Experience the Elk Rut
Viewing the wildlife in the area, especially during a tour of the park, but during the elk rut (generally occurring in September and October) it can be especially fascinating. Elk rut is, of course, elk mating season, and we can assure you those randy bulls certainly make their presence known, so much so that you may be able to hear them calling for a mate as you relax on your balcony overlooking the Colorado countryside. Some of the best viewing spots are also the best spots for viewing the changing leaves, including Lake Estes, Big Thompson Canyon, and Moraine Park.
Take a Hike
The weather is so beautiful this time of year, cold enough to keep you from sweating but warm enough that you can still feel your toes, and the trails you are taking will lead you through some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. The 4-mile paved trail that goes around the lake is easy to navigate and is also often used by joggers and bikers.
Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
Setting free your inner child is as easy as climbing aboard the Mustang Mountain Coaster and riding down the mountain at speeds that may reach up to 25-27 miles per hour. You probably already know how an alpine coaster works and that it is similar to a roller coaster, only it is gravity that propels you, and you have the control of how fast you go, but if you have never experienced the fast ride down the mountain, fall is the perfect time to do so! Located at 1180 Dry Gulch Road, the coaster gives guests a new and exciting way to experience the trails of Estes Park and will be one of those experiences you will cherish forever.
Relaxing in the Backyard of Your Voyago Vacation Rentals Seasonal Sanctuary
Of all the fun outdoor activities you can engage in during your stay in our Estes Park escapes, the ones that will reap the biggest benefits may be the activities you engage in while exploring the wonders of our backyards. Sit out on balconies that face the most stunning Rocky Mountain views, sipping mulled wine (it is fall after all!) or pumpkin porter, and wondering how did you get this lucky? Some retreats may offer hot tubs, others may offer firepits, and still others will offer both, perhaps encouraging you to stay home more, spoiling yourself and your family as much as possible. Contact us to reserve your favorite fall Estes Park vacation cabin today and discover even more ways to play and relax in Estes Park!
A family vacation is truly a wonderful thing, but there will always be one problem: trying to find something that all ages of travelers will enjoy together, especially when you bring the in-laws along on your trip. That’s three generations of humans coming together to find common ground and often failing miserably—unless, of course, your vacation is to Estes Park and you have chosen Voyago Vacation Rentals for your trip of a lifetime. In that case, all you need to do is keep reading to discover all the activities that all ages will enjoy, and we’ve listed some of our favorites below to help you plan your trip to Estes Park.
We All Scream for Ice Cream from Hayley’s Ice Cream, 102 E Elkhorn Avenue
It’s a beautiful summer day, your teens are smiling, your tweens are giddy, and your mom is enjoying this dedicated times with the grandkids, so of course you want to make the good times sweeter with a visit to Hayley’s Ice Cream. Their ice cream is made in small batches in the shop, ensuring that every lick you take will be fresh and wonderful, and they offer 32 flavors of homemade goodness. They don’t offer indoor seating but do provide a large number of tables with umbrellas outside, which on a beautiful summer day, why would you want to be cooped up inside anyway?
A Self-Guided Tour of the Stanley Hotel
Chances are your younger children have not seen the movie The Shining, but most children get excited at the idea of seeing a haunted house, they just don’t like the idea of sleeping in one, so an hour tour of the famous hotel is the perfect activity, one that grandma, mom, dad, and all the kids will enjoy. If your children are under the age of 8, however, this activity should be tabled for a return trip, because they are not permitted on the tour. Exploring the history, the architecture, and just how Stephen King came up with his idea for The Shining is an adventure we recommend to everyone. Ticket prices are $20 for children 8-17 and $25 for adults.
Attend the Elk Fest, September 28 & 29th, Bond Park
The best way to get a true understanding of the place you are visiting and have a great time while doing so is by attending local festivals and the Elk Fest, held at the end of September every year is sure to appeal to children from 2-92 years of age. Offering two days of food and vendor booths, live music, Native American dancing, and elk presentations that educate and entertain the crowds, there will also be bugling contests, and a raptor program that will thrill. This wonderful event takes place during the famous elk rut (elk mating season), increasing the chances that you may encounter the animal as you go about your vacation business, and you will probably hear their calls at night!
White Water Rafting with Colorado River Expeditions, 343 S St. Vrain Avenue
You really don’t have to be a daredevil to enjoy a white water rafting trip down the Colorado. It’s not that scary and for much of the river you will just be enjoying a leisurely ride through some of the most beautiful landscape you have ever seen in this lifetime. Their standard rafting trip lasts between 9 to 12 hours and includes a hot lunch on the shore (comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas are provided) and a fascinating history lesson about the river and Rocky Mountain National Park. This adventure is for those 7 years and older and is definitely one we recommend adding to your itinerary.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
There are so many reasons that a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park will be a highlight of your vacation adventures and we love that it is something all ages will enjoy. Hiking along the many trails that traverse the park, keeping your eye out for wildlife as you hike, is perhaps the most popular thing to do inside the park. The Continental Divide trail is a 30-mile one that runs through the middle of the park, but there are shorter hikes that may be more appropriate for the mixture of age groups in your traveling party. Also offering 150 historic structures to explore or photograph, fields of wildflowers, acres of forests, and the Colorado River that flows through the park, there is sure to be many activities inside that everyone in your traveling group will be thrilled to participate in. Summer visitors will need to make their reservations in advance with the park’s Timed Entry Reservation system, and there is a fee to enter the park that must be paid as well.
Chilling in Our Voyago Vacation Rentals Estes Park Retreats
Your best memories may be the ones made in our Estes Park vacation retreats, offering all the ways to relax, play, and just enjoy your time with the family. Contact us to reserve your favorite Estes Park vacation rental today!
If you are looking for your gateway into the Rocky Mountains and a whole lot of fun, you need to make your way to Estes Park. We are a top Colorado destination that features tons of outdoor adventures for everyone. Expenses can quickly add up when planning for any vacation getaway, but a great way to offset some costs is by finding plenty of free Estes Park activities to add to your itinerary. Here are some of the top free things to do in Estes Park no matter when you visit:
Check Out the Estes Park Riverwalk
If you want to see one of the most scenic areas of Estes Park, consider making your way to the Riverwalk. You will find this paved path taking you through Downtown Estes Park before it runs next to the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers. During your walk, you will find all kinds of shops and galleries that you can window shop. The Riverwalk features plenty of benches you can stop at to take in the scenic overlooks. You will find this area of town to be a relaxing and peaceful spot to check out. The sound of rushing water is always a popular feeling with the rivers flowing at their highest in the spring. Or check out the Riverwalk during the fall season as the color of the leaves change into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. There is no bad time of year to check out the Estes Park River.
Take in the Scenic Views and Overlook
Estes Park is a destination that is complete with all kinds of views that you will want to see to believe. During your visit drive around to the different scenic overlooks where you can see the mountains at no cost. You will find that scenic overlooks offer free parking spots along with picnic tables to enjoy a meal with your family. Some of our favorite overlooks can be found over at Lily Lake just along Highway 7 along with Lake Estes Marina. You can expect to find panoramic views from the vistas as both area. These are must-see areas for any photographers in your family.
Explore the Historic Stanley Hotel rounds
Estes Park has a surprising connection to Hollywood as the historic Stanley Hotel here in the area was featured in The Shining. Don’t let the movie spook you away from checking out this historic site that was rumored to be paranormal while the movie filmed on the premises. Visitors can tour the Stanley Hotel for a fee but walking around the hotel grounds outdoors is completely free. You will be able to enjoy the stunning architecture of the building along with the sweeping mountain views. You can even peek inside to see the vintage lobby and atmosphere that the movie featured.
Enjoy the Free Events Throughout the Year
Estes Park is not just about free activities but also free events that you can attend all year long. You and your family can attend a variety of events right here in the area. The Estes Park Elk Fest takes place during the fall season that coincides with the elk hunting season. You will find this event complete with live music, educational booths, and storytelling all for free. The Estes Park Jazz Fest in the month of May provides all kinds of free live jazz performances found here in town. Frozen Dead Guy Days in March is a quirky winter event that is still new to the area. It features all kinds of free entertainment and events. Last but not least is the Glow Holiday Parade in November that features all kinds of holiday lights and floats to help kick off the holiday season with.
Check Out Local Hiking Trails
Entry into the Rocky Mountain National Park will always require a fee so if you wish to see the area for free you can check out other hiking trails. One of our favorite trails is the Lily Mountain Trail that offers a moderately challenging experience that rewards you with panoramic views of Estes Valley and Longs Peak. Kruger Rock Trail is another great trail to hit up. If you enter Hermit Park from your vehicle there will be an entrance fee but you can avoid this by walking into the park. There are also local promotions throughout the year that will also offer free entry. Estes Lake Trail will take you around Lake Estes that is great for biking anytime of the year.
More Free Fun Right Here in Estes Park
Don’t miss out on all of this fun right here in the area. Reach out to us today to book our Estes Park vacation rentals, which will offer you a fantastic experience during your stay. There is no better way to enjoy Estes Park.
Your vacation in Estes Park is going to be filled with adventures of all types, including, if you are so inclined, road trips just waiting to be taken. This part of Colorado is known for its stunning landscape, its wonderful attractions, and for the charm of the small towns that are in the area and the locals here (and yes, that includes us at Voyago Vacation Rentals) love to take little voyages to all the most wonderful places. This guide to the top Estes Park day trips you can take—trips that begin in Estes Park and end right back where you started—has been curated from tips and hints that we received from staff, friends, and other Estes Park locals!
Wildlife Watching in Sheep Lakes
Located inside Horseshoe Park, Sheep Lakes is a beautiful part of the park, offering the water that attracts all the wildlife, and although it is technically still within city limits and it really won’t take all day to enjoy all this area has to offer, it’s has many benefits, including a short drive and the opportunity to see the wildlife in the area. We like to take our families to the parking lot that overlooks the lakes, packing a picnic, and for those of us who have smaller children, games to play. And we just sit and wait for the animals to come to us. Over the years we have spotted and photographed moose, coyotes, elk, and of course, the bighorn sheep that are the lake’s namesake. Sunrise and sunset are when the wildlife really get active, so consider scheduling your visit during those times and be prepared to be amazed at the wildlife you will spot.
A Scenic Drive Along the Trail Ridge Road
The Trail Ridge Road is a popular one, noted as the highest continuous paved highway and offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, practically around every turn. Open for cars May through October, in the off months, bicyclists love to ride this road and pedestrians love to walk along it, but in the height of summer, it is all about the drive. Offering multiple scenic overlooks, we advise our guests to stop, take pictures, and soak in the natural beauty that makes this area one of the top tourist destinations in the world. The Alpine Visitor’s Center is one such overlook, located above the tree line so you will feel as if you are on top of the world!
Journey to Nederland
The town of Nederland boasts a population of less than 2000 people and a lifestyle that is serene, calm, and happy, especially as it home to what they call the Carousel of Happiness, a 1910 carousel that has been fully restored to its original glory. 57 hand-carved and hand-painted animals continue their circuit thousands of times in a day, “dancing” to the tunes played by a restored 1913 Wurlitzer band organ, and as you ride your chosen “steed” (an ostrich, a pig, a giraffe, and a panda are amongst some of your choices), you will learn why it is named what it is named. It’s impossible not to be happy on this bright, colorful, and cheerful carousel!
Discover the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a 55-mile stretch of road offering views of the Front Range (a mountain range that is a part of the Southern Rocky Mountains) and the Continental Divide, while also providing peeks into the lives of the wildlife that inhabits the area. This byway is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway, having been established in 1918, and is beautiful year-round, making a summer drive a wonderful one, but if you truly want to see it at its most colorful, we suggest a return trip in the fall! Or, as this article will be “hitting the stands” sometime in August, it is quite possible your visit will fall during prime leaf viewing season, late September through early October, and if that is case, you have timed it perfectly!
All Roads Lead Home to Voyago Vacation Rentals
Whether you decide to take short Estes Park day trips to any of the parks in the area or decide you really want to take a road trip and hit the road for a two-hour drive to Sulphur Hot Springs (that’s an experience you will never forget!) realizing that all roads lead back home to our Voyago Vacation Rentals Colorado sanctuaries will bring you joy! Soothe your aching muscles by soaking in hot tubs, wind down by sitting near the fireplace and quietly watching the flames flicker, even in the summer months. And when sleep wins and you crawl into the most comfortable beds in the state, you will feel at ease, at home, and ready for happy dreams. Reserve your favorite Estes Park cabin rental today!
In much of the world, the heat of summer is turned up a few more notches by the time August rolls around, but here in Estes Park, our weather is already turning to fall. Warm days fold into nights so cool, the temperatures will often drop near freezing, offering the perfect contrast in wonderful, as this contradiction allows guests to utilize all the amenities our Voyago Vacation Rentals seasonal sanctuaries have to offer. August may be the local’s favorite time of year, and if your journey brings you to our mountain home at that time, this guide on how to do August in Estes Park like a local will help you enjoy the most joyful Estes Park August vacation of all.
First We Sip Wine at the Estes Park Wine Festival, August 9th & 10th, Bond Park
A good wine adds a spark of wonderful to a summer day, and the Estes Park Wine Festival allows us to sip all the wines while listening to live music, devouring delectable food, and even get a little pre-holiday shopping done, as the vendors open booths filled with arts, crafts, and gifts. (Christmas is only 138 days away!) Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online, with General Admission tickets providing a wine glass, a wine tote, and unlimited tastings as well as access to all vendors and music. VIP tickets include VIP tent entry with catered food and wine bar.
Then We Splash Around at Lake Estes
The water is already beginning to cool down, but when the sun shines and the mercury rises to a comfortable 78 degrees, we and our families often find ourselves heading to the lake for a day of fun in the sun and water. Lake Estes Marina rents a generous selection of boats, including pontoon, fishing, and kayaks, and canoes, and if you want to get a little workout in during your lake activities, they also rent out paddleboards. Sometimes we hike the trail that surrounds the lake, and most times we pack a picnic, as there are also picnic tables at the lake. Visitors can also swim, relax on the sandy beach by the marina, or even join in a pick-up game of beach volleyball—there’s no end to the amount of fun that can be had at Lake Estes on an August day.
Sometimes We Eat a LOT
The restaurants of Estes Park are known to be some of the best in the state, and although you can create your own self-guided tour of deliciousness, Estes Park Tour Guides offers a four-hour food and drink tour that allows you to sample a little bit of everything. You can always return to the restaurants that interest you most at a later time, living like a local when you find “your place,” but early on in your Estes Park journey, the tour may be the best way to get your feet wet!
Hiking Saves the Day
The way we look at it, we could constantly count calories and miss out on the fun a good meal can bring, or we can eat all we want and hike away all the excess calories we have consumed. If you see things the way we do, in addition to the Lake Estes Trail we mentioned earlier, you may want to explore the Lumpy Ridge Trail, which features panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. You can also push yourself to complete the extremely hard Sky Pond via the Glacier Gorge Trail; offering an elevation gain of 1700+ feet, the 8.6-mile-long trail offers waterfalls, lakes, creeks, and canopies of trees to help ease the pain of all the extra steps.
And Then We Sip Some More
The perfect way to end a day of Colorado adventures is by sipping and savoring the cool of the night, and places like The Slab-Outdoor Pub, located at 116 E Elkhorn Avenue, let us do it in style. The Slab is technically a beer garden that serves pub grub, and it does close relatively early (9 or 10 PM), so if you have the urge to sip a little later, the Wheel Bar, 132 E Elkhorn Avenue, stays open until 2 AM and offers the full bar experience.
But Mostly We Relax and Take It Easy in Estes Park in August
Because our Voyago Vacation Rentals Estes Park escapes are designed to bring comfort and fun to all who reside within, you too can follow in the footsteps of the locals. Offering hot tubs on decks overlooking the breathtaking Estes Park landscape, ping pong, pool, or even foosball tables for some extra entertainment, and fireplaces in living rooms and some bedrooms, state of the art televisions, and gourmet kitchens equipped with high-end appliances, staying in and relaxing won’t make you feel like you’re missing out on anything—it will make you feel that you are enjoying EVERYTHING. Reserve your favorite August cabin in Estes Park today!
Sometimes, when we think back on our favorite vacation memories, many of the bright spots revolve around the food we ate. We become more adventurous in our travels, trying out foods we’ve never experienced before, just as we are visiting new places we have never visited before, and when your summer journey brings you to our Voyago Vacation Rentals in the town of Estes Park, your dining adventures are sure to be memorable ones. This guide to must-try Estes Park restaurants will make your mouth water and your stomach grumble that you aren’t feeding it these wonderful meals right now!
Bison Tacos at Ed’s Cantina & Grill, 390 E Elkhorn Avenue
Tacos are the world’s obsession, and we personally feel that no one does tacos like Ed’s Cantina & Grill. If you have never tried bison meet, we are thrilled to introduce you to the delicacy! First of all, bison meat is lower in fat and cholesterol, so it is a healthy protein choice, but when you eat Mexican food, do you really care about fat and cholesterol? These delicious tacos, made with a crispy corn shell, Pico de Gallo, and cheese, will put some spice into your life and perhaps spoil you against all other taco meats!
Homemade Biscuits and Gravy at Big Horn Restaurant, 401 W Elkhorn Avenue
Our mamas taught us that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and apparently the owners at Big Horn restaurant agree! Offering a menu filled with hearty and delicious breakfast foods, including a monster-sized breakfast burrito that we considered choosing for our favorite meal. The homemade biscuits, however, topped with homemade sausage gravy, are a habit we don’t want to kick, and we bet that you too will fall in love at first bite!
Spicy All Game Elk Burger at Elevations Eatery & Bar, 153 E Elkhorn Avenue
We really are trying to take you out of your comfort zone during your unforgettable vacation in Estes Park, first with the bison tacos, and now with the spicy all game elk burger at Elevations Eatery & Bar. Served on a pillowy brioche bun, the elk patty is topped with pepper jack cheese AND wild game boar sausage, which adds an extra kick you will soon begin to crave. For those looking for something a little lighter, their Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl is a game changer!
Dirty Martini Artichoke & Spinach Dip @Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ, 820 Moraine Avenue
Sometimes you just want to share some appetizers as you sip cold craft beers, and although the barbecue served at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ is some of the best BBQ we have ever tasted, you may be equally delighted with snacking on their Dirty Martini Artichoke & Spinach Dip. Made with a blend of cheeses that now includes bleu cheese, garlic, cream, spinach, roasted green chiles, and artichoke hearts, we don’t really care to know the calorie count and while on vacation you shouldn’t have to worry about that either!
Huckleberry Oreo Ice Cream at Pines & Cones Ice Cream, 125 Moraine Avenue
It’s summer, of COURSE, you want ice cream, and Pines & Cones Ice Cream, one of Estes Park’s newest ice cream shops, has already won our hearts, offering homemade ice cream and their own waffle cones. Every flavor is worthy of trying, but the blend of huckleberries and Oreos is a unique one that tastes so good you will dream about it long after you have returned to real life.
Cherry Streusel Pie at the Colorado Cherry Company, Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel is famous for a lot of things, including its longevity, its starring role in a very popular horror movie, and the fact that the hotel is very much haunted, but here in town, we also appreciate it for the Colorado Cherry Company café that does business from inside the hotel. Offering all the pies in all the flavors and a variety of what they call pie pockets (small, handheld pies that slightly resemble the ones that used to come in wax paper that you remember from your youth). But it is their cherry streusel pie that we hope you try, savoring the tart and sweet treat that has been a mainstay for the Colorado Cherry Company throughout 4 generations of ownership.
Your Family Recipes Made at Home in our Voyago Vacation Rentals
Now that you have enjoyed a sample of the culinary landscape of Estes Park, it is time to insert your own creations into the mix, with the final must-try item on our list being the family recipe that yours has always cherished. Our fully equipped kitchens might just bring a tear to the eye of the chef that is hiding within, offering high-end appliances, plenty of counterspace, and the vibe of the heart of the home. Contact us to reserve your favorite Estes Park vacation rental today!