Early spring in Estes Park is a bit different than early spring in so many other parts of the country. The calendar tells us that yes, spring has sprung, but looking out the window tells a completely different story. The landscape is often blanketed in soft white snow even as the first green leaf buds are starting to appear on the trees. People still bundle up for nights that may feature temperatures that drop below freezing, but shed their layers as the sun rises with the temperatures later in the day.
Estes Park in spring is an idyllic season for winter lovers, and because it is also the low tourist season, prices will be lower, the vibe will be quieter, and our Voyago Vacation Rentals seasonal sanctuaries will be warm, comfortable, and ready to provide a soft spot for you to land during your early spring getaway to our mountain town!
Your Bags Are Packed
The first thing you will want to do is pack your luggage with appropriately warm clothing, not forgetting waterproof boots and coat; you can always wear the boots and carry the coat on the plane to use as a pillow or blanket if you want to save room for souvenirs. March and April are very snowy months, so winter hats and gloves are also recommended. People who have never lived in the snow are always surprised at how bright it is, so sunglasses should be included as well.
If you think you might want to hike during your visit, (winter hikes are wonderful) you may want to invest in some micro spikes for your shoes, or plan on renting a pair of snowshoes during your stay. Daytime temps really will get up there, so dressing in layers and remembering to make sure the bottom layers are moisture wicking are the last two tips we have for our early spring guests.
Outdoor Adventures in the Crisp Cold Air
If you love winter like we do, of course you will want to play outside in the fresh air as often as possible, so now that we know you are appropriately dressed for winter weather, let’s explore some of the adventures you can experience in the early spring.
Ice Fishing in March
Although it is not recommended for April visits, it is still possible to get some ice fishing in during the month of March, just not in Lake Estes. It never gets cold enough for safe ice fishing, but Sprague Lake (located about 15 minutes outside of Estes Park) and Lake of Glass (located about 25 minutes outside of Estes Park) are both wonderful spots to drop your line. In addition to your pole, reel, line, and bait, you will also need to bring a hand auger and jigs, especially during your Lake of Glass fishing trip, as it is in Rocky Mountain National Park and only hand augers are allowed.
Snowshoeing Adventures
A good winter hike can be even more exciting when wearing snowshoes, and Sojourner Mountain Guides offers a variety of guided snowshoeing tours to help you get the hang of the sport and to give you a more comprehensive exploration of the area. They offer half-day trips that are three or four hours long, full-day trips ranging between six to eight hours, and multiday expeditions that can be fun if you want to invest all of that time into the adventure.
Frozen Dead Guy Festival, March 27 through 29, Various Locations in Estes Park
In case you need something to convince you to visit Estes Park in the early spring, read no further, as the Frozen Dead Guy Festival comes to town the last weekend in March! We like to say this is when winter gets weird, and as you watch (or participate in) coffin races, listen to live music, attend the Royal Blue Ball, and possibly join in the fun of a Polar Plunge, you may begin to realize that an early spring getaway to Estes Park was the best idea you have had this year. Beginning with the Coffin Race and ending with a Band and Bloody’s Brunch, this really strange festival is the only reason you need to start making your plans for an early spring in Estes Park.
Plan on Being So Comfortable you Never Want to Leave
You’ve chosen Voyago Vacation Rentals for your Estes Park seasonal sanctuary, so there is one last thing you can plan on: being so comfortable that you never want to leave! Offering retreats for large groups, small families, and any sized traveling group in between, your early spring getaway to Estes Park will be what dreams are made of. Reserve your favorite Colorado retreat today and discover that early spring is one of the best times to visit!
