Estes Park, Colorado is a gorgeous area of Colorado that I recommend everyone visits while in nearby Denver or Boulder. This small town of only 6,500 residents is set at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park and is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural scenery of the area.
From Denver, it’s about a 3-hour drive. After you pass Boulder, you’ll be greeted with some seriously stunning vistas that will have you pulling over for photos every 100 feet!
There are so many things to love about Colorado. Gorgeous natural scenery, friendly people, and of course, an abundance of hemp oil products. Here are some of the best things I love about Estes Park, and what to do the next time you visit.
Go Horseback Riding
I love horseback riding in Estes Park. There are a ton of small outfitters who take riders through the base of the Rocky Mountains, on short one or two hour trails. One of my favorites is Sombrero Saddles. The friendly cowboys there will be sure to keep you in good hands, and their horses run these trails all day long.
Go Hiking Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
For some of the best vistas in the area, go hiking in Glacier Gorge, located in Rocky Mountain National Park. This hike is best to do in the summer months as the winter brings lots of snow. Many people take the GG trailhead on to Sky Pond, where you’ll find a gorgeous glacial lake surrounded by mountains.
Visit The Stanley Hotel
Are you a fan of the movie, “The Shining?” If so, you’ll love taking a visit to the Stanley Hotel. Come for a cocktail and all the spooky vibes. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more thrilling — stay the night! The Stanley is famous for being the hotel that inspired The Shining. The grounds of the place are also gorgeous, with a big sweeping porch that begs you to slow down and have a cocktail. Downstairs you’ll find a coffee shop, so after you’ve taken your photos and before you hit the road to go back home, be sure to properly caffeinate.
Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Take in the sights of the Rocky Mountains from above in a fun ride on the tram in Estes Park. The tram rides to the top of Prospect Mountain and is family-owned and operated. It takes a little more than 15 minutes to reach the top and costs $14 per adult. Children under the age of 5 ride free.
Explore the small town of Estes Park
Take in the sights of this small town and its local buildings, many of which date back to the early 1900s. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Park Theater, one of the oldest theaters in the country. You might not be able to catch a film there, but it’s a cool backdrop for a family photo!
Have you ever been to Estes Park? What are your favorite parts of Colorado?
