You may think of Estes Park as a winter vacation destination, but we at Voyago Vacation Rentals would like to introduce you to the joy of summer. The perfect summer day in Estes Park begins with golden sunshine, clear blue skies, and temperatures that rarely climb above the low 80s. Indulge in long days that rarely get too hot and short nights that are cool enough to make the fireplaces in our rentals feel just right. This guide to home, scenic beauty, and all the fun Estes Park summer activities listed below will ensure that your stay is one you will never forget.

Hiking Near Estes Park

The weather and breathtaking scenery in our mountain town will make you want to spend as much time outside as possible. Hiking is one of the most popular summer activities in Estes Park, so make sure to eat heartily and wear your most comfortable shoes.

Accessible from the Bear Lake Road parking lot, Bear Lake Loop is an ideal Estes Park family activity. Even your youngest travelers will be able to finish the hike.

For travelers who prefer a little more challenge, the Emerald Lake Trail is a popular, moderately difficult route. Extending just over 3 miles, it, too, can be accessed from the Bear Lake Road parking lot. Hikers travel past 3 lakes—Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake—so plan on taking lots of pictures.

Twin Sisters Peak Trail is a lengthy, difficult trail for experienced hikers. Traverse rocky, exposed terrain, including some portions where scrambling is required, before reaching the summit and gazing out across stunning views of Longs Peak and the surrounding mountains.

Wildlife Viewing and Nature Experiences

With a beautiful landscape also come the creatures that inhabit it, and wildlife viewing and other nature experiences may be your favorite Estes Park summer activities. The park protects the wildlife that lives within, and so does the town we live in. You don’t have to go to a zoo to catch sight of the fabulous creatures who live here; you just need to go outside.

Sunrise and sunset are the best times to view local wildlife as they step out of the woods to dine and drink from local lakes. Moose tend to roam in the wetter areas, preferring Sprague Lake in Estes Park, and Sheep Lakes (located inside Rocky Mountain National Park) may be where you can get the best glimpses of bighorn sheep.

Scenic Drives and Must-See Viewpoints

Sometimes the best way to clear your mind is to get in the car and just drive, and in Estes Park, you won’t be able to think about anything except the breathtaking views that surround you. You will need to keep your eyes on the road while driving, but there are plenty of places along the way that you can pull over and take in all the sights safely.

Even people who have never visited this part of the world have heard about Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuously paved road in the United States. Enjoy a Sunday drive on this 48-mile road that ascends to over 12,000 feet above sea level. Bear Lake Road (33 miles in length) and the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (55 miles in length) are two more popular scenic routes around Estes Park.

Family Friendly Summer Activities in Estes Park

In the midst of all the craziness of real life, a family vacation is something that can help restore your sanity, and the Estes Park family activities listed below will bring on the fun.

Mustang Mountain Coaster

The Mustang Mountain Coaster is a gravity-driven alpine coaster sure to bring excitement to your day. They have an early-bird special for summer, saving you money if you arrive right when the coaster opens!

Ride a Kart & Cascade Creek Mini Golf

This family fun park includes go-karts, bumper boats, Trackman Golf Simulator, and a miniature train that can be ridden around the park, and more.

Stanley Chocolate Factory

A visit to the Stanley Chocolate Factory is not to be missed. Enjoy hands-on chocolate-making or a 50-minute chocolate and wine tasting experience.

Festivals, Events, and Local Experiences

The best way to experience Estes Park, Colorado, is to attend the events, markets, and community celebrations that the locals love and participate in.

Rooftop Rodeo, Early July

Described as a rodeo with altitude, our annual Rooftop Rodeo event is one we look forward to all year. Offering six full days of mutton busting, bronc riding, and themed nights, the parade that starts out the week of events will bring you joy.

Estes Park Wine Festival, Early August

What better way to enjoy a late summer day than by sipping wine and listening to live music? The Estes Park Wine Festival offers two days of wine, food, music, and the chance to shop till you drop with specialty vendors setting up booths in Bond Park

4th of July

Celebrating the 4th with live music and a fireworks display is our way of welcoming you to town over this most wonderful holiday. The Big Bang Concert is the headliner for the fireworks show, opening its gates at 5 PM.

Enjoy the 4th of July Estes Park fireworks

Easy Day Trips and Nearby Adventures

One Estes Park summer activity that we highly recommend is taking a road trip to Caribou City Ghost Town. Located just about an hour outside Estes Park, this abandoned silver mining town from the late 1800s features a scattering of foundations, a couple of dilapidated buildings, and even some abandoned mining equipment. Known for being visited by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1873, when it was a thriving, bustling town.

Book an Estes Park Summer Vacation Rental

You will find that the common denominator in all these summer activities in Estes Park, Colorado, will be the joy of starting and ending each day in our mountain retreats. Reserve your favorite property today!