Welcome to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park! This area beckons all outdoor lovers to visit, with its unspoiled natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and the kind of cozy accommodations that make a vacation truly unforgettable.
Estes Park offers a peek into the best of nature, where elk roam freely, and the stunning views just speak to your soul. So, if you’re seeking solitude among the aspens, a family adventure in the great outdoors, or a romantic getaway in a stunning locale, Estes Park is a place for you. But don’t just stop there. Explore the following Top Ten Reasons why Estes Park should be the choice for your next vacation!
1. Take in Breathtaking Natural Beauty During Your Estes Park Vacation
You knew it had to be first. The natural world surrounding Estes Park is remarkable. Estes Park can be considered the crown jewel of Colorado’s natural wonders, serving as the eastern entrance to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park. More than that, Estes Park is home to Rocky Mountain National Park – a sanctuary where the majesty of the mountains meets the sky.
The park boasts over 300 miles of hiking trails that weave through dense forests, alpine meadows and lakes, and rugged peaks that touch the clouds. Scenic drives like the Trail Ridge Road offer panoramic views that stretch for miles, giving you many opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, and soaking up those awe-inspiring sights.
Elk, deer, and other wildlife sightings are common, making every visit a unique encounter with nature. The serene beauty of Estes Park’s natural landscape, from the quiet of the lakes at dawn to the alpenglow at dusk, is a constant reminder of the splendor of the natural world.
2. A Hiker’s Paradise
If you love lacing up your hiking boots and hitting the trails, then Estes Park is the place for you. The area is home to trails that cater to every level of experience, from the easy, family-friendly paths around Bear Lake to the more challenging treks up Hallett Peak.
Noteworthy trails like the Emerald Lake Trail and the Sky Pond Trail offer a journey along the alpine lakes, with twists and turns that lead to one postcard-worthy view after another. These hikes not only challenge and invigorate you but also provide moments of profound tranquility and connection with nature. As you hike along the way, you’ll be treated to cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge or someone who just enjoys a leisurely walk in the great outdoors, hiking around in Estes Park is an experience you must have.
3. The Thrill of Outdoor Adventures
Immerse yourself in the heart of Colorado’s wilderness! Adventure your way with a smorgasbord of outdoor activities. This mountain town caters to thrill-seekers and nature lovers of all ages. Imagine horseback riding through aspen groves, where the only sounds you hear are the gentle clip-clop of hooves and the whisper of the wind. Or consider the peaceful joy of casting a fishing line in the rippling mountain streams, waiting for the tug of trout at the bait. If you’re more of an aquatic adventurer, get in a kayak to traverse the glassy surface of Estes Park’s lakes. You’ll be in awe of the mountains as you take in their reflection mirrored in the lake.
These activities, among others, are not just available; they’re accessible. Outfitters and guides in Estes Park specialize in creating experiences that suit all skill levels, ensuring that everyone from can find an adventure that feels special and unique to them. This accessibility is part of what makes Estes Park an ideal destination for families, groups, and solo adventurers.
4. A Rich History and Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural wonders, Estes Park is home to a rich variety of history and culture. The Stanley Hotel, with its grand white facade and stately architecture, stands as a testament to the town’s early 20th-century beginnings that inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Learn more by taking a guided tour of this hotel to dive into its history and what made this book and movie a cult classic.
Additionally, local museums and cultural centers add depth to the Estes Park experience. From the Estes Park Museum, which highlights the area’s early settlers and natural history, to the historic MacGregor Ranch, where visitors can learn about Colorado’s ranching heritage. These sites provide a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped Estes Park, offering stories of resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the West.
5. Premier Local Dining Experience: The Twin Owls Steakhouse
Among Estes Park’s culinary gems, The Twin Owls Steakhouse shines particularly bright. Known for its rustic elegance and mouthwatering menu, dining at this restaurant gives you an experience that captures the pure essence of Colorado.
Specializing in hand-cut steaks and local delicacies, every dish is a celebration of quality and flavor. Feel warm and cozy in a restaurant whose ambiance, equipped with log cabin architecture and cozy fireplaces, complements the hearty cuisine. Each meal shared here is a truly memorable one.
Guests appreciate the attentive service and the unparalleled mountain views that set the stage for a perfect evening. So be sure to add the Twin Owls Steakhouse to your Estes Park itinerary so you too can say “Dining at The Twin Owls Steakhouse was the highlight of our trip.” Join the many other visitors to Estes Park who have enjoyed its warm, welcoming atmosphere and exquisite food.
6. Unique Shopping Experiences
Taking a stroll through downtown Estes Park is like walking into a treasure chest of unique finds and local craftsmanship. The town’s quaint streets are lined with shops and galleries that invite leisurely browsing. Much of what’s offered is inspired by the surrounding beauty of the Rockies. As you indulge in some retail therapy, you’ll discover everything from handcrafted jewelry and artisan soaps to custom leather goods and fine art!
Local artisans take pride in their work, offering goods that you won’t find anywhere else. Bring home a one-of-a-kind gift, a piece of local art to remember your trip, or some homemade fudge to satisfy a sweet tooth! Estes Park’s shopping scene is diversely delightful. Each purchase is a story of your time in Estes Park that you’ll be able to share with loved ones for years to come.
7. Voyago’s Amazing Cabin/Vacation Rentals
When you begin planning your trip to this amazing destination, you’re going to need the perfect place to stay. That’s where the team at Voyago comes in! Voyago offers an exquisite selection of high-end cabin and vacation homes that promise a unique experience that far exceeds any hotel stay. With Voyago, you can have a home-away-from-home experience with a touch of luxury!
Each property is carefully curated to ensure you can enjoy the pinnacle of comfort and style amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. From rustic, cozy cabins ideal for romantic getaways to spacious vacation homes designed for family reunions or group retreats, Voyago has a variety of options to suit your unique needs.
These vacation homes come equipped with a range of amenities designed to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Rise each morning to stunning mountain views best seen through large floor-to-ceiling windows. Take that first sip of your morning coffee on your private deck as you inhale that fresh mountain air. In the cooler evenings, you can relax with loved ones by a crackling fireplace after a day of exploration. Unique features like hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and outdoor fire pits enhance the experience, ensuring your Estes Park vacation is utterly unforgettable. To be central to the adventure and excitement of Estes Park, be sure to secure your accommodations with Voyago!
8. Wildlife Encounters
Estes Park is a great place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The area’s diverse ecosystems are home to a variety of animals, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, an assortment of birds and small mammals. One of the most thrilling aspects of a visit to Estes Park is the chance to witness these creatures up close, whether its elk grazing in meadows or eagles soaring against the backdrop of the Rockies.
For a safe and respectful wildlife watching experience, be sure you keep a safe distance, use binoculars or zoom lenses for up-close views, and respect the animals’ space by staying quiet and never feeding them.
Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife sightings, especially in less crowded areas of Rocky Mountain National Park. These encounters are an exciting reminder of the majestic creatures we share this planet with. Watching them brings a unique sense of peace and wonder, making wildlife watching a must-do activity in Estes Park.
9. Year-Round Events and Festivals
Feel the vibrant community spirit of Estes Park that’s seen through its year-round calendar of events and festivals. Each event caters to a wide variety of interests and attracts visitors from all corners. The Estes Park Elk Fest celebrates the annual elk rut with educational events, live music, and local food, offering a unique way to engage with the area’s celebrity animal – the elk! The Stanley Film Festival, held at the iconic Stanley Hotel, is an absolute must for film lovers. It features independent horror films in a setting famous for its spooky inspiration.
Summer brings the Estes Park Music Festival and the Rooftop Rodeo, known as the “Rodeo with Altitude,” which has been thrilling audiences with professional rodeo performances for over 90 years! The winter months are brightened by the Estes Park Winter Festival, showcasing ice sculptures, local brews, and live music.
Not only are these events entertaining but they are also a give you a glimpse into the cultural makeup of Estes Park. So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in local traditions and community celebrations while on vacation, Estes Park is where it’s at!
10. Easy Accessibility and Welcoming Community
Something else that makes Estes Park so alluring is its easy accessibility and welcoming vibes. In just a short drive from major cities like Denver, Estes Park serves as a convenient escape to the serenity of the mountains. It’s a great option for weekend getaways and extended vacations. Smooth travel is the name of the game in Estes Park. The journey to this paradise will be as pleasant as your stay.
When you arrive in Estes Park, you’ll be at the receiving end of that quintessential mountain hospitality. The local community takes pride in welcoming guests from around the globe, offering a level of warmth and friendliness that has earned Estes Park lots of praise for its service and hospitality. This welcoming atmosphere, combined with the town’s commitment to preserving its natural and cultural legacy, makes Estes Park a truly unique place.
Book Your Estes Park Accommodations with Voyago Today!
There you have it! The ten reasons to choose Estes Park as your next vacation destination. This remarkable city stands as a beacon for travelers seeking to blend adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty on their vacation.
From the majestic landscapes of the Rocky Mountain National Park and the wildlife that call this area home, the engaging cultural events and the unparalleled hospitality of its community –Estes Park offers you an enriching and unforgettable vacation experience. The town’s unique blend of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and local culinary delights ensures that you’ll find something to enjoy in this mountain retreat.
As you consider your next vacation destination, let Estes Park be at the top of your list. With Voyago, booking your ideal getaway is just a few clicks away. Explore our selection of cabin and vacation rentals in Estes Park, and prepare to experience the comfort, convenience, and connection to nature that makes for an unforgettable escape. Reach out to Voyago today and allow us to help you make your Estes Park dreams a reality.
Estes Park is your gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Located just outside Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town itself, with its friendly atmosphere, unique shops, and local eateries, is an excellent home base to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re in town for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure – any time spent in Estes Park is time well spent.
Exploring Estes Park
Estes Park is a spectacular place to visit with family and to explore its seasonal activities. Many frequent this area to bask in the summer sun, be wowed by the fall colors, indulge in winter sports, or welcome the first blooms of spring. Whatever time of year you find yourself visiting, you are sure to see how Estes Park transforms with each season –presenting opportunities for new adventures and breathtaking views.
The town’s vibrant dining scene and eclectic shopping options further enhance your experience, offering tastes and treasures unique to the Rocky Mountain region.
Family-Friendly Activities in Estes Park
Estes Park is a haven for families seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst nature’s splendor. The town and its surroundings cater to families with a variety of interests and ages, ensuring that every member has an unforgettable experience.
• Educational Programs and Workshops: Rocky Mountain National Park’s ranger-led programs are a fantastic way to learn about the park’s ecology, wildlife, and history. These programs often include guided hikes, wildlife talks, and interactive workshops suitable for kids and adults!
• Estes Park Ride-A-Kart & Cascade Creek Mini-Golf: This family entertainment center is a must-visit if you’re looking to have fun outside the hiking trails. With go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, and more, it provides hours of entertainment for children and the young at heart. Each activity offers a unique way to enjoy the outdoors.
• Fun City: Another popular destination for families is Fun City, full of giant slides and bouncy houses to mini-golf and a maze. It’s great for helping the kiddoes run free while the adults enjoy the scenic views and fresh mountain air.
• Estes Park Museum: For a quieter but equally enriching experience, the Estes Park Museum offers provides insights into the area’s history and culture. Exhibits cover the development of the town, local wildlife, and the indigenous history of the region, and is accessible to visitors of all ages.
Seasonal Activities in Estes Park
Each season in Estes Park has its own unique charm and array of activities, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
• Summer: Estes Park shines in the summer. With its endless blue skies and mild temperatures, it’s the perfect time for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The town buzzes with outdoor festivals, markets, and concerts, celebrating the thrill of summer in the heart of the Rockies.
• Fall: Autumn cloaks the landscape in vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red, offering spectacular views of the fall foliage. This season also marks the elk rut, an incredible natural phenomenon where male elks bugle and compete for mates in the meadows, a must-see spectacle.
• Winter: The snowy landscape of Estes Park turns into a winter wonderland, offering activities like snowshoeing, sledding, and ice skating. The town itself sparkles with holiday lights and decorations, creating a cozy atmosphere for shopping or dining by the fire.
• Spring: As the snow recedes, Estes Park bursts into life with blooming wildflowers and the return of wildlife to the valley. It’s a time of renewal and rejuvenation, ideal for exploring the thawing trails, fishing in the sparkling rivers, or enjoying the fresh mountain air and longer days.
Dining and Shopping in Estes Park
Estes Park’s restaurant scene reflects its rich cultural heritage and the bounty of the surrounding area. It has everything from hearty mountain meals to sophisticated gourmet dishes. Many restaurants boast patios or windows with mountain views, allowing diners to enjoy the spectacular scenery while eating a good meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
The town’s shops range from boutique clothing stores and art galleries to souvenir shops and outdoor gear outlets. As you stroll through downtown Estes Park, you’ll find handmade jewelry, unique artworks, local crafts, and much more, making it easy to take a piece of the Rockies home with you.
Estes Park is a destination that captivates the hearts of all who visit, offering a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and community spirit. One thing you must do when visiting Estes Park is to check out Rocky Mountain National Park.
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park
Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park gives you a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience into a stunning part of American soil. This sprawling park, with its diverse wildlife, rugged terrain, and breathtaking vistas, offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and connection with nature. Avid hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who loves to spend a bit of time in nature is bound to feel inspired spending time in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Trails Galore
With over 300 miles of trails, this natural haven offers a range of hiking experiences, from tranquil walks around serene alpine lakes to the challenging climbs to towering peaks. Each trail in the park has its own story and experience full of different landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife encounters that fuel your sense of adventure. Learn more about the following trails:
Emerald Lake Trail
The Emerald Lake Trail is a perfect introduction to the park’s natural beauty. This family-friendly hike starts at the Bear Lake trailhead, leading adventurers past two alpine lakes – Nymph Lake and Dream Lake.
As the trail meanders through lush forests and rocky paths, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks and the chance to spot local wildlife. The trail culminates at Emerald Lake, a spectacular mountain lake surrounded by rugged peaks, providing a tranquil spot to rest and take in the beauty of the park. Covering a distance of 3.6 miles round trip, it’s a great choice if you’re hiking with your family, or if you’re looking for something that isn’t too strenuous.
Sky Pond
If you’re a more adventurous type, the hike to Sky Pond is a journey through some of the park’s most spectacular landscapes. Starting at the Glacier Gorge trailhead, this 9-mile round trip hike is a more challenging endeavor that rewards hikers with beauty and wonder at every turn.
The path leads through dense forests, near rushing streams, and past the enchanting Loch Vale. One of the highlights of the hike is the ascent up Timberline Falls, a demanding climb that requires some scrambling but offers an exhilarating sense of achievement. Beyond the falls lies the Glass Lake, an ethereal body of water that serves as your preview to the grand finale, Sky Pond. Once you get to Sky Pond, you’ll be blown away by this body of water high up in the heavens.
Longs Peak
Longs Peak, standing majestically at 14,259 feet, presents one of the ultimate challenges for experienced hikers and mountaineers. Known as one of Colorado’s iconic “fourteeners,” the journey to the summit of Longs Peak is not for the faint of heart. The Keyhole Route, spanning approximately 15 miles round trip, is a demanding trek that will test your endurance, skill, and resolve.
The route is characterized by steep ascents, narrow ledges, and rugged terrain, offering thrilling climbing sections and unparalleled views. Reaching the summit of Longs Peak is a real achievement and is bound to give you a profound sense of accomplishment.
Preparing for Your Adventure
Be sure to check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and park regulations before embarking on your hikes. It’s very important to carry sufficient water, food, and layers for changing weather conditions. Do your part to preserve the park’s beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Whether choosing the serene Emerald Lake Trail, the adventurous path to Sky Pond, or the challenging ascent of Longs Peak, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Explore the breathtaking beauty and rugged wilderness of this cherished national park. Enjoy a relaxed family hike or a challenging trek – the park’s trails showcase memorable moments and views.
Wildlife Watching and Photography
Rocky Mountain National Park is a sanctuary for many kinds of wildlife including elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and moose. Smaller creatures you might be able to see include pikas, marmots, and a variety of bird species also inhabit the park. These factors make Rocky Mountain National Park a prime location for wildlife watching and taking photos. Here are the two best spots to watch wildlife:
• Moraine Park: This wide, open valley is one of the best places in the park to view wildlife, especially during the elk rut in the fall. Elk love the meadows of Moraine Park, so you’ll have a front row seat to elk sightings as well as the unique opportunity to hear the calls of the elk during mating season.
• Horseshoe Park: Another prime spot for wildlife watching is Horseshoe Park. This area is known for its herds of elk and bighorn sheep. The park’s accessible nature and the presence of the Alluvial Fan – a stunning waterfall created by a historic flood – make it a popular spot for both wildlife watching and scenic views.
Experiencing the Park Beyond Hiking
Scenic drives, educational ranger-led programs, and star-gazing events give you different ways to see the park.
• Trail Ridge Road: Like taking a journey through the sky, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved highway in North America, cresting at over 12,000 feet! This scenic drive elevates you to different alpine environments with stunning views, exhibits, and trailheads. It’s a must-do.
• Ranger-Led Programs: The park offers an array of ranger-led programs that provide insights into its geology, wildlife, and history. These programs, which include guided hikes, talks, and night sky programs, enrich your experience with educational and engaging content.
• Star Gazing: The clear, high-altitude skies of Rocky Mountain National Park offer exceptional star-gazing opportunities. The park occasionally hosts night sky programs at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and other locations, so you can marvel at the Milky Way and other celestial phenomena. Take a look at the universe through telescopes and with the guidance of astronomers.
Estes Park is a destination beckoning you with the promise of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories in the heart of the Rockies. Plan your next great hike in the national park and experience the charm of mountain living in Estes Park!
Planning Your Trip to Amazing Estes Park
We hope this guide gave you a better idea of what you can explore on your upcoming trip to Estes Park! As you plan your visit to this enchanting town, consider letting the team at Voyago host you in any of our stunning vacation rentals. Our selection of quality vacation rentals in Estes Park, ensures that your stay will be as amazing and enjoyable as the adventures that await you.
From large luxury cabins by Lake Estes to spacious homes with majestic mountain views, Voyago can give you the perfect place to call home for all your Rocky Mountain adventures. Each cabin features high-end furnishings, spacious rooms, gourmet kitchens and private outdoor spaces. With a variety of in-unit amenities and so much more, you’ll be living like a local in no time!
Explore With Ease
From exploring downtown Estes Park, to sauntering the amazing trails of Rocky Mountain National Park – Estes Park is bound to speak to the adventurer in you. Sample any of the amazing restaurants, shop ‘til you drop in boutiques and outdoor outlets and allow the natural world to amaze you everywhere you look.
The team at Voyago is excited to welcome you to Estes Park. Start planning your Estes Park adventure with the ideal accommodations to complement your experience. It all starts with having the right place to stay. First explore our vacation rental options so you can get out and explore more of Estes Park. Visit our website to reserve your Estes Park vacation rental today!
Summer vacation will be here before you know it and although the season may arrive a little later in our mountain town of Estes Park than it does in your own hometown, the winter playground of the nation offers summer adventures you will cherish forever. The snow has melted, the sun is shining, and the temperatures are that perfect blend of warm, but not too hot, encouraging travelers to get outside and savor the perfection of a Colorado summer day. This guide to planning your Estes Park summer getaway will help you plan a vacation that outshines all others, bringing you fun times, happy moments, and the knowledge that it will just keep getting better because you chose Voyago Vacation Rentals for your seasonal sanctuary.
Cross Another State Park off your Bucket List
Because we have lived at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park most of our lives, we have a fascination with state parks that carries over into our own vacation travels and whether you are in a similar situation or you are just looking for something extra to do, your first stop (after unpacking at your luxurious vacation escape) should be the park. Now summer time is a popular time to visit, so park services have created a Timed Entry Permit Reservation System, and we have attached the link here, to ensure that there are no hitches in your Park adventures; https://exploreestes.com/understanding-rocky-mountain-national-park-timed-entry-permit-system/.
After you have worked out the details, however, your fun times can begin, hiking (there are 355 miles of trails) wildlife watching (Rocky Mountain National Park is home to over 60 species of mammals) and maybe even exploring the collection found at the Moraine Park Museum.
Hanging out at Lake Estes
Perhaps the most summery adventure of all is a day spent at the lake and Lake Estes, a reservoir offering 5 miles of shoreline and a capacity of 3,068 acre-feet, offers the ideal way to do just that. For those who want to engage in more in-depth explorations of the lake, the Lake Estes Marina rents kayaks, paddle boards, and pontoon boats or you could simply fish from anywhere around the shore.
Also offering a pier with wheelchair access located just steps away from Fisherman’s Nook parking lot, the trout are always biting in Lake Estes. For those who can’t sit still, the marina rents bicycles as well as the items we have already listed and enjoy a leisurely ride around the nearly 4-mile-long trail that surrounds the lake.
While you are enjoying lake adventures, be sure to take note of the large white structure with a red roof that sits just off the lake; that is the Stanley Hotel where Stephen King came up with the idea of one of his most disturbing books, The Shining.
Mustang Mountain Coaster, 1180 Dry Gulch Road
Not all summer adventures in Estes Park have to be long, drawn-out affairs, you will probably want to enjoy spending at least some of your time exploring the amenities of your Voyago Vacation Rentals seasonal escape. The Mustang Mountain Coaster is an alpine coaster that is open year-round, you just won’t need to wear your parka, mittens, and hat in the summer months. Using the mountain terrain to gain speed, riders can determine how fast they want to go simply by controlling the hand brakes, so let your kiddos go at top speed and take a leisurely ride down the mountain, being sure to take in the lush Colorado scenery as you do. Riders must be at least 3 years old and at least 38 inches tall to ride the coaster and tickets cost $20 dollars per ride.
Ride the Rapids with Rapid Transit Rafting, 161 Virginia Drive, (970) 577-7238
For the ultimate in summer thrills, Rapid Transit Rafting offers whole day white water rafting trips on the Colorado River or half day trips on the Cache la Poudre River for $145 or $90 per person. The Colorado River offers a combination of Class II and Class III rapids, and a stop for lunch that the company provides while the Cache la Poudre River Rafting experience offers Class III rapids and is wild and scenic. Class II Rapids are rougher, in case you were wondering.
Exploring your Summer Sanctuary
All adventures begin and end at the doors of our Voyago Vacation Rentals summer sanctuaries, so be sure to schedule some time into your fun-filled itinerary to explore all the amenities we offer at home. Our lakefront rentals may be where you want to spend your summer days and nights, soaking in the serenity of the water as you relax in spaces that offer stunning views of Lake Estes. Reserve your favorite escape today and fall in love with the luxuries, comforts, and the joy our properties bring everyone who resides within.
If are an amateur photographer or someone who loves to post pics of their vacation to their social media you will want to know where you can find the most photographable places you visit. This includes Estes Park where you will find gorgeous scenery all around you. Pinpointing the most photographable spots can be a little difficult unless you know where to look. That is where we come in with this handy guide. Here are the most photographable spots located exclusively in Estes Park:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Perhaps the largest attraction near Estes Park is the Rocky Mountain National Park. This local park is a top draw to the area and is one of the most photographed parks in the country. No matter what time of year you visit Rocky Mountain National Park you are sure to find some truly inspirational scenery to photograph. With the park being so big you can easily drive around and simply take pics of what you enjoy seeing. Some more specific ideas in the park also include Bear Lake. This local attraction in the park is a favorite as the lake reflection offers a mirror reflection of the local mountains and trees on a calm day. Another favorite is Dream Lake which is a top draw in the summer or winter. The alpine surrounding helps offer beautiful scenery and the frozen water of winter lets you ice skate on top. The Alberta Falls are the cascading falls located in the park. You may be able to see packs of elk in the wild when you venture down into Moraine Park. Gem Lake is a more remote part of the park that takes a longer hike to get to. But once you reach it you will see a beautiful lake created by trapped snowmelt that offers a beautiful and distinct look.
Lake Estes
You will notice that Estes Park is surrounded by many beautiful lakes in the area. None is more prominent to Estes Park than Lake Estes itself. This center area of Estes Park offers many activities during the year including fishing, kayaking, boating, and much more. For those who wish to see the more photographable side of Lake Estes make sure to hike the near four-mile loop around the lake. This trail is known to many locals and visitors to check out the beautiful lake scenery. Herds of elk are also known to frequent the lake in the cooler seasons such as fall and winter. There is nothing more beautiful than nature in Estes Park.
Mary’s Lake
For those who prefer to avoid the busier crowds of Lake Estes you can always venture off to Mary’s Lake. This scenic lake is just as beautiful and is worth the extra travel to get to. Mary’s Lake is primarily used for boating and fishing during the summer season. The lake marina offers all of the boat and bike rentals you need so you can easily get around by land or water. Locals know that Mary’s Lake offers one of the top spots for sunsets as the reflection of the water offers a truly spectacular sight. Sunrises are also great if you can get to Mary’s Lake just before the sun rises overhead.
Prospect Mountain
You cannot get a better view than being high up in elevation and the same can be said for Estes Park. Visitors are able to take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the top of Prospect Mountain. Here you are able to enjoy panoramic views of the area from the viewing deck. The ride to the top is memorable with the increase of elevation offering more and more things to see. There is plenty of land up top to navigate around and offers easy enough hiking for little ones too.
MacGregor Ranch
If you want to photographic the more historical side of Estes Park make sure to visit MacGregor Ranch. This historic ranch was initially built in the 1870s and has been preserved since then. You will find plenty of horses and cattle that call the ranch home as they graze on the meadow. Guided tours will take you around the property with stops along the smokehouse, milk house, blacksmith shops, and more. The main building offers a museum like tour where you can see original belongings from the MacGregor family who built the ranch. Your photography tour of Estes Park does not have to only include pictures of local mountains.
Estes Park is Waiting
Do not forget your camera and make sure you visit Estes Park for your next vacation getaway. Our vacation rentals will keep you comfortable in between your photo shoots so find your favorite rental today. Come see why Estes Park is the jewel of the Denver area in Colorado and start your Estes Park sightseeing adventure and contact us today!