estes park travel guide location of the stanley hotel
TRANSCRIPT
FREE OFFICIAL VISITOR
GUIDE VISITESTESPARK.COM
ESTES PARKCOLORADO
STUNNINGROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK p. 50
CHOOSE YOUR OWNADVENTURE p. 30WILD TO MILDOUTDOOR ACTIVITIES p. 16A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION p. 34
TOP TRAILS TO TRY p. 22
The Only Lakeside Hotel in Estes ParkPanoramic Views of Lake Estes, Longs Peak and the Continental Divide• Full Service Hotel • Indoor Swimming Pool • Whirlpool • Game Room • Saunas • Spa Services • Meeting and Banquet Facilities for Up to 225 • Wedding Venue & Packages • Corporate Retreats • Live Music • Outdoor Lakeside Fire Pits
Waterfront Grille—Outdoor, Lakeside Deck Dining • Full Wine List & Extensive Colorado Microbrew Selection
EXPLORE THEESTES PARK RESORT
1700 BIG THOMPSON AVENUE | ESTES PARK, CO 80517 | 970-577-6400 | 855-377-3778 | WWW.THEESTESPARKRESORT.COM
800.443.7837 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM | 1
The Big Five12 Learn where and when to spy elk,deer, bighorns, moose and bear.
Wild to Mild16 Outdoor activities for every level.
Through the Years34 Join the Centennial Celebration as Estes Park turns 100.
Village Virtues39 Shopping. Craft beer. Family- friendly fun. The village has what you want.
An Awesome Wonder50 Rocky Mountain National Park. Enough said.
Forest Fun56 Hike, camp, ride horses and more inside Roosevelt National Forest.
rocky mountain highs 11 EVENTS 26 THINGS TO TRY 30 PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE 32 ARTISTS: MOUNTAIN INSPIRED 46 DINING: BASE CAMP FOR YUM 58 WEDDINGS: VIEWS & VOWS 60 GROUP TRAVEL: ONE BIG HAPPY
plan your mountain escape 2 ESSENTIALS 62 LODGING 79 DIRECTORY
contentsCONTRARY TO THE DEEP SOUND you think bull elk might make because of their stature, their bugles are more akin to high-pitched squeals sometimes followed by guttural grunts.
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WELCOME TO “WOW”e s t e s pa r k
Roughly 70 miles from Denver, discover the breathtaking town of Estes Park. This mountain village
brims with one-of-a-kind art, tasty eats, restful accommodations,
diverse shopping and dozens of outdoor activities for every season. Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest frame the
valley, and Estes Park is their thriving, year-round base camp.
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ESTES PARK ELEVATION 7,522 FT.Elevations climb to more than 14,000 feet inside Rocky Mountain National Park.These peaks are a few of the 60+ ones higher than 12,000 feet that comprise the Continental Divide and defi ne the skyline around Estes Park.
WINTER
|WITH TOTAL ANNUAL snow-fall in town averaging about 33 inches, getting around the village is easy. Sidewalks are kept clear, and every street in town is plowed. More snow falls at the higher elevations inside Rocky Mountain National Park, so skiers, snowshoers and sledders at Hidden Valley fi nd plenty of powder, particularly in March and April when accumulation reaches 36 inches or more.
SPRING
|MELTING SNOW pours off stony edges as waterfalls, and mountain bluebirds migrate to Rocky Mountain National Park. Bear cubs follow their mothers through budding trees. Lanky elk calves fi nd their legs. Hikers spy showy purple-and-yellow pasque fl owers, and the surrounding landscape turns into a postcard-perfect scene of snowcapped mountains edged by emerald meadows and azure skies.
SUMMER
|WITH SCHOOL OUT and a rise in temperature, folks are out and about. Trails are clear and dry. The village buzzes with festivals, live music and the First Friday Art Grooves. Everywhere, it seems, some-thing is happening! Climb Trail Ridge Road in a bike saddle or the driver’s seat and cross the Continental Divide. Ride a horse into Roosevelt National Forest. Or, simply sit by one of the rivers and relax.
FALL
|KNOWN AS COLORADO’S gold season, autumn sees aspens turning yellow and grasses growing tawny. In Estes Park, anglers know there’s a fall hatch, which makes it an ideal time to cast a line in one of the area rivers. Bugling elk add to the season’s treasures. Their shrill calls herald the rut, or breeding season, when bulls claim cows and herd them to meadows often in plain sight of onlookers.
4 Seasons in FocusEstes Park is beautiful all year long.
Mount Meeker
13,911 ft.
ChiefsHead
13,579 ft.McHenrys
Peak
13,327 ft.
Longs Peak
14,259 ft.Hallett Peak
12,713 ft.TaylorPeak
13,153 ft.Flattop
Mountain
12,324 ft.
Otis Peak
12,486 ft.Hagues
Peak
13,570 ft.
Ypsilon Mountain
13,514 ft.
Storm Peak
13,326 ft.
ThatchtopMountain
12,668 ft.
MummyMountain
13,425 ft.
MountChiquita
13,075 ft.
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THE ESTES PARK VISITOR CENTER, open year-round at 500 Big Thompson Ave., off ers information about lodging, dining and activities, plus local ambassadors and staff are happy to answer all your questions.
BROWSE WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM
800.443.7837
come visit us!
“At Estes Park, active couples can go whitewater rafting, fi shing, horseback riding, hiking, climbing, zip-lining and ropes-coursing all in one weekend.”
—“THE MOST ROMANTIC WEEKEND GETAWAY IN EVERY STATE,” THRILLISTES
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PARK & RIDEGetting around Estes Park is easy thanks to connecting transportation systems.
For 12 weeks during warm weather months, the Town of Estes Park provides free shuttle service between lodging facilities, dining, things to do and connections to Rocky Mountain National Park shuttles. Find times and routes at www.estes.org/shuttles.
Travel downtown’s Elkhorn Avenue aboard a free trolley that runs from June to Sept-ember along this main street.
The Rocky Mountain National Park Hiker Shuttle runs from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the national park’s Park & Ride lot on Bear Lake Road, where hikers may transfer to other national park shuttles to reach popular recreational areas.
Paid shuttle or taxi services are available from Denver International Airport or Union Station. Complete transportation information, including Rocky Mountain National Park and town shuttle details, is available at www.VisitEstesPark.com/shuttle and 970-577-9900.
“While the town of Estes Park
itself is relaxed (elk have been
known to wander
downtown streets), there are marked touches
of class.”
—“THE 20 BEST SMALL TOWNS TO VISIT IN 2015,”
SMITHSONIAN MAGAZINE
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YMCAROCKIES.ORG
Bordered on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado is the perfect place
to get out and have fun with your family. Comfortable cabins and lodges, plus more activities (inside and out) for all ages.
VISIT YMCA OF THE ROCKIES — AFTER ALL NOT ALL PLACES HAVE FOUR WALLS.
EXPLORE. DISCOVER. ADVENTURE.
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ESTES PARK MEDICAL CENTERYour peace of mind while on vacation—
we’re here 24/7!
970-586-2317www.epmedcenter.com | 555 Prospect Ave.
Full Service Medical Center and 24-Hour Emergency Care
Press Ganey Award Winner for Patient Satisfaction
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Estes Park
Colorado Springs130 miles
Grand Junction295 miles
Denver70 miles
Fort Collins40 milesLoveland35 miles
Boulder35 miles
Longmont30 miles
Cheyenne, WY90 miles
Scheduled Daily Service To and From
Denver International Airport—
Guided Mountain Tours—
Chartered Service for Groups & Weddings
970-586-5151Book Reservations Online: www.estesparkshuttle.com
Accessible year-round, Estes Park lies at the intersection of three well-marked, well-maintained highways about 70 miles from Denver.
EASY TRANSPORTATIONTravel between Estes Park and Denver International Airport is a cinch when you use the Estes Park Shuttle. It operates daily, scheduled service that is perfect for large groups and families.
From Denver International Airport: Connect with I-25 north to Colorado 66 west to U.S. Highway 36 west. From the northeast: Take U.S. Highway 34 west from Loveland. Be aware that this route is closed for construction through spring 2017. Until U.S. Highway 34 reopens, take I-25 to Colorado 66, then west to Lyons, where
you pick up U.S. Highway 36 west. For specifi c construction information, visit www.VisitEstesPark.com/travel.From the southeast: From Boulder, travel U.S. Highway 36 north to Colorado 66, then west through Lyons, where you pick up U.S. Highway 36 west.From the west: Between May and October, take U.S. Highway 34/
Trail Ridge Road (as weather permits) from Grand Lake, through Rocky Mountain National Park, across the Continental Divide and into Estes Park’s western edge. From here, U.S. Highway 34 and U.S. Highway 36 east lead into town. In winter, take I-70 east to I-25 north, then U.S. Highway 36 west to Boulder, then follow directions, “From the southeast.”
In case your GPS fails, we’ve got you covered
(see map insert).
starting from... Rocky Mountain
National Park
NEW MEXICO
UTAH
OKLAHOMA
WYOMING
KANSAS
NEBRASKAEstes Park
COLORADO
Denver
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1509 Fish Hatchery Road (off Hwy. 34, toward the north entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park) 970-586-4153 | www.estesparkumc.org | Visit us on
United Methodist Church of Estes Park
9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship Service
10:45 a.m. Fellowship Time
11 a.m. Adult Sunday School
Visitors Welcome
Estes Village Properties, LTD
970-586-4425www.EstesParkRealEstate.com
Coldwell Banker has been offering
excellent service in the Estes Valley since 1985.
LEARN MOREwww.estesparkedc.com | [email protected]
Picture Your Business in Estes Park
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Providing a healthy, clean & funfacility to board your family pet.
970-586-9282www.EstesParkPetLodge.com
1260 Manford Ave., Estes Park, CO
• Boarding Family Pets• Doggie Day Care• Overnight Stays• 24-Hour Veterinary Care
What is the entrance fee into Rocky Mountain National Park, and how long will it take me to get there from the village? Seven-day passes cost $30 per car. One-day passes cost $20. Annual passes run $60. Depend-ing on the season and which entrance you choose, it takes between 5 and 10 minutes to reach the national park from downtown. Summertime and fall weekends are very busy. Plan to arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m.
When is the best time to see the leaves change? Leaves generally start changing color at higher elevations in mid-Septem-ber, with colors peaking in Estes Park from late September through early October.
What is there to do in Estes Park? Lots! Estes Park and its surrounding public lands—Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest—present opportunities for hiking, fi shing, biking, rock climbing, golf, horseback riding, guided tours, art galleries, shopping, museums, live entertainment, festivals, restaurants, spas, boating, showshoeing and more, all topped off by amazing views.
Q&AIs Estes Park actually a park? No. Estes Park is a welcoming village at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The “park” in the town’s name comes from a geologic term describing a valley. “Estes” recognizes Joel Estes and his family, the pioneers credited with fi rst settling the area.
Where can I have a picnic in Estes Park? Many of the picnic areas, such as Tregent Park, Riverside Plaza and Perfor-mance Park are found beside Fall River or Big Thompson River. Additional picnic areas that dot the Lake Estes Trail are shown on the insert map.
Where can I rent outdoor sports gear? Rentals are available at several local outfi tters and shops. Find details at www.VisitEstesPark.com.
CENTENNIAL FIGURESEnos Mills arrived in Estes Park in 1884. Taken with the area’s grandeur, he began building his homestead and touted the region’s beauty in writing and speeches. He lobbied for the development of national parks and is recog-nized as the father of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Isabella Bird visited the area in 1873. She climbed Longs Peak and chronicled her Estes Park adventures in A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains. The Victorian public loved reading about her wilderness travels. Her words inspired others to seek Estes Park’s beautiful sunsets, craggy peaks and pine forests.
Where can we see elk? Elk are visible throughout the year. Mid-May to mid-June is calving season, so you might see groups of cows and their young in lower-lying areas often near rivers. In warmer weather, the herds move to higher ground. In fall, they migrate back to Estes Park, often gathering in large, open areas, such as the town’s two golf courses or inside Rocky Moun-tain National Park’s Horseshoe and Mo-raine parks. No matter the season, keep your distance. Wildlife can be unpredictable.
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Ensure a safe outing by knowing mountain weather can change quickly and the altitude is high. Take a stocked pack and a buddy. Also, let someone else know your route and des-tination. Use the list here, suggested by local sports shop owners Kirk Bien, Rob Mardock and David Novic.���������
HEADLAMP: These are hands-free and handy, especially if night falls before you’ve made it home.
COMPASS: Don’t rely on your smart phone. Use a compass to track where you are and where you are going.
HIKING BOOTS: Choose a sturdy pair with ankle support. Waterproof versions help keep feet dry and blister-free.
FIRST-AID KIT: You never know when you might need a Band-Aid.
WATER: Exercising at altitudes above 7,500 feet may cause shortness of breath, dizziness and headaches. Counter those eff ects by drinking plenty of water, no matter the season.
RAIN GEAR: Take a jacket. Storms can move in quickly. SUN PROTECTION: For every
1,000 feet in elevation gain, light exposure increases up to 10 percent, meaning that at 11,000 feet, your skin can burn in just six minutes of exposure. Protect yourself year-round.
WHISTLE: Use it to attract attention and alert wildlife.
MAPS: Know where you’re going. Leave early in the morning if you’re hiking above the tree line; plan to be back into the trees by mid-afternoon.
FUEL: Bring snacks to sustain you.
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star powerStargazing is one of those activities you can do alone, with kids, on a romantic date, or with any combination of family and friends. For an educational experience, visit the Estes Park Memorial Observatory to explore the moon and stars with a Mead 12-inch LX200 Schmidt-Cassergrain telescope or to learn about astronomy, cosmology or astrophotography. The Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers family astronomy nights, and rangers in Rocky Mountain National Park lead programs dedicated to viewing the night sky.
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Growing up in Estes I am fortunate enough to call these Rocky
Mountains my home. It is an incredible place to live and play music.
—Will Thomas, Estes Park musician
OUR AVERAGE TEMPERATURES degrees in Fahrenheiti am estes
winter40°|19°
WHAT TO WEARLONG SLEEVES,
LONG PANTS, HEAVY COAT, HAT, GLOVES, BOOTS
summer76°|52°
WHAT TO WEARSHORT SLEEVES,
SHORTS, LONG PANTS AND LIGHT JACKET AT
NIGHT, HAT
spring53°|30°
WHAT TO WEARLONG SLEEVES,
LONG PANTS, LIGHT JACKET,
HAT
fall58°|35°
WHAT TO WEARLONG SLEEVES,
LONG PANTS, JACKET, HAT
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APRNATIONAL PARK WEEKFREE ENTRANCE DAYS
m
OCTELK FEST
PUMPKINS & PILSNERS FESTIVAL
EV
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TS
JANWINTER FESTIVAL
WINTER TRAILS DAY SNOWSHOE FESTIVALFROST GIANT 5K & 10K
JULJULY 4 FIREWORKS
COOLEST CAR SHOWROOFTOP RODEO
AUGCOLORADO SENIOR PRO
CHARITY RODEOESTES PARK WINE FESTIVAL
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HALF MARATHON
MAY29TH ANNUAL ESTES PARK
DUCK RACE & FESTIVALVINTAGE MARKET DAYS
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ART MARKET
NOVFALL BACK BEER FESTIVAL
CATCH THE GLOW CHRISTMAS PARADE & CELEBRATION
FEBRAILS IN THE ROCKIES
ESTES PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL WINTER SERIES CONCERTS
SEPELK FEST
LABOR DAY ARTS & CRAFTS SHOWFINE ARTS GUILD JURIED ART SHOW
SCOTTISH IRISH HIGHLAND FESTIVAL
AUTUMN GOLD
DECQUOTA CLUB HOME TOUR
TINSEL TAVERN TOUR
MARWHISKEY WARM UP—
WHISKEY TASTING FESTIVAL
JUNJAZZ FEST & ART WALK
WINDOWS TO THE WEST ART SHOW & SALE
WOOL MARKET & FIBER FESTIVALESTES PARK MARATHON
SCANDINAVIAN MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL
Discover more at www.VisitEstesPark.com/events.
WHAT’S HAPPENINGBuzzing and vibrant all year long, Estes Park presents a calendar full of festivals and events. This year, look for events tied to the Centennial Celebration at www.EstesPark100.com!
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THE BIG FIVE
Do not leaveyour camera at home
Estes Park’s allure starts at the horizon. In every direction, mountains rise to kiss blue Colorado skies. It’s hard to look away. The views mesmerize; they offer respite; they present Nature—capital “N”—in all its glory. Then, something stirs in the foreground, and
the uneven peaks are forgotten as fi ngers point and excitement rises because one of the region’s “big fi ve” has sauntered into view. It is one thing to see elk, black bear, big horn sheep, mule deer and moose in photographs or in documentaries. It is quite another to see
the real thing. Live. In-person. The lands in and around Estes Park provide excellent habitat for and viewing of these wild animal all-stars.
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In autumn, bull elk signal the mating season with a deep sound that rises rapidly to a high-pitched squeal before becoming a series of grunts. The eerie bugle echoes through the fall nights, signaling the bull’s presence to other males and attracting females.
Typically elk are social creatures, with spikes (year-ling males), cows and calves migrating together. Young bulls may gather in bachelor groups, while older bulls hang out alone until the rut, or breeding season, when they claim several cows to create a harem. Calves are born May to June, their fur showing spots until late summer. They have few natural predators except mountain lions. Coyotes may sometimes take a calf.
WHERE TO SEE : In autumn and winter, herds congregate in open, low-land meadows, such as Horseshoe Park, Moraine Park and Upper Beaver Meadows. They also frequent the town’s golf courses and other open spaces. During spring, calves hide in tall grasses while the rest of the herd grazes in valleys near rivers. In summer, they often move to higher ground and forage near Trail Ridge Road inside the national park. WHEN TO SEE: Elk graze in the mornings and evenings, but during the rut, perhaps the most exciting time to see them, they are active throughout the day. Bulls are on the move, bugling to attract females and deter other bulls, rubbing their antlers, and occasionally spar-ring to express dominance.
THE UNOFFICIAL MASCOT OF ESTES PARK, elk are among the easiest animals to spot in every season. Regal, charismatic and imposing, the bulls, or males, stand about as tall as a horse. In the open, bulls and cows attract the eye because of their dark-brown manes, white rumps and tawny bodies.
In the early days of the American West, elk, or wapiti as they are also called, were hunted nearly to extinction. By the 1890s, few, if any, remained in the Estes Valley. That changed in 1913 and 1914, however, when locals arranged for 49 elk from Yellowstone National Park to be transplanted to the area. Since then, their population has grown signifi cantly.
elk
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CLAIMED AS THE SYMBOL of Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, bighorn sheep impress with their ability to maneuver onto improbable ledges and mountain faces, where they balance with ease. About 7,000 live in the state, including the Rocky Mountain subspecies, which likes the habitat near Estes Park. Today, about 300 to 400 live in the Rocky Mountain National Park area, sometimes lingering near Cow Creek and the North St. Vrain River.
Both males (rams) and females (ewes) grow horns that do not shed. Although they travel in herds—males in bachelor groups and ewes together with their lambs—their grayish-brown coats camoufl age them so well that you might not notice them until it looks like a rock or part of a cliff moves. During fall, rams compete for mating rights by rearing up and running toward each other at speeds up to 40 mph. The sound of their colliding horns can be heard up to one mile away!
WHERE TO SEE: Natural salt licks and minerals attract bighorn sheep to areas near Sheep Lakes inside the national park. Look for them, too, at Rock Cut. WHEN TO SEE: In late spring and early summer, check Sheep Lakes between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Look for lambs in summer. During winter, bighorns prefer south- or west-facing slopes where the sun melts the snow and exposes succulent grasses.
DID YOU KNOW? Black bears can see in color, and they have good vision up-close. They also are excellent swimmers, reportedly able to swim at least 1.5 miles in fresh water.
for mothers and cubs. Mating takes place in May and June, but egg implantation does not occur until fall. If a female does not gain enough weight before hibernation, her body reabsorbs the eggs. Omnivorous, bears prefer berries, roots, nuts and insects but will also eat carrion and garbage.
WHERE TO SEE: Look for bears in forests and meadows. If you’re hiking, be sure to look up; one might be hanging out in a tree. WHEN TO SEE: When they emerge from their dens in spring, they are hungry and spend a lot of time eating. Eating continues through the summer and fall, with most dining happening in the morning and early evening.
EXPERTS ESTIMATE THAT only 30 black bears live in the area of Rocky Mountain National Park. They tend to be elusive, which makes sighting one exciting. In mid-day, they usually rest, waiting until it is dark to move around. They look cuddly and slow, but in spite of their 200 to 600 pounds, they are lithe and quick. They nimbly climb trees and can easily outrun a person. They can travel long distances, especially if a tasty meal rewards the journey. Their sensitive noses can sniff out food up to fi ve miles away!
Although named black bears, they also can be dark brown, cinnamon or blonde, colors sometimes mistaken for grizzlies. But grizzly bears do not live in the national park. Bears live alone except
black bear
bighorn sheep
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RELATED TO ELK, mule deer outnumber their cousins in the state by about 200,000. Still, in the area around Estes Park, visitors are more likely to see elk than deer. Bucks don’t show themselves as often as the does, but when you spy a mature buck, its antlers can be quite impressive. They shed their bony crowns each February and almost immediately start growing a new set. Deer are social and live in multi-generation families of related females and off-spring, but bucks older than a year will separate to live alone or in groups with other young bucks. During the fall rut, the bucks expend a lot of energy in courtship and breeding, so many do not live through the winter. But come spring, spotted newborn fawns ensure the species’ survival, and the cycle of life starts again.
The skittish creatures are important to the region’s food chain as they are the preferred prey of mountain lions. Coyotes and bobcats also hunt them. Come winter when other prey is harder for predators to fi nd, deer fend off these predators by banding together with other deer families.
WHERE TO SEE: Look for mule deer in open areas dotted with bushes and shrubs, particularly at lower elevations, but they also linger at the forest edge. WHEN TO SEE: Keep your eyes open at dusk and dawn, the time when mule deer are most often nibbling shrubs, trees, grasses and forbs. During the day, they bed down among the trees.
DID YOU KNOW? The average mule deer weighs about as much as an average man, about 212 pounds, and lives about 10 years in the wild.
about three-quarters as much and do not grow antlers, but both sexes, bulls and cows, have “bells,” a ball of skin that hangs from their necks. They live as solitary creatures, except mothers and calves, and get together only during the rut. Cows choose a bull based on the size of his antlers, which he uses to fend off other bulls during the rut. After breeding, he loses his antlers until the next spring when they begin growing again.
WHERE TO SEE: Because they dine on willows, aspens and aquatic plants, moose are most often visible in riparian areas near rivers and lakes. WHEN TO SEE: You can see moose anytime throughout the day.
KEEP THE “WILD” IN WILDLIFEBY TAKING A FEW EXTRA PRECAUTIONS, you can help keep yourself and Estes Park’s wildlife population safe, particularly black bears. Their keen sense of smell attracts them to trash and anything with a scent that may provide an easy meal. To avoid unwanted bear and other wildlife encounters, follow these guidelines:
1 Keep your distance from wild animals.2 Do not feed wildlife,
even the chipmunks. 3 Properly dispose of
all trash and food using trash receptacles. Fruit cores and seeds should be thrown away, too, as they can attract bears to human areas. 4 At lodging properties
and while camping, store all food, including pet food, and all scented items in proper bear-proof containers. As a last resort, you may put them in the trunk of your car. 5 Keep bear-accessible
windows and doors, including garage doors, closed and locked at all times at hotel rooms, cabins and vacation homes.
DESPITE THEIR SIZE AND BULLWINKLE REPUTATION, these large ungulates often surprise anglers with their stealth movements. More than one fi sherman has told a story of looking up from tying a fl y only to realize that he is sharing the water with the paddle-headed beast. Until recently, moose were not spotted very often in Estes Park or on the national park’s east side. Today, how-ever, sightings are increasing as moose migrate over the Continental Divide. Their long legs carry them through deep snow and across racing rivers and streams without a problem.
As tall as a basketball player at their shoulder, large males can weigh as much as 1,500 pounds. Females weigh
moose
mule deer
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PUSH YOUR LIMITSROCK CLIMBING: With in-town locations and spots within Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest, climbers fi nd more than 1,200 bouldering, sport and traditional routes. An indoor climbing wall welcomes beginners and those wanting to practice when the weather is challenging.
TRAIL RUNNING: According to www.MapMyRun.com, more than 1,500 gravel or dirt routes in the Estes Park area give trail runners plenty of miles to cover—and gorgeous scenery to take in—while the thin air at 7,000-plus feet enhances their overall fi tness.
MOUNTAIN BIKING: Fansof the fat tire fi nd boulders and other technical terrain on trails outside Rocky Mountain National Park. The views are thrilling, and so are the grades. Pole Hill, just off U.S. Highway 36, promises descents that leave riders breathless and challenged.
BACKPACKING: Long-distance, overnight hikes thread throughout Rocky Mountain National Park or Roosevelt National Forest. Depending on your route, you may pass through woodlands or alpine tundra, beside waterfalls or across the Continental Divide. Permits are required year-round to backpack in the national park and during summer in the national forest.
ICE CLIMBING: Look tothe national park for epicice climbing adventures for experienced climbers. A favorite, Hidden Falls, has a short approach. Others—Jaws, The Squid, All Mixed Up, plus about 20 more—present longer approaches. Want to give ice climbing a try? Local outfi tters will safely show you the ropes (and the ice picks).
MOUNTAINEERING: More complicated than hiking,mountaineering requiresskill and technical gear to reach the top. In Estes Park, several summits beckon,but one stands out—LongsPeak. At 14,259 feet high, it has lured mountaineers for more than a century.
No matter your level of skill, Estes Park presents dozens of activities to invite you outside in every season. Here are several to get you started.
wildtomildwild
A favorite area of mine is Wild Basin. It boasts quality snow,
quiet trails and frozen waterfalls; it’s snow-
shoeing at its best.—Monica Meyers, snowshoer and innkeeper, Gold Leaf Inn
i am estes
moderate
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often suitable as is the highersection of Trail Ridge Roadthat is closed to motorists inthe winter.
PICKLEBALL: Easy on joints and good for athletes of all abilities, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court with a plastic whiffl e ball and wooden paddles. Play on courts at Stanley Park; equipment is available from the nearby Youth Center & Recreation Offi ce.
YOGA: Both a physical and spiritual exercise, yoga fi ts beautifully into a mountain setting. Find balance while practicing on your own in a quiet spot outdoors, or learn something new while taking a class with a local instructor.
Mountain National Park, there are special fi shing regulations. If you snag a threatened greenback cutthroat, for example, you must release it.
HORSEBACK RIDING: Somehow the scenery just seems better from the back of a horse, so saddle up. Area wranglers lead rides from one hour to overnight. Some even offer breakfast or steak dinnerrides. Others guide pack tripsto remote lakes and streams. Or, if you brought your own horse, you may ride trails in Roosevelt National Forest or follow select routes in the national park.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: Head into the national parkto fi nd pristine conditionsfor cross-country skiing.Trails near Sprague Lake are
COMFORT ZONESNOWSHOEING: Easily accessed trails, notably the ones to Emerald Lake or Mills Lake inside Rocky Mountain National Park, make the area a trekking paradise. Plus, the activity is easy to do: If you can hike, then you can snowshoe. Didn’t bring gear? No problem. Local sports shops rent snowshoes, poles and boots.
FISHING: With the BigThompson River runningright through the village, LakeEstes to the east, Fall Riverto the west and several othernearby blueways, anglers fi ndmany places to cast a line.Flyfi shers and spin casters often catch trout—rainbows and browns. In Rocky
AREA GEAR SHOPS rent equipment for cross-country skiing, alpine touring, downhill skiing and snowboarding.
AFTER AN AFTERNOON OF SLEDDING at Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park, warm up with some hot cocoa in town.
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TAKE IT EASYCAMPING: Whether on your own or with a group, camping is a memorable way to experience nature. Woods, rivers and mountains lie just beyond the tent fl ap, inviting exploration. Colorado’s night sky unfolds into a blanket of stars. And marshmallows taste better when roasted over a campfi re. Commercial campgrounds, including ones that accommodate RVs, dot the area. Sites also are found in the national forest and the national park (reserve in advance), but a permit is required to backcountry camp in the national park.
GOLF: Everyone, it seems,loves the two golf coursesin Estes Park. Elk and deercannot get enough of the soft
fairways and shady trees—they’re often found beddingdown there. Undaunted,golfers play through on bothan 18-hole regulation course,which plays for a par 71 fromthe long blue tees, and anine-hole course, which hugsthe Big Thompson River andis open even during winter.Amazingly, the greens on thenine-holer remain snow-freenearly every day of the year.
SCENIC TRAILS: Several low-effort paths lead through the village, along Lake Estes and beneath stunning peaks.Bicyclists, runners and walkers particularly enjoy the Lake Estes Loop, which winds around the lake and connects with other trails. You can even make two wheels your primary mode of transportation since some trails connect down-town to lodging properties.
Golf in estes park is unlike anywhere else. you golf surrounded by scenic mountains, play among wildlife and also get a well-
maintained golf course.—Austin Logan, assistant golf
professional, Estes Park Golf Course
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970.586.65482050 Big Thompson Ave. | Always Plenty of Free Parking
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970.586.65482050 Big Thompson Ave. | Always Plenty of Free Parking
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MountainWhitewater
Whitewater Rafting Adventures
Irish Pub with Altitude• Karaoke, Open Mic, Live Music • Big Screen HD TVs
• Daily Happy Hour and Local Beer! • Full Menu & Grille Open Late
110 West Elkhorn Avenue 970-586-4346
Two18-Hole Mini Golf CoursesTwo Giant SlidesBumper CarsBumper BoatsGo KartsBungee Jump
970.586.2828 | www.funcityofestes.com
The national park offers a big variety, from minimal tree
skiing to aggressive skiing. You can make it as complex as you want.
—Zach Zehr, Estes Park outdoorsman
i am estes
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An upscale vintage-inspired market featuring:vintage • architectural salvage • repurposed finds
jewelry & clothing • live music • food trucks
MAY 19–21 & OCT 13–15Estes Park Events Center
1209 Manford Ave. FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 10–5 10–5 10–4
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James Frank Photographyi
Showcasing Images of Rocky Mountain National Park ........................................................................................................................
Work featured at Aspen and Evergreen GalleryDowntown East End next to Starbucks
970.586.3418 ~ JamesFrank.com
HIKING: Exploring the Rocky Mountains is as simple as putting one foot in front of the other. Hundreds of miles of trails crisscross the area in and around Estes Park, including in-town paths, such as those at Centennial Open Space at the Knoll-Willows (known locally as The Knoll), tracks in Roosevelt National Forest and routes throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. Trails pass through several different habitats, including riparian, meadow, evergreen forest and alpine tundra. In fact, the national park packs into its square miles the same variety of landscape seen on a drive from Denver to northern Alaska. Enjoy the unique terrain and scenic views.
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BIRDING: More than 270 species of native and migratory birds fl ock to the Estes Valley each year. Among them are peregrine falcons, rufous hummingbirds and bald eagles. Birders will fi nd many of those varieties in Rocky Mountain National Park, but other areas are equally productive. Try the Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary near Lake Estes or Wapiti Meadows below the Olympus Dam.
WILDLIFE WATCHING: Many animals call this region home—mule deer, black bear, fox, coyote, beaver, marmot, pika, mountain lion—but elk are the stars. They rut during September and October, showing off to attract mates. Come winter, heavy snows push the creatures to lower elevations,
meaning elk, mule deer and bighorn sheep might show up in very public spaces. Spring brings youngsters fi nding their legs or shyly peeking from behind mom. For more details about the area’s “big 5” wild creatures, turn to page 12.
GEOCACHING: With more than 2 million geocaches worldwide, Estes Park must have some, right? There are more than 200, in fact! The Across the Divide GeoTour includes 54 caches between Estes Park and Grand Lake. Roughly 30 of them are found between Estes Park and west to the Alpine Visitor Center inside the national park. Pick up your GeoTour Passport at the Estes Park Visitor Center to start navigating toward nearby geocaches.
SAFETY TIP: When hiking in open areas or above tree line, keep an eye on the clouds. If storms roll in, move to lower ground quickly. Lightning can occur at any time. Generally storms arrive in the afternoon, so be prepared.
ADV TENTURE FOR ALL!
www.evrpd.com | 970.586.8191
Estes Park Campground at Mary’s Lake • Estes Park Campground at East Portal Estes Park Marina (pontoons, paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, bicycles) Golf • Swimming • Picnic Pavilions
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TRAIL TRAILHEADLOCATION
ROUND-TRIP DISTANCE
ELEVATION GAIN
DIF
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NOTES & HIGHLIGHTS
INSIDE ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK (Pets are not allowed.)
SPRAGUE LAKE off Bear Lake Road .5 mi./.8 km loop 10 ft./3 m L Family-friendly; disabled-accessible; circles the lake
BEAR LAKE end of Bear Lake Road .5 mi./.8 km 20 ft./6 m L Family-friendly; disabled-accessible; self-guided nature trail onsite
COPELAND FALLS Wild Basin .6 mi./1 km 15 ft./5 m Alluring set of cascades in the southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park; suitable for families
MORAINE PARK DISCOVERY CENTER NATURE TRAIL on Bear Lake Road .8 mi./1.3 km
loop 20 ft./6 m M Family-friendly; self-guided booklet interprets this nature walk with beautiful views
LILY LAKE off CO Highway 7 .9 mi./1.5 km no gain L Ideal for families or those with limited time or abilities; suitable for strollers & hikers of all ages
THE POOL Fern Lake off
Bear Lake Road 3.4 mi./5.4 km 245 ft./74 m Shaded; winds along a rushing stream
NYMPH LAKE Bear Lake 1 mi./1.6 km 225 ft./68.5 m L A great hike to a small, scenic subalpine lake; highly recommended for families
TUNDRA COMMUNITIES TRAIL
Rock Cut on Trail Ridge Road 1.1 mi./1.7 km 175 ft./53 m M Family-friendly; shows off the tundra
ALBERTA FALLS Glacier Gorge 1.6 mi./2.6 km 210 ft./64 m A moderate hike to a popular waterfall
DREAM LAKE Bear Lake Trailhead 2.2 mi./3.5 km 425 ft./129.5 m L One of the most popular destination hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
EUGENIA MINE Longs Peak 2.8 mi./4.5 km 508 ft./154 m M Leads through lodgepole pine, spruce and fi r to the site of a working mine from 1905–1912
BIERSTADT LAKE LOOP Bear Lake Road 3.2 mi./5.15 km 725 ft./220.9 m L Climbs along a wooded ridge to an unobstructed view of surrounding mountains
CALYPSO CASCADES Wild Basin 3.6 mi./5.8 km 700 ft./231 m A nice, shady late spring hike that passes
numerous waterfalls
EMERALD LAKE Bear Lake 3.6 mi./5.8 km 605 ft./184 m L Heavily traffi cked out-and-back trail that’s good for all skill levels
LAKE HAIYAHA Bear Lake 4.2 mi./6.8 km 745 ft./227 m L Expect some rough footing. The lakeshore is rugged and rocky.
CUB LAKE Fern Lake 4.6 mi./7.4 km 540 ft./165 m L Passes through woods to a mountain pond
UPPER BEAVER MEADOWS LOOP off U.S. Highway 36 5 mi./8 km 935 ft./285 m M A gentle, moderate walk fi lled with special vistas,
aspens, Ponderosa pines and wildfl owers
OUZEL FALLS Wild Basin 5.4 mi./8.7 km 950 ft./290 m The most popular destination in Wild Basin
showcases a short waterfall that drops dramatically over a small granite cliff .
MILLS LAKE Glacier Gorge 5.6 mi./9 km 700 ft./213 m L Off ers incredible views of Longs Peak and Keyboard of the Winds
THE LOCH Glacier Gorge 6 mi./9.7 km 990 ft./302 m L Follow a well-defi ned trail along a moderate trail to spectacular mountain scenery.
DEER MOUNTAINDeer Mountain at Deer Ridge Junction where
U.S. Hwys. 34 & 36 meet6 mi./9.7 km 1,083 ft./330 m M Moderate trail that leads to the summit
SKY POND Glacier Gorge 9.8 mi./15.6 km 710 ft./521 m L The route to the lake crosses a boulder fi eld at the top before stopping at this special place.
GEM LAKE Lumpy Ridge 3.2 mi./5.1 km 1,000 ft./304 m L Steep hike rewarded with pretty conclusion at spring-fed lake
LAKE HELENE Bear Lake 5.8 mi./9.4 km 1,215 ft./370 m L Traverses subalpine forests and off ers the chance to see wildlife
ESTES CONE Storm Pass at Lily Lake 7.4 mi./11.9 km 2,369 ft./722 m M Excellent view from the summit; strenuous ascent
which trail will you choose?Fortunately, the trails near Estes Park accommodate hikers of all levels; the table below lists some of the most popular treks. The bootprints indicate the level of diffi culty by factoring elevation gain and total length: Easy , Moderate , Challenging and Diffi cult . Choose one that is right for you. Horse-friendly trails are indicated by . Looking for a hike with specifi c scenery? L Lake Hike; M Mountain Hike;
Waterfall Hike. If hiking in the national park, plan ahead from June to October. Also, hike later if the weather forecast looks favorable.
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www.VisitEstesPark.com/trails Find additional trail information at www.fs.usda.gov (Roosevelt National Forest) and www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/hikes.htm or www.pwv.org. Also check out www.VisitEstesPark.com/blog for posts about hiking.
If hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park during warm weather months, consider taking the hiker shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the national park’s Park & Ride lot, as trailhead parking often is minimal.
TRAIL TRAILHEADLOCATION
ROUND-TRIP DISTANCE
ELEVATION GAIN
DIF
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NOTES & HIGHLIGHTS
FERN LAKE Moraine Park 7.6 mi./12.2 km 1,350 ft./106.7 m L Mountain views; waterfalls; strenuous fi nal mile
ODESSA LAKE Fern Lake 8.2 mi./13.2 km 1,215 ft./370 m L Striking alpine scenery. Consider using trekking poles on this hike.
SANDBEACH LAKE Wild Basin 8.4 mi./13.5 km 1,971 ft./600 m L Steep ascent passes pine and aspen to pretty panoramas of Mt. Meeker and the lake
CHASM LAKE Longs Peak 8.5 mi./13.7 km 2,360 ft./719 m L Strenuous hike that passes waterfalls and concludes at the lake surrounded by Longs Peak, Mt. Lady Washington and Mt. Meeker
TIMBERLINE FALLS Glacier Gorge 8.6 mi./6.4 km 1,200 ft./366 m Scenic Loch Vale is enjoyed en route to these delicately beautiful falls on the park’s east side.
BLACK LAKE Glacier Gorge 10 mi./16 km 1,430 ft./436 m L A rugged trail leads deep into a spectacular glacial valley.
ALPINE RIDGE TRAIL Alpine Visitor Center .5 mi./.8 km 209 ft./63 m M Amazing views of the surrounding landscape
TWIN SISTERS Lily Lake 7.4 mi./12 km 2,338 ft./713 m M A fl ood-impaired trail, with some rugged terrain but worthy of magnifi cent views from the top
FLATTOP MOUNTAIN Bear Lake 8.8 mi./14 km 2,849 ft./868 m M Strenuous hike on a well-maintained trail to the top of this 12,324' peak; great views in all directions
LUMPY RIDGE LOOP Lumpy Ridge 11 mi./17.7 km 2,475 ft./754 m M Views of wildfl owers, mountains and wide valleys reward the series of grueling false summits.
BLUEBIRD LAKE Wild Basin 12 mi./20 km 2,478/755.3 m L The lake is located in a large rocky bowl above treeline at the end of the trail that is accessible from March until November.
LAWN LAKE Alluvial Fan 12.4 mi./20 km 2,249 ft./685 m L Access without special gear from May until October; abundant wildfl owers; a long, but satisfying, hike to the park’s largest subalpine lake
UTE TRAIL Upper Beaver Meadows 13 mi./20.9 km 3,025 ft./922 m M Diverse landscape with meadows, forest and tundra. Most hikers use a car shuttle between the starting and ending point.
DOG-FRIENDLY TRAILS P
HOMER ROUSE MEMORIAL TRAIL
Larimer Countyat the start of
Fishcreek Road3 mi./4.8 km 705 ft./214 m M Trail is mostly double-wide, loose material.
LAKE ESTES TRAIL Town of Estes Park 3.8 mi./6.1 km 50 ft./15 m L Trail forms a loop around Lake Estes, providing scenic views and accessibility for running, biking or simply a relaxing walk.
LILY MOUNTAINon CO Highway 7,
about 6 miles south of Estes Park
3.8 mi./6.1 km 1,006 ft./306 m M Challenging hike with scenic views from the summit; inside Roosevelt National Forest
KRUGER ROCK TRAIL Hermit Park ($) 4 mi./6.4 km 900 ft./274 m M Includes a few steep stretches and a rock scramble at the end; fantastic views from the top
POLE HILL off U.S. Highway 36 4.5 mi./7.2 km 1,158 ft./352 m M A point-to-point Roosevelt National Forest hike close to Estes Park; also used for off -roading
JOHNNY PARK ROAD north of Meeker Park 5.5 mi./8.9 km 374 ft./114 m M Point-to-point trail shared by hikers and ATVs; south of Estes Park in Roosevelt National Forest
HOMESTEAD MEADOWS Hermit Park ($) 6.7 mi./10.7 km 600 ft./183 m M Now accessible only through Hermit Park; leads
to homesteads established between 1889 and 1923
PIERSON PARK ROAD Cabin Creek Road 8.1 mi./13 km 2,444 ft./744 m M Out-and-back trail; not a through road due to extensive 2013 fl ood damage
CROSIER MOUNTAIN Garden Gate/Glen Haven 10.2 mi./16.4 km 2,786 ft./849 m M Strenuous hike in Roosevelt National Forest known for wildlife and panoramic views from the summit
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★★★★★
Celebrating 35 years with
original owners
2801 N. Shields St., Fort Collins, CO 80524970.224.3379 • 800.369.4165
A1 WildwaterMild to Wild Rafting
Educational Adventure Toursin Rocky Mountain National Park!
Wildlife Photography Art Classes for Kids History
970.586.3262 | RMConservancy.org
Presents aCHUCKWAGON DINNER
&WESTERN ENTERTAINMENT
Featuring the Singing Wranglers
Fun for theWHOLE FAMILY!
Open Memorial Day–end of SeptemberElk Meadow Lodge 600 Elkhorn Ave. Gates open 5:30
lazybestespark.com970-235-9400
Alpenglow Images & AccentsFeaturing Richard H. Hahn Photography
Gifts • Home Decor • Jewelryalpenglowimages.info | hahndigitalarts.com
145 E. Elkhorn Ave., Park Place Mall | 970-577-6802
From thrilling off-road adventures to gentle scenic tours in Rocky Mountain National Park.TTaakke a RRidde oon thee WWiildd orr Miildd Sidde inn EEsttees ParrkkVoted #1 Tour Company!
Open Year-RoundIn the Dairy Queen Parking Lot212 E. Elkhorn Ave. 970.586.8687www.wildside4X4.com
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NEW VENTURECYCLINGBIKE TOURS
FUN &INFORMATIVE
DOWNHILL RIDES
BIKETOURS
SEE ROCKY BY BICYCLE!www.newventurecycling.com
970-231-2736 Fun for the Whole Family!
Celebrating Over 50 Years!
2 Great Golf Courses
•8 Great
Attractions & Rides
Located east of the Visitor Center on Hwy. 34 below the Lake Estes Dam
970-586-6495www.rideakart.com
Grand Prix Go-Karts • Bumper BoatsCascade Creek Mini Golf (2 18-Hole Mini
Golf Courses) • Extreme Trampoline • Krazy Bumper Kars • Water Wars (water
balloon battles) • Casey’s Silverstreak Railroad • Battings Cages (softball or baseball
at 3 speeds) • Aracde • Munch Kart
WWW.HISTORICPARKTHEATRE.COM970.586.8904 | 130 Moraine Avenue
Historic Park Theatre & CafeOldest operating Movie Th eatre
in the United States—19131st Run Movies, Live Entertainment
and Tours Year-RoundTours 10 a.m daily ’til show time—
$9 adult/$6 child Café 8–4 p.m.—Great Home Cooking!
157 Moraine Ave. | Estes Park
970-577-0034www.GreenJeepTour.com
Best of Estes Tour Company by Trail GazetteBest of the Midwest Travel by Midwest Living
“Gotta Go!”• Guided Waterfall Hiking
• Rocky Mountain National Park• Historic Tours
• Off Road Excursions• Wildlife Viewing
• Craft Beverage Tours
Exhilarating ExplorationWhen you want to rev up your recreation, get behind the wheel of an ATV. Backbone Adventures rents them, so you can tackle the backcountry on your own terms. Want something easy? Check! Just take the sides off a Jeep and drive Old Fall River Road to Trail Ridge Road. Want more daring adventures outside the national park? Backbone can set you up for those, too. Enjoy the thrill!
1851 N. Lake Ave.970-235-5045backbonecycles.com
STAY IN TOUCH WITH ESTES PARK AND STAY IN THE KNOW! Sign up to receive our e-newsletter at www.VisitEstesPark.com.
A Grape ViewSituated downtown, Snowy Peaks Winery handcrafts wine from Colorado-grown grapes. Sip a fl ight on the patio or in the lounge. A kids’ playroom makes a visit fun for the whole family.
292 Moraine Ave. 970-586-2099snowypeakswinery.com
If These Walls Could TalkMore than a century old, the Stanley Hotel has some stories to tell. Hear them on daily, family-friendly ghost or history tours.
333 E. Wonderview Ave. | 970-577-4000stanleyhotel.com/tours
things to try
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Refi ned TastesYou don’t have to be a guest at the StanleyHotel to sip customized Prohibition-stylecocktails, to sample any of nearly 1,000 kindsof whiskey, or to dine on regionally inspiredNew American cuisine. The Whiskey Bar is known for having Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys, bourbons and scotch. Knowledgeable and experienced bartenders can provide guidance by tailoring selections to your preferences and desires. Simply step into the timeless elegance of Cascades Restaurant and the Whiskey Bar.
333 E. Wonderview Ave., 970-577-4000stanleyhotel.com/dining
Elevated FunTake your adventure to new heights at Open Air Adventure Park. The aerial adventure park features 34 challenges hung 10 and 21 feet in the air, giving you options at two different heights to climb on, swing through or maneuver over. From an elevated horse saddle to swinging bridges, there are unique opportunities for just about anyone ready to strap into a harness. Open Air has no set routes or directions, so you get to decide which obstacles you want to navigate and how to tackle them. Go ahead, feel what it’s like to be an Estes Park ninja warrior!
490 Prospect Village Dr. | 970-586-3066 openairadventurepark.com
christmas cheerIN ESTES PARK YOU CAN ENJOY THE YULETIDE SPIRIT ALL YEAR. JUST STEP INTO THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPE OR THE SPRUCE HOUSE, BOTH OPEN YEAR-ROUND, TO PUT YOU IN A HOLIDAY MOOD. SHOP FOR SEASONAL COLLECTIBLES AND DECORATIONS, INCLUD-ING ORNAMENTS MADE BY COLORADO ARTISTS. DON’T MISS THE ESTES PARK CLOISONNÉ BALL ORNAMENT, WHICH MAKES AN EXCELLENT SOUVENIR. BOTH SHOPS OPEN DAILY AT 10 A.M.
The Christmas Shoppe332 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-2882Spruce House125 Spruce Dr. 970-586-8510thechristmasshops.com
Saddle UpExperience the Rockies like a cowboy! CowpokeCorner Corral and National Park GatewayStables offer rides into Rocky MountainNational Park or Roosevelt National Forest where you can enjoy miles of scenic, secluded mountain trails. Choose rides from one to nine hours. Pony rides for little ones.
Cowpoke: CO Highway 66 at Glacier Lodge970-586-5890 | cowpokecornercorral.comGateway: U.S. Highway 34 at Rocky Mountain National Park entrance | 970-586-5269nationalparkgatewaystables.com
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picture perfectWHEN BRIDES AND GROOMS WORK WITH JOE PYLE PHOTOG-RAPHY, THEY LIKEN THE EXPERIENCE TO “WORKING WITH TWO OLD FRIENDS.” JOE AND KARI PYLE EXCEL AT MAKING SHOOTS STRESS-FREE. IN ADDITION, AS YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS OF ESTES PARK, THE HUSBAND-WIFE TEAM KNOWS ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK AND STRIVES TO MAKE EACH PHOTO SHOOT FRESH AND INNOVATIVE BY FOCUSING ON COMPOSITION AND NATURAL LIGHT.joepylephotography.com319-325-3875
more things to try
Nature’s ResortIt’s fun to stay at the YMCA, and YMCA of the Rockies is like no other Y in the world. First, its mountain valley location off ers views of towering peaks in nearly every direction. Second, it features a world-class Craft & Design Center that goes well beyond popsicle sticks. Think glass fusing, basket weaving and silk painting. These creative pursuits complement guided hikes, zip lining and other activities. Finally, this YMCA off ers more than 200 cabins or hotel-style lodge rooms to accommodate guests.ymcarockies.org970-586-3341
Looking GlassYou won’t get a lesson in the art of glassblowing, but you’ll be mesmerized by the process. At Patterson Glassworks Studio & Gallery, watch artisans and apprentices blow and form molten glass into bowls, goblets, platters and decorative art. In fact, the studio is a favorite destination for people visiting—and for those who return year after year. A variety of hand-blown glass, including functional glassware, home décor and art, is for sale at a range of prices at the studio and at fi ne art galleries across the nation.glassworksofestespark.com970-586-8619
SAVE TIME and support your national park! Buy your entrance pass to Rocky Mountain National Park online at www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/fees.htm. The email confi rmation is your pass, which can be downloaded to your phone or printed ahead of time.
SPIRITS!Whisky with a ViewThe smooth off erings at Elkins Distilling Co. prove there’s room in Colorado’s craft beverage market for more than just beer. The whisky goes from grain-to-glass in-house, in small batches, using local ingredients, including organic Colorado corn. After touring Estes Park’s fi rst and only distillery, order a fl ight or a craft cocktail and be sure to sample the latest creations in the Mason jars behind the bar. Hang out on the patio, across from Lake Estes, to enjoy unrivaled views of Longs Peak and Mt. Meeker. elkinswhisky.com970-480-1848
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SCORE!Sassy ShoppingDuck into The Grey House for stylish men’s, women’s and baby’s apparel and accessories, including some that are designed and printed locally. The private label items complement national brands Nixon, TOMS, Raen and Herschel, and the mix changes with the seasons: light, airy fab-rics in summer; cozy, warm ones in winter. Shop this mountain boutique and you’re sure to be the most fashionable (and comfortable!) at the campfi re or in front of the fi replace. thegreyhouse.boutique970-577-7000
Driving ToursBuckle your seat belt for a thrilling and educational excursion with Green Jeep Tours! Choose from sightseeing, historical, off -roading or brewery and craft beverage tours (expanded this year) to gain insider’s knowledge of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding area. Experienced guides share fun facts about the places, wildlife and historical sites you encounter. These year-round tours get you off -the-beaten-path fi guratively—and sometimes literally. greenjeeptour.com970-577-0034
Breakfast BlissIf you’re out early, pull into Cinnamon’s for a treat to take to the national park. Come later, and you’ll likely miss out on the heavenly cinnamon rolls baked fresh here every morning. Choose from classic, raisin, fruit-fi lled, salted caramel or pecan and have it frosted to your liking. Any one (or two!) of them pairs nicely with a cup of tea or Ozo coff ee, roasted in nearby Boulder. Off -the-usual-Elkhorn-path, this bakery draws a line of locals every morning, so you know it’s beloved. 920 W. Elkhorn Ave. 970-480-1501
A BRONZE STATUE of an elk at the intersection of U.S. Highway 36 and Colorado Highway 7 represents Samson, a beloved 7-by-9 trophy elk who lost his life to a poacher. His majestic legacy lives on in the genes he passed on to his many off spring.
NEED A FISHING LICENSE? Purchase one online, by telephone or in person at Estes Park sporting goods shops or select hardware stores.
treatyourselfWHEN YOU ENTER RIVERSPOINTE SPA, YOUR REJUVENATION BEGINS IMMEDIATELY. DON A PLUSH ROBE, LOUNGE IN THE SAUNA AND LEAVE THE REST OF THE WORLD BEHIND. FROM THERE, EXPERT STAFF ESCORT YOU TO A TREATMENT ROOM TO MASSAGE, REFRESH, AND NURTURE YOU. HIKERS FIND SEVERAL PACKAGES GEARED SPECIFICALLY TO THEIR NEEDS: THE HIKER’S DELIGHT FOOT RESCUE AND THE ALTITUDE ADJUSTMENT WRAP. THE FULL-SERVICE SPA IS ALSO A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR BRIDAL PARTIES.riverpointespa.com970-577-6841
PICNICKING
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in town at one of the picnic sites found on the trail that rings Lake Estes. Cherokee Draw on the south side of the lake offers restrooms, a picnic pavilion and a nearby parking area.
Venture into the national park and claim a spot at one of the picnic tables at Endovalley, Sprague Lake, Hollowell Park, Upper Beaver Meadows, Lily Lake, Lawn Lake, Tuxedo Park, Wild Basin or the Longs Peak Ranger Station.
SIGHTSEEING
Grab a pair of binoculars and a camera, and start up Trail Ridge Road. Pull over and get out at scenic stops, such as Hidden Valley, Many Parks Curve and the Alpine Visitor Center to learn more about the land above timberline. Walk on tundra paths and enjoy the view from 12,000 feet.
Soak in the beauty of the Rockies on a loop from Estes Park to casino-centric Central City and Blackhawk (where you can tempt lady luck), to U.S. Highway 6 through Clear Creek Canyon to Golden. Take State Highway 93 north to Boulder. Here, pick up U.S. Highway 36 and follow it back to Estes Park.
Spend a day touring sights from Estes Park to Denver (Union Station, Mile High Stadium, Coors Field, the Molly Brown House), and then to Morrison and Red Rocks Amphitheater (maybe catch a concert). Loop back to Estes Park via Neder-land on state highways 72 and 7, aka the Peak to Peak Highway.
SCENIC DRIVES
Enjoy an easy drive any time of day, but mornings and evenings are spectacular on this route that cruises past the old ranchlands of the Estes Valley, including historic MacGregor Ranch. Don’t miss the view of Twin Owls rock formation while driving Devils Gulch Rd, aka County Highway 43. Follow it toward Crosier Mountain and Glen Haven. Stay on County Highway 43, following the North Fork of the Big Thompson River to Drake. Pick up U.S. Highway 34 and parallel the waterway’s main channel back into Estes Park.
Leave Estes Park on U.S. Highway 36 and head toward Lyons, a funky small town bisected by S. Saint Vrain Creek. Turn south toward Boulder, and then turn west on Lefthand Canyon Dr. Steer along backroads to Jamestown and Raymond. Pick up State Highway 7 and spin through Roosevelt National Forest toward Allenspark and the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. You pass Longs Peak, Mt. Meeker and the Chapel on the Rock at St. Malo on your way back to Estes Park.
AMUSEMENTS
Test your mental mettle as you swing across moving logs and rope bridges slung from heights that give you an eagle-eye view of the surrounding landscape.
Swoosh down giant slides, race go-karts, collide in bumper boats or bumper cars, play miniature golf and reach for the sky on bungee trampolines.
SHOPPING
Hit the highlights of Elkhorn Avenue, stopping into boutiques and sampling a sweet treat.
Explore all the joys of village shopping—from Performance Park on W. Elkhorn Ave. east to the Visitor Center.
Browse downtown, take time for a leisurely lunch, and then drive to more shops on Moraine Avenue and U.S. Highway 34.
PHOTO SAFARI
Click away right in town to capture images of dramatic mountains, the occasional animal and picturesque village scenes.
Let a guide show you how to better use your camera, plus the best spots for capturing your best shots.
BOATING
Launch your own kayak or canoe on a lake in the national park, or rent watercraft from the Lake Estes Marina for a short excursion.
Grab your fi shing gear and pack a picnic and your favorite locally crafted beverage for a half-day on a pontoon boat.
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WINTER ACTIVITIES SPRING ACTIVITIES SUMMER ACTIVITIES FALL ACTIVITIES These are approximate times and may include travel or stops along the way.
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SLEDDING
Bring your own sled or tube to swoosh down the gentle slopes of Hidden Valley, a former ski area, inside the national park. It’s a great family outing, particularly with kids and kids-at-heart who don’t mind taking a break to make a snow angel or build a snowman. If you don’t have a slick ride, no problem. You can rent sleds or tubes for a nominal fee from vendors in town.
LAKE LIFE
Rent a stand up paddleboard (SUP) from the Lake Estes Marina for an incredible core work-out. Up the challenge by practicing SUP yoga.
Explore all that Lake Estes offers. Rent a pedal boat or wade into the cool waters. Cruise the path on a hired surrey pedal cart or cruiser bike.
FLY FISHING (fi shing license required)
Fly fi sh or spin cast Fall River or the Big Thompson from spots right downtown. Local gear shops rent equipment.
Hike with a guide or on your own to alpine fi sh at The Loch, Dream Lake or Ouzel Lake in the national park.
On longer guided trips, serious anglers can backpack, ride a horse or use a pack llama to fi sh remote waters.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Saddle up for easy one- to two-hour rides that meander through green meadows and climb to mountain overlooks.
Brought your own horse? Enjoy designated horse-friendly paths inside Roosevelt National Forest and the national park.
Experience camping like Estes Park’s early visitors when you pack into tucked-away camping spots via horseback.
HIKING
Enjoy the wildfl owers and views on easy, fl at walks at Centennial Open Space at the Knoll-Willows or around Lake Estes or Bear Lake.
Soak in 360-degree views from Kruger Rock in Hermit Park, or feel the spray of Calypso Cascades in the national park.
Get your blood pumping on the Lumpy Ridge Loop that winds around the granite outcropping and offers views of Longs Peak.
ROAD BIKING
Avid road cyclists appreciate the scenic ride along Dry Gulch and Devils Gulch roads, but even amateur riders like careening down Trail Ridge Road on a guided bike ride.
Not for the weak-hearted, the mighty ascent of Trail Ridge Road challenges hard-core cyclists seeking thrilling twists, turns and gorgeous, natural eye-candy.
ALPINE OR BACKCOUNTRY SKIING
Strap on your touring skis and do some back-country turns at Hidden Valley, a former ski resort in the national park.
A one-hour drive brings you to Eldora Mountain Resort for traditional downhill skiing. Lift passes and gear rentals are available in Estes Park.
RAFTING
Get wet and laugh on a half-day fl oat (morning or afternoon) down the Poudre River! Experienced guides help navigate Class II to IV rapids.
Take a full day to tackle rapids on the Poudre River with a guide, or pair a guided drive through the national park with a trip down the Colorado River.
OFF-ROADING & DIRT BIKING
Rent a Jeep, an ATV or dirt bike, or bring your own, for thrills on Pole Hill or at Pierson Park, Johnny Park, IMI or Valley Dirt Riders Track.
Leave the driving to someone else but enjoy all the fun of four-wheel-drive trails on a guided trip into Roosevelt National Forest.
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Make the most of your time in Estes Park by fitting the ideas below into an itinerary perfectly suited to you.
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Four artists share their work and how Estes Park influences their craft
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GREG MILES
|PEOPLE WHO KNOW Greg Miles recognize that he does not live his life in expected ways. He is thoughtful, deliberate and curious—all qualities that he applies to his creative pursuits. He is passionate about culture and sees Estes Park brimming with it.
“It’s not only about visual art,” he says. “It’s about performance art, theater, music, culinary art, distilling and craft brewing—all those things coming together.”
He personally originates music and visual art from his gallery, The Studio Fine Art and Framing. He prefers wa-tercolor, but his approach to it is unorthodox. “I put my
paper at an angle,” he explains. “I use a lot of pigment. And when I paint watercolor at anangle, I get these beautiful fl ows of pigment running down the paper.”
Beauty inspires him daily in Estes Park. “I wake up every morning and think about my list of gratitude, and [one of the fi rst ones] is here. I get to live on vacation all the time.”
MONTE MICHENER
|JUST AS ONE PIECE OF WOOD connects to another to create one of artist Monte Michener’s life-sized driftwood horses, elk busts or other animal sculptures, so have the elements of his life come together. He grew up on a horse farm in Minnesota, where he says, “I spent more time on the back of a horse than I did on foot.” He visited Estes Park when he was 12 years old and swore he would come back. He encountered the driftwood art of Deborah Butterfi eld while in college and thought he’d like to try making it. He became a massage therapist, which gave him an understanding of physical form. Decades later, those experiences came together in Estes Park.
After the fl ood of 2013, “we just had materials every-where,” he says. “I tried to use them as a way to transform the negativity of the fl ood into something positive and creative.” It worked. Locals and visitors alike get joy from his creations, several of which line Big Thompson River beside the Elements of Touch Wellness Spa.
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KAREN MCPHERSON
|USING A BANDING WHEEL and sometimes Grandma’s rolling pin, potter Karen McPherson renders planters, vases and other housewares out of earthenware clay.
She describes her distinc-tive organic designs as “child-like” because of the way she approaches her ideas: she begins by molding a unique piece that then becomes “surfaces to draw on, spaces to defi ne, colors to lay down.” The Rockies inspire her, “spe-cifi cally the passage of time and the weathered surfaces. I have a specifi c affi nity for lichen, the pop of plush color it adds to the grey granite rocks.” She points to how the layers mirror the strata of color in her pieces.
“I fi nd the landscape to be inspiring, and the people that love this environment are able to see it re-interpreted in my forms and surfaces.” Discover her work at www.karenmcphersonclay.com.
NEIL HERMAN & LAURA LAMPE
|FOR 31 YEARS, Neil Herman and Laura Lampe, designers of The Harrington Collection, have made jewelry and lived in Estes Park. They appreciate the quiet, peaceful environment that gives them space to create heirloom-quality rings, pendants, earrings and other pieces out of sterling silver, gold and platinum.
“Just having such a beautiful place to live, work and play 24/7 is amazing,” agree Herman and Lampe. “Being outside, taking hikes and gardening are all inspirational. We believe that being happy where we live and play trans-lates into beautiful, original, often one-of-a-kind designs.”
The team crafts each piece either by hand or by lost wax cast, and almost every one incorporates precious or semi-precious gemstones. One of their popular metal-only pendants features Longs Peak and is available exclusively at Aspen & Evergreen Gallery. Their work is also found at local art fairs and the summer Monday Artisans Market.
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1927–1936The town continued to grow as new businesses opened, including Macdonald Bookshop (still in operation on Elkhorn Avenue today), several hotels and the Dark Horse Tavern. This local favorite, known as the “Nationally Famous / Dark Horse Tavern” because of the sign that hung above the bar, was open from 1933 to 1970. Its trademark horses, once part of a carousel that could not operate due to missing components, were repurposed into bar stools and booth dividers. Some of those horses are still in Estes Park, now coveted antiques in residents’ personal collections.
1917–1926 Although people, including Isabella Bird (1873) and Enos Mills (1884), already had visited or at least knew about Estes Park, the town was not offi cially incorporated until 1917.
At that time and in the years that followed, locals established businesses, such as Sam’l Service General Merchandise (1905), to satisfy their own needs as well as those associated with the droves of visitors coming to see the recently designated Rocky Mountain National Park (1915). Many of them traveled up the new “Fall River Road” which is today’s “Old Fall River Road.”
� ��������������Estes Park celebrates 100 years of incorporation this year. Each decade heralded surprises and changes, some of which are captured in this pictorial retrospective.
They used to come up to Fern Lake Lodge and have weekend ski parties.
—Estes Park native Pieter Hondius,
on his mother’s skiing
i am estes
1937–1946 Franklin Delano Roosevelt approved the Colorado-Big
Thompson Project, which was designed to divert water from the west side of the Continental Divide to the east, initially for agricultural purposes. As a result, Lake Estes and Olympus Dam were built, in addition to 26 other reservoirs, dams and dikes across the Front Range. The project also included the building of the Alva B. Adams Tunnel, through which the water passes. This image shows a “holing through celebration” with workers and visitors entering the tunnel in 1946. The water fl ows out of the tunnel into Marys Lake or southwest of the village.
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1967–1976The fi rst Scottish Festival was held, a festival that just celebrated 40 years in 2016. Meanwhile in Rocky Mountain National Park, renovations were completed as part of the National Park Service’s “Mission 66” to restore national park lands to a more natural and pristine look while also modernizing facilities. In this image, then Rocky Mountain National Park Superintendent Fred J. Novak holds a large pair of scissors, ready to cut the ribbon across Fall River Road, which was included in the improvements.
1947–1956The 1950s heralded a new era of the automobile. Families hit the road in record numbers, which led to the establishment of motor lodges, or motels. Kinnikkinnik was the fi rst to open in Estes Park. Others followed, including the Lazy T Motel (below). These one-story lodging properties enabled visitors to pull up outside their rooms and begin unloading their belongings right from their cars. Many of the properties also featured outdoor pools.
1957–1966 With the rise of automobile
travel, word of the beauty of America’s West spread, and the era of the dude ranch began. People were fascinated with cowboy culture and wanted to experience it themselves. Square dancing (top) became popular. Fall River Lodge held dances, as did the Riverside Complex. There was even a square dance camp in town. At the same time, entrepreneurs recognized the draw to being outdoors, so businesses like National Rent A Bike opened (above), which enabled summer vacationers to explore the area by bicycle, just as many still do today.
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1977–1986The Coors International Bicycle Classic started in 1975 as the Celestial Seasonings’ Red Zinger Bicycle Classic. In time, it became the fourth-largest cycling race in the world and the largest in the United States. This picture at right shows a stage coming down Elkhorn Avenue in 1982, the same year the Lawn Lake dam collapsed, sending fl ood waters slamming into downtown. Ever “mountain strong,” the citizens used the disaster to ignite downtown improvements.
1987–1996 The Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority initiated changes in ordinances and improved the beautifi cation of downtown Estes Park. Parking was moved
behind buildings, fl ower beds were planted, and Performance Park and the Riverwalk (below left) were developed. Public art, including bronze sculptures (below right) were installed. Today, those places off er quiet sanctuaries to walk and sit amid the bustle of the village. The Mountain Man Rendezvous (left) showcased the early days of the West, with tepees, Dutch oven cooking and lots of furs on display.
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2007–TODAY Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park remain as beautiful as ever. Together, they attract millions of visitors each year, who come
for the breathtaking scenery and things to do. The town, of course, has changed a bit. Old buildings were razed and new ones were built in their place. But the landscape around it has not (middle right). Festivals and events, like the Rooftop Rodeo (top right) and Winter Festival (bottom right), keep the area buzzing all year. And when folks need an escape, nature’s beauty—in all seasons, even winter (top)—is right outside the door.
1997–2006Interest in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park continued. In town, Birch Ruins & Cabin at Centennial Open Space at the Knoll-Willows and the Historic Fall River Hydroplant were listed on the State Register of Historic Places. Out of town in the sur-rounding public spaces, visitors found plenty of recreation to keep them busy. Rocky Mountain National Park remained a favor-ite, especially for hiking. The Key Hole climb to Longs Peak (bottom left) requires endurance, fi tness and ropes, but the view is worth every drop of sweat.
DISCOVER MORE HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS that capture Estes Park through the ages at the Estes Park Museum. www.estesparkmuseumfriends.org
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E970-586-3496 • Open 8 a.m.–9 p.m. Summer • Open 7 days/week!
Coupon not valid on RadioShack merchandise.
STANLEY VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER
461 E. WONDERVIEW AVE.
present this ad to receive $5 off $25 purchase.
• Housewares • Fishing/Licenses• Clothing • Board Games• RV Supplies • DVD Rentals• Sporting Goods • Electronics • UPS/FedEx Shipping
MacdonaldBookshop
970.586.3450 • 152 E. Elkhorn • macdonaldbookshop.com
LK
BOOKS OF ALL VARIETIES,
MAGAZINES, MAPS AND
CALENDARSLK
An Independent Store with a Big History Since 1928
The Way Mountain Shopping Should Be!One of the Region’s Largest Gift Shops
Something for Everyone • Lodge & Home FurnishingsOutdoor & Casual Attire • Souvenirs/Gifts/Jewelry/Toys
970-577-0043 | www.rockymountaingateway.comAt the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park
The Way Mountain Shopping Should Be!One of the Region’s Largest Gift Shops
Something for Everyone • Lodge & Home FurnishingsOutdoor & Casual Attire • Souvenirs/Gifts/Jewelry/Toys
970-577-0043 | www.rockymountaingateway.comAt the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain Gateway
liz&jo’s
FEATURING up-and-coming, sustainable, eco-friendly lines including Ginger Snaps, Free People, Mona B, Articles of Society, Miss Me,Bobi and KanCan
Liz & Jo’s is the perfect place to fi nd pieces that suit your adventurous lifestyle.
970 586 4402513 Big Thompson Ave.lizandjos.com
Joseph Ribkoff, Nic & Zoe, Brighton,
JAG, Pendleton, Tribal and Kameleon
whiteorchidinestes.com | 344 E. Elkhorn Ave. | 970.586.9905
Located in the heart of downtown Estes Park, The White Orchid offers beautifully-crafted statement
pieces and accessories in our warm and welcoming boutique. Our personable staff will help you fi nd the perfect
additions to your wardrobe.
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VILLAGE VIRTUES
whatever your vacation needs, Estes park DELIVERS
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I want to...
stay activeThe great outdoors extends in every direction, so there is always some-
thing to do. The Big Thompson River fl ows through downtown, meaning
anglers can wet a line mere steps from local fl y shops. East of the village, the Lake Trail
encircles Lake Estes, giving cyclists, runners, walkers, paddlers and spin casters their
own playground.
I want to...
eat treatsIce cream? Check. Taffy?
Check. Chocolate fudge?
Check. If you have a sweet tooth,
downtown businesses have the goods to
sate your craving. And, really, it’s okay
to indulge. After all, you’re on vacation.
One bite won’t hurt.
I want to...
watch wildlife
Anytime of year, you may catch sight of a
critter—chipmunks scurrying on rocks,
deer munching near trees or maybe a
bear lumbering in a meadow. But fall is
when the elk show off. You usually don’t
have to drive or walk very far to fi nd
one—or many—hanging around.
MOVING TO ESTES PARK WITH THE ELK. —Taylor Rothgeb
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get bragging rightsIn addition to telling stories about cliff camping (spending the night suspended on the face of a sheer rock) or climbing a crazy-tough frozen waterfall, you can share tales about rock climbing a diffi cult route indoors or on a guided climb.
I want to...
share good timesThroughout downtown, places present unique
opportunities to gather with friends and family
on both sides of Elkhorn Avenue. Eat and drink together at
restaurants, bars, cafés and coffee shops, but also laugh and
reminisce during a picnic along the Riverwalk. Or, fi nd a picnic
spot at George Hix Riverside Plaza, Tregent Park or Baldwin
Park. Shop together and stop into galleries to check out the
work of local artists. Attend a performance or fi rst-run movies
at two local theaters, including the historic Park Theatre, the
oldest operating cinema in the West. Learn about area history
at the Estes Park Museum during this centennial year, and
then make your own piece of history in vintage-style costumes
to take old-time photos. Attend a class together. The choices
range from book-making to yoga, and other options in
between. Find out what’s happening by visiting the calendar
of events page at www.VisitEstesPark.com. Finally, treat
yourselves at a local spa or salon for some indulgent “we” time.
THE ESTES PARK AERIAL TRAMWAY climbs to 8,900 feet, which is about 275 feet higher than the elevation of downtown Estes Park.
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Gem Lake is a great place to go with the kids in the winter,
lots of little rocks to climb on and it’s fun
to slide around on the ice of the lake when it is adequately frozen.
—Tommy Caldwell, husband, dad and internationally
acclaimed climber
i am estes
CHOOSE LOCAL Ask for a locally made bottle of wine, cocktail or craft beer to go with your meal. Estes Park boasts a winery, a distillery, a tasting room and three breweries.
I want to...
eat & drinkColorado’s reputation for delicious craft beverages extends to the village’s core. You won’t be
disappointed by the views, brews, wines or craft cocktails served in Estes Park’s tasting rooms or patios. Snap that selfi e as you raise your glass to another great day in the Rockies.
I want to...
connect withnature
Spend time on the Riverwalk listening to the splashing of the
Big Thompson River and feeling the rustle of the wind as it
passes through the aspen trees. Sit in area parks and look
around. Mountains rise from the valley fl oor in every
direction. Nature embraces Estes Park; it is part of what
defi nes the town and is wonderfully inescapable.
I want to...
play in the snowWhen conditions are right,
Estes Park turns into a win-
ter wonderland. March and
April are often the snowiest
months, sometimes with
accumulation of 36 inches
or more. That’s the kind of
snow that turns area parks
into playgrounds dotted
with snowmen, snow angels,
and folks young and not-so
young packing snowballs for
a good old-fashioned fi ght.
Cross-country skiers and
snowshoers take advantage
of deeper snow to enjoy
nature’s winter blanket.
800.443.7837 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM | 43
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i m a g e s o f Rocky Mountain National Park
203 Park Lane, Estes Park, CO 80517
970.586.4352 w w w.Imagesof R MNP.com
A Gallery of Fine Art Photography featuring the work of Erik Stensland
Located in downtown Estes Park, behind Bond Park
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Featuring the Fine Art Photography of James Frank
iShowcasing Images of Rocky Mountain National Park
• More than 60 Local and Colorado Artists• Meet-the-Artists Monthly Gatherings
........................................................................................................................Downtown East End next to Starbucks
970-586-4355 ~ AspenandEvergreen.com
157 WEST ELKHORN AVENUE | WWW.CHURCHSHOPS.COM
A Coffee HouseA Full-Service Restaurant
An Assortment of Cute Little Shops
44 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM
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PDOG-FRIENDLY
TRAILS ON PAGE 23.
I want to...
shopIf you’ve got a penchant for
whimsical, sophisticated or practical, a variety of shops will keep you busy. More than 200 retailers line Elkhorn and Moraine avenues, almost all of them locally owned. Gear shops ensure you’re outfi tted with the right equipment for your outdoor adventure. Gift shops tempt with goodies to take home for yourself and others. Browse the selection to discover unique home décor and sassy clothing in a natural environment that’s more inspiring than any mall.
I want to...
plan a reunionWhen you’re traveling with a large group of family or friends, you need special
arrangements. Thankfully, Estes Park has the means to make getting together easy. Many restaurants, lodging properties and attractions accommodate large groups, ensuring you can spend time with your loved ones pretty much everywhere you go in town.
I DO THIS HIKE USUALLY 3-4 TIMES A WEEK. IT’S A QUICK WALK UP AND GETS MY HEART RATE ELEVATED. —Posted by Estes Park Insider
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RUSTIC was a decorating style that developed in the region between the 1870s and 1930s. See examples of it in village shops, at historic inns and in the national park. )
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Casual, Family Dining | 2nd Dinner Half Off (1 per table)Fresh Game, Seafood, Burger, Pasta | Daily Happy Hour Catering Option Available970.586.2806 WildRoseRestaurant.com
157 W. Elkhorn Avenue (in the Old Church Shops)
The Wild Rose
800.443.7837 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM | 45
DIN
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We enjoy [homemade] ice cream while we watch
the river and explore around riverside plaza. —Brad Rosenbaum, husband, dad and co-owner of Design Center of Estes Park
i am estes
970.235.2628 • thesmirkingfox.com517 Big Thompson Ave., Unit 302 — Across from Safeway-Upper Stanley Village
An Herbal Apothecary & Tea Company
On the way to the Park | 970.586.2702 | 900 Moraine Avenue
The Local Market on Moraine Ave.
Help the nonprofi ts that
enrich, contribute to and protect what you love about the
Estes area.
MtnStrongNonprofi ts.org
46 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM
DIN
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BASE CAMP FOR YUM
CHECK OUT THE FARMERS MARKET. See what’s in season and take home some fresh goodies from the Estes Valley Farmers Market. It is held once a week at Bond Park from June through September. Stop at the Visit Estes Park booth to say “hi” and receive a free gift!d
DUNRAVEN INN
GRUBSTEAK RESTAURANT
Forage for Food in Estes ParkYou’ll be glad you did. Menus in some restaurants promote regional ingredi-ents such as elk, bison or fi sh. You’ll fi nd burgers made with game or gourmet dishes highlighting pecan-encrusted trout. Other restaurants offer traditional American fare, or they favor ethnic fl avors. If you’re in a hurry to catch a performance or need a booth for a family of eight, many eateries can accommodate you. On the other hand, if you prefer quiet conversation over an unhurried, candle-lit dinner, Estes Park has many of those restaurants to choose from, too. Whether you’re a foodie or a family, the eateries here satisfy.
Grubsteak RestaurantSurrounded by memorabilia from Colorado days gone by, the Grubsteak feels like a Rocky Mountain restaurant. Dining here is an immersive experience, from the vintage photographs and wagon wheel on the walls to the dishes featuring bison, elk and yak. During warm weather, ask to sit on the outdoor covered patio. grubsteakestespark.com970-586-8838
Twin Owls SteakhouseTuck into casual fi ne-dining at Twin Owls Steakhouse, where the exposed wood beams and log walls of the restored 1920s homesteading cabin pair with hearty prime rib, elk medallions or a popular hand-cut fi let to create a quintes-sential Colorado Rockies culinary experience. Treat yourself to a special dinner and a relaxing night out.twinowls.net970-586-9344
Dunraven InnYou won’t forget this Italian eatery with its Mona Lisa theme and $1 bills layering its ceiling and walls. For more than 40 years, the Dunraven Inn has been dishing up a fun, memorable atmosphere, hearty pastas and perfect steaks. The food is aff ordable, and it’s the kind of place you can stop by after a day on the trail without feeling underdressed. dunraveninn.com970-586-6409
GRAB A BITE TO EAT
TWIN OWLS STEAKHOUSE
Opp
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Tilly
800.443.7837 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM | 47
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1560 Big Thompson Ave. • 970.586-7705
Enjoy live music here!Great Views
2 patios
Daily Happy Hour4:30–6:30
Daily SpecialsMargarita Monday
Taco Tuesday Fajita Friday
Serving Food Late970 586 6624 mountainhomecafe.com
457 E. Wonderview Ave.
Open daily at 7 am Lunch at 11 am
Breakfast All Day Catering Available
Kids Menu Carry Out
Fresh Indian and Nepalese Cuisine
Local Draft BeerLocals’ Favorite Menu
Lunch Special Dinner Special $8.95 $10.95
101 W. Elkhorn Ave.970.586.6226
HIM L Y NCURRY & KEBOB
Cuisine of Nepal & India
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • Private Rooms for Meetings • Rehearsal Dinners • Catering Available • Plenty of Parking
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR DAILY SPECIALS.
970-586-2792 • www.EstesParkBigHorn.com401 West Elkhorn Avenue
Big Horn Restaurant
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DIN
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Specialties: • Sizzling Fajitas • Dinner Combinations • Choice of Chicken, Steak, Shrimp or any Combination • Large Stuffed Burritos • Enchiladas • Seafood Platters •
Hamburgers & Fries • Children & Senior Menu • Full Bar Menu
220 E. Elkhorn Ave. • 970.577.0799www.CasaGrandeMexicana.com
Open 11 a.m. • Serving Lunch & Dinner
Featuring a complete selection of traditional Mexican dishes at
affordable pricesRelax in our streamside patio (summer) and enjoy our “Best Margarita in Town.”
www.estesdining.comAcross from the Library in Barlow Plaza
Open daily at 11 a.m.
970 586 3330
pizza
970 586 8282 Family Dining
Pizza, Sandwiches,Salad Bar
Seasonal PatioExtensive Beer List
Italian Dining Seasonal Patio
Extensive Wine List
Lunch daily from 12-3. Dinner from 4 p.m.
ramboslonghornliquor.com
COME EXPLORE, TASTE, AND DISCOVER A NEW FAVORITE BEVERAGE
family-owned &operated since 19751640 Big Thompson Ave.
970.586.8583
RAMBO’SLonghorn Liquor
970-586-4326Coffees, Espressos, Lattes,
Cappuccinos, Specialty Teas and Locally Baked
Pastries in a Comfortable Setting
157 W. ELKHORN AVE. - UPSTAIRS IN THE OLD CHURCH SHOPS
800.443.7837 | WWW.VISITESTESPARK.COM | 49
DIN
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oppa ASIAN BISTRO
181 W. RIVERSIDE DR. 970.577.8888SHARING THE ESTES PARK POST OFFICE PARKING LOT
Best Views in Estes ParkReservations Suggested. Open Year-Round
300 Riverside Dr. | 970.586.1087 | theviewestes.com
Casual Fine Dining
Large Parties Welcome • Grab a Meal to GoGluten-Free Options • Wine, Beer & Cocktails Available
Open-Air Deck with Mountain ViewsOpen Year Round. Summers 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; limited winter hours
Family Dining in a Mountain Lodge Atmosphere970-577-0043 | www.trailheadrestaurant.com
At the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park
Trailhead RestaurantLarge Parties Welcome • Grab a Meal to Go
Gluten-Free Options • Wine, Beer & Cocktails AvailableOpen-Air Deck with Mountain Views
Open Year Round. Summers 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; limited winter hoursFamily Dining in a Mountain Lodge Atmosphere
970-577-0043 | www.trailheadrestaurant.comAt the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park
SteakhouseRestaurant & Lounge
on the River
It’s Cattlemen’s Steakhouse Restaurant & Lounge for Casual Dining on the River
Serving Nicky’s original Prime Rib and chops for 50 years!Open for Lunch & Dinner, Breakfast SeasonalSuperb Steaks, Chops, Fresh Seafood
and Northern Italian, plus Nicky’s OriginalPrime Rib Roasted in Rock Salt
Call for Seasonal Hours | www.nickysestespark.com
970 586-5376970 586-2123
1-866-4-NICKYS (642597)1350 Hwy. 34 West
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AN AWESOMEWONDER
Take a peek at the natural beauty and activities that come with a trip to one of America’s most visited national parks.
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Courtesy of Images of Rocky Mountain National Park/Erik Stensland
= TIP: Because of the park’s increasing popularity, reserve your campsite well in advance at www.recreation.gov. Also, be advised that some of the easier trails get a lot of foot traffi c, thus limiting parking at the trailheads. To avoid parking congestion, take advantage of the national park’s shuttles.
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RANGER-LED PROGRAMSThroughout the year, national park rangers host programs for children and adults. Theactivities range from lectures about bighorn sheep to guided outings, such as snowshoeing.Rangers lead wildfl ower hikes or night-sky activities. They tell stories of the national park’s history. These free programs, most of which are open to youngsters, complement the Junior Ranger Program, which is decidedly for kids. While earning their free Junior Ranger badges, children discover the wonders of the natural world and learn why preservation and conservation are important.
TIP: Check the national park’s biannual newspaper for details about ranger-led programs, or ask about them at one of the national park’s visitor centers.
THE SECRET IS OUT: Rocky Mountain National Park, the third most-
visited national park in the country, is one worth visiting. Its convenient access from Denver paired with its sheer scenic majesty, recreational pursuits, top-of-the world drive and prolifi c wildlife are making it as familiar to travelers of America’s west as Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. Colorado’s favorite national park is open for adventures year-round, and many visitors fi nd it as beautiful at night as they do during the day. See for yourself how the clear evening sky sparkles by staying overnight at a campground or by returning after dinner for a little stargazing.
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RMNP
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RECREATEBy day, the national park bustles with activity. You can backpack, ride horses, fi sh, snowshoe, cycle, mountaineer, rock climb, backcountry ski, ice climb, cross-country ski and, of course, hike. With more than 350 miles of trails, covering all kinds of terrain and diffi culty, the national park is a hiker’s paradise. Family-friendly trails loop around lakes or lead to waterfalls. A variety of wilder-ness hikes can take you to soaring mountain summits and pristine alpine lakes. Popular Longs Peak, the national park’s highest peak at 14,259 feet, is a climb, not a hike. The route is usually not snow-free until mid-summer, and it is long and arduous, requiring preparation and planning. When the snow falls, some trails host snowshoers and Nordic skiers. Even the closed portions of Trail Ridge Road become a hotbed for fans of the skinny skis. Other favorite spots include Sprague Lake, Hidden Valley and Wild Basin.
TIP: Have a fourth-grader? Great! Your student is eligible for the federal Every Kid in a Park program that provides fourth-graders (and other kids in the family under age 16, plus three adults) free access to the nation’s national parks and federal lands. Visit www.EveryKidinaPark.gov to print the pass and get more information. Also, be sure to stop by the Estes Park Visitor Center where fourth-graders can present their passes to pick up free Estes Park backpacks fi lled with goodies.
TRAIL RIDGE ROADFrom Memorial Day through mid-October, the alpine tundra is accessible to visitors traveling the breathtaking, high-elevation National Scenic Byway from Estes Park on the east to Grand Lake on the west. Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved highway in North America, climbing to 12,183 feet. Inside the national park, it covers 48 miles, slicing through multiple ecosystems, including the treeless landscape defi ned by brilliant wildfl owers, harsh winds and cold temperatures. Take your time, pulling over at interpretive signs to learn more about the national park and the road. In winter, its higher sections are closed, but drivers can take in gorgeous views of the park from the overlook near the closing point.
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TIP: Cyclists love the challenge of Trail Ridge Road, with its curves, ascents and descents. Watch for them on the road or be one. Even novices can take the guided tour that, thankfully, only descends this legendary road.
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WILDLIFE WATCHINGWinter is an especially good time for spying elk, mule deer and other critters. Their tawny hides stand out against the snowscape or their tracks give them away. Look for them in open meadows. While wintering elk may occasionally do more than paw the snow in search of a nibble, autumn is when they really show off . Visit in September and October to view—and hear—their mating antics. During the elk rut, the bulls’ bugles shatter the quiet, and their battles, in which they spar and clash their antlers, delight onlookers.
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FAQS ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARKWHERE CAN I SEE WILDLIFE IN THE NATIONAL PARK? Honestly, all over. More than 60 mammal and 270 bird species inhabit the park. Elk, popular with visitors, often forage in meadows and near forest edges during summer. See page 14 for more wildlife-related tips.
CAN I HIKE IN THE NATIONAL PARK WITH MY DOG? No. Pets are not permitted on any trails within the national park, but leashed dogs are allowed inside its parking lots, campgrounds, picnic areas
and along roadside pullouts. Be respectful (and legal), and clean up after your pet. Dog-friendly trails are avail-able around Estes Park and in Roosevelt National Forest. See page 23 for options.
HOW CAN I STAY SAFE WHILE IN THE NATIONAL PARK? Be prepared: Weather can change quickly. Carry plenty of water and snacks. Wear sunscreen. Pack a fl ashlight, extra clothing, matches and a fi rst aid kit. Travel with a buddy and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Cell phones can be helpful, but many trails and mountain roads may be out of range.
If you need assistance, keep dialing or texting 911 from different spots, especially high points. Always check the weather and know your route well before heading out. Pick a trail or activity that is well-matched to your abilities—rangers or outfi tters can offer recommendations.
WHAT IS THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE? North America’s highest points, the Continen-tal Divide separates waters fl owing west to the Pacifi c Ocean from those fl owing east to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
ARE DRONES ALLOWED IN THE NATIONAL PARK? No, it is a desginated no-fl y zone.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK: OPEN 24/7, 365 DAYS A YEARVisitor centers post diff erent hours. Beaver Meadows Visitor Center: Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. On U.S. Highway 36, west of town. Fall River Visitor Center: Hours vary. On U.S. Highway 34, fi ve miles west of Estes Park. Alpine Visitor Center: Open Memorial Day through mid-October, weather permitting. On Trail Ridge Road near the Continental Divide. Moraine Park Discovery Center: Hours vary. Check park website. On Bear Lake Road. www.nps.gov/romo
TIP: During summer months and weekends all year, trailhead lots and parking areas can fi ll before 8 a.m., so plan your outing accordingly. The park’s busiest times are between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Use the national park’s shuttles to avoid parking congestion.
TIP: Unless you’re simply driving through the national park, leave your pets, including dogs, at your accommodations or with an animal caregiver in town. Leashed dogs are allowed only along roadsides and in parking lots, established campgrounds and picnic areas. See page 23 for a list of dog-friendly trails outside of the national park.
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Head to Roosevelt National Forest for more
recreational opportunities.
BUILD A CAMPFIREPack your marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate! Campfi res are allowed in the national forest, assuming you are outside of designated wilderness areas and temporary fi re bans are not in eff ect. (Check for burn restrictions before heading out.) Build campfi res outside of wilderness areas only, and attend them at all times. Purchase local fi rewood or collect dead, downed wood; do not break branches from standing trees. Be sure any fi re remains are out and cold to the touch before leaving.
DOWNLOAD THE AVENZA APP “PDF MAPS”
FOR IPHONE OR ANDROID DEVICES TO KEEP TRACK OF
WHERE YOU ARE IN THE NATIONAL
FOREST. IT WORKS EVEN IF YOU LOSE
CELL SERVICE.
ACCESS VARIOUS PARTS OF ROOSEVELT
NATIONAL FOREST FROM HIGHWAYS 36, 34 AND 7.
MOUNTAIN BIKINGFans of the fat tire fi nd plenty of rock-jumping excitement on national forest trails. Pole Hill and Pierson Park see a lot of action.
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CHECK www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/arp/recreation FOR TRAIL AND ROAD CLOSURES AS MAINTENANCE SOMETIMES REQUIRES THEM TO CLOSE TEMPORARILY. ALSO, ROUTES MAY BE CLOSED TO MOTOR VEHICLES BUT ARE STILL OPEN FOR MOUNTAIN BIKING OR HIKING.
HIKE WITH YOUR DOGTrails in the national forest are dog-friendly. To see popular routes, visit page 23. Be sure to obey leash laws as required in some places.
SNOWMOBILEIf the snow is deep enough, you may take your own sled or ones you rent from town on designated closed roadways and spaces. If conditions warrant, go dirt biking instead.
TIP: Buy a map of Roosevelt National Forest at the Estes Park Visitor Center. Or download a free motor vehicle use map at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/mvum. Because the national forest encompasses a variety of lands, it is important to know where you are.
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FORESTS ARE THE LUNGS OF OUR LAND, PURIFyING THE AIR AnD GIVING FRESH STRENGTH TO OUR PEOPLE. —Franklin Delano Roosevelt
TIP: Make sure you register your dirt bike or ATV with Colorado State Parks before you hit the trail. Do it online at https://ivrs.parks.state.co.us.
DISPERSED
CAMPGROUND
TIPPLAN AHEAD. IN SUMMER,
CAMPGROUNDS AND PARKING LOTS FILL UP;
YOU MAY RESERVE YOUR CAMPING SPOT UP TO
180 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF YOUR ARRIVAL DATE.
CAMPINGCamp in the national forest at a traditional campground or outside of one. Known as dispersed camping, this form is good for backpackers and those seeking a primitive experience. Practice “Leave No Trace” ethics.
GO OFF-ROADEnjoy multi-use trails that allow ATVs, dirt bikes and four-wheel-drive vehicles. If you do not own an off -road vehicle, rent one, or hire an outfi tter to take you. Some trails are only open seasonally.
HORSEBACK RIDINGRide your horse through varied terrain on numerous horse-friendly trails (see pages 22–23). Ranger district offi ces can help you identify stock-friendly campgrounds and trailer parking.
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75 vendorsThe Estes Park Wedding Association organizes the
Bridal Expo each February. About 75 area vendors,
including fl orists, photog-raphers and others come
together to show brides and grooms all the ways to make their wedding memorable.
100 guestsRocky Mountain National
Park’s sites accommo-date 2 to 100 people. The
maximum number includes everyone attending the ceremony, including the wedding party, offi ciants
and photographers. Special permits are required.
$30Purchase a
marriage license from any
Colorado Clerk and Recorder’s Offi ce, including
the one in Estes Park on
Brodie Avenue.
1Start planning your wedding in Estes
Park with one call to 970-586-0500. A groups and events
expert will get you in touch with places to stay, to dine and to
tie the knot.
If you’ve always dreamt of an outdoor wedding or celebrating your love within a warm lodge, look no further than Estes Park. With mountains in every direction, the backdrop is stunning in all seasons. Dozens of sites are available, even in Rocky Mountain National Park. Choose lakeside, streamside or mountainside—wherever feels most romantic to you. Or, if you prefer to say “I do” in a church or the perfect mountain venue, Estes Park has a wide variety of lodges, event spaces, church denominations and more. Find your fi nishing touches in the village, where fl orists, caterers, musicians, bakers, seamstresses, DJs, offi ciants and others are available to make your celebration as unforgettable as the surroundings.
������������Choose Estes Park for a destination wedding where mountain majesty reigns.
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PHOTO OPPORTUNITY It’s hard to take a bad picture when the surrounding scenery looks like a postcard in every direction.
THE PERFECT SPOTMarry your one-and-only by a river, among the trees or below towering mountains. Choose from this selection of ceremony sites in Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park.
OUTSIDE THE NATIONAL PARK
Centennial Open Space at The Knoll-WillowsStunning views overlooking Lake Estes and downtown, good for small groupsMore info: 970-586-6526, www.estes.org/museum
Picnic Pavillion at Lake Estes MarinaNear the shores of Lake Estes, accommodates up to 120 peopleMore info: 970-586-8191, www.evrpd.com Cherokee Draw Picnic PavilionNear the shores of Lake Estes, accommodates up to 54 peopleMore info: 970-586-8191, www.evrpd.com
Stanley ParkTwo pavilions within view of ball fi elds, tennis courts and ball courts; accommodates up to 40, 150, or 190 (both sites) More info: 970-586-8191, www.evrpd.com
The Meadows at O’Connor Pavilion on Fall River360-degree mountain views, multiple ceremony sites available to accommodate various group sizesMore info: 970-481-1453, www.oconnorpavilion.com
Hermit Park Open Space Group PavilionMeadow and mountain views, accommodates up to 175 peopleMore info: 800-397-7795, www.larimercamping.com
INSIDE THE NATIONAL PARKA permit is required to wed in Rocky Mountain National Park.
3M CurveLarge rock outcrop overlooks mountains, meadows and moraines
Alluvial Fan BridgeWooden foot bridge that overlooks boulder-strewn river
Bear Lake Nature TrailMountain views; winter only
Copeland LakeMountain and lake views
Hidden ValleyTree views and summer wild-fl owers; disabled access
Lily Lake Southside Picnic AreaOverlooks lake and aspen grove; disabled access
Lily Lake DockMountain and lake views; disabled access
Moraine Park Visitor Center AmphitheaterViews of Moraine Park and Longs Peak
Sprague LakeMountain and lake views; disabled access
Upper Beaver MeadowsViews of the Continental Divide and open meadows
More info: 970-586-1209; www.nps.gov/romo/plan yourvisit/wedding_locations
www.TwinOwls.net • 970-586-9344Dinner starting at 5 pm. Reservations suggested. Wedding Packages Available.
Casual fi ne dining in the rustic ambiance of a 1920’s log homestead.
Available in All Units | �Available in Some Units | *RMNP= Rocky Mountain National Park
FEATURED MEETING FACILITIES
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800 MORAINE AVENUE EVENTS CENTER800-794-7857, 970-577-0202 | 800 Moraine Ave. | www.trouthavenresorts.comCaterer’s kitchen, prep counters, bar area and more.
45 3 120 � � � � � 71
ESTES PARK CONDOS (Antlers Pointe, Bugle Pointe & Creekside)800-349-1003, 970-577-0068 | 1400 David Dr. | www.EstesParkCondos.comOn river with mountain views! Upscale and private. Group coordination/catering provided.
70 1 200 � � � � � � 6170
THE ESTES PARK RESORT855-377-3778, 970-577-6400 | 1700 Big Thompson Ave. | www.theestesparkresort.comIntimate mezzanine, boardroom, hospitality suite and full grand ballroom.
54 4 225 � � � � � � IFC
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARK INN844-744-5527, 970-586-2332 | 101 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.RockyMountainParkInn.comAdjoined to Estes Park Conference Center. Newly remodeled pool, guest rooms and restaurant.
150 6 1000 � � � � � � � 68
THE STANLEY HOTEL800-976-1377, 970-577-4265 | 333 E. Wonderview Ave. | www.stanleyhotel.comHistoric meeting rooms with views. Full-service meeting facilities. Variety of menus available.
200 8 300 � � � � � � � 1559
TWIN OWLS STEAKHOUSE970-586-9344 | 800 MacGregor Ave. | www.twinowls.netOff ering unforgettable events in a rustic, historic mountain lodge. Reception and rehearsal dinner packages.
185 � � � 59
YMCA OF THE ROCKIES—ESTES PARK CENTER970-586-3341 | 2515 Tunnel Rd. | www.ymcarockies.orgAll-inclusive packages. Borders RMNP.* Activities on grounds.
553 60 2200 � � � � � � � 575
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TAKE YOUR BEST SHOTS of your family (or other wild animals) at dawn and dusk when the natural lighting is magical. High-noon and other daytime shots when the sun is bright often create unsightly shadows or “hot spots.”
CONNECTTo start planning your
group getaway, log onto www.VisitEstesPark.com, and then click one of the
Meetings, Reunions & Groups, or Weddings
tabs to fi nd helpful ideas and resources.
���� !"�#$%&�'''Estes Park hosts meetings, group gatherings and family reunions with warmth, hospitality and competence.
What makes a successful group getaway? Well, it starts with the destination. Estes Park offers an escape to mountain serenity, where creative thoughts fl ourish and good times unfold. Here, the lines blur between business trip and vacation. Generations of families create memories, and friends and peers bond.
Group-planning expertise matters, too. For decades, groups have been coming to Estes Park, thus taking care of them is at the core of the community’s character. Specifi cally, travel-planning experts at Visit Estes Park help match groups to venues and experiences for free.
BUSINESS PLANSSkip Denver, avoid mountain passes and within 90 minutes your corporate team can take a breath and start innovating. Come for a morning meeting or a multi-day strategy session. Either way, take advantage of state-of-the-art conference and meeting amenities to make your event planning easy and trouble-free.
REUNION DETAILSForget searching the internet for properties to accommodate your extended family. Instead, contact the Visit Estes Park travel-planning professionals who can refer you to vendors and help you obtain proposals
from them. Discuss dining options, activities for toddlers to seniors and where to fi nd the perfect gift.
RETREAT ARRANGEMENTSBuild trust and camaraderie with your church group, military comrades or other peers during team-building activities or other outings when you enjoy a retreat together.
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A corporate retreat at Estes Park Condos is the perfect setting for you and your colleagues to engage in team building,
strategic business planning, and creative thinking.CONFERENCE CENTER—UP TO 60 & UPSCALE EVENT TENT—UP TO 200
PROFESSIONAL GROUP COORDINATION INCLUDED WITH ALL EVENTS!
1400 David Drive | 970.577.0068 | 800.349.1003 www.EstesParkCondos.com1 Mile to RMNP. 3 Miles to Downtown
This site is available for: Corporate Meetings Parties • RetreatsRehearsal Dinners Ceremonies Receptions
• 4 luxury condos• Fully equipped kitchens• Patios/decks with grills• Commons Area• Open all year
303-772-7884 • 303-204-7880 • 1439 S. Saint Vrain Ave.www.bobcatridgecondos.com • [email protected]
Reunions | Family VacationRetreats | Romantic Getaway
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�(�)�!)*���&+Planning for a group getaway can be daunting—except in Estes Park, where travel planning experts at Visit Estes Park off er complimentary guidance and ideas for making your meeting, reunion or retreat a success. Here are some things to think about.
1 Accessing Estes Park from DIA, Union Station and Denver is easy. Rent a car or use taxis and shuttles to get you here in about 90 minutes.
2 Once here, get around the village and into the national park via free shuttles, a trolley or paid transportation. Bicycles, your own or rented in town, are a good option, too.
3 If you’re planning a gathering for 25 or more people, there are lodging properties and restaurants that can accommodate your entire party in one location. Ask the Visit Estes Park travel-planning experts for a list of both.
4 A variety of activities enables youngsters and seniors to stick to their usual routines or try something new. Swim in the indoor public pool at the Aquatic Center or take daily walks on easy paved paths. For something more adrenaline-inducing, purchase day passes to area attractions. Try ropes courses, rock climbing, go-karting and more. There are so many things for multiple generations to do at the same time, much of which can be planned in advance to ensure everyone’s wish list is met.
5 Beautiful Locations
120 Units to Choose
From
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RESORTS800.479.9749 | www.RockyMtnResorts.com
RETREATFAMILY REUNIONS
BUSINESS OR SOCIALFive beautiful resorts to meet your
needs and dreams—budget to luxury.
Coordinator available for weddings and family reunions.
800.479.9749 | www.RockyMtnResorts.com
LODGES & INNS: Think wood beams, stone fi replaces and vast views. Many area lodges and inns refl ect a vintage Rocky Mountain aesthetic that’s hard to resist. Some offer an adults-only commu-nity; others invite you to fi sh with your favorite youngster.
ZzzzzzzzzzzzTHERE IS JUST SOMETHING ABOUT FRESH MOUNTAIN AIR THAT MAKES FOR SOUND SLEEP.
Thankfully, Estes Park offers it by the lung-full. Enjoy a busy day out and about, then retreat to your favorite kind of accommodations to dive under the covers and start snoozing. Choose from hotels and motels, cabins and cottages, lodges and inns, vacation homes and condos, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds. The variety ensures you’ll fi nd your ideal spot. Ask about bringing your four-legged companion!
HOTELS & MOTELS: When amenities are important, then a hotel or motel may be your perfect accommoda-tion. Choose from historic properties, familiar chains or boutique stays. Some are near downtown; others are nestled near the border of Rocky Mountain National Park.
BASE CAMP FOR
NEED HELP? The Estes Park Visitor Center’s staff and ambassadors will help you fi nd available lodging that matches your specifi c vacation needs, such as pet-friendly, kitchens or fi replaces.
CABINS & COTTAGES: Reserve a cabin in the woods or by a river for a private getaway. Options for a secluded stay include everything from rustic and primitive to luxurious and well-appointed. In some cases, you can fi sh right out-side your door, pick up a trail for hiking or snowshoeing, or enjoy a close-up view of Rocky Mountain National Park.
VACATION HOMES & CONDOS: Planning a reunion where autonomy and affordability are priorities? Need a kitchen to make your own meals? Or need a long-term stay? Then consider a vacation home or condo. They range in size, price and location. Plus, some offer amenities, such as onsite spa services, laundry facilities or easy access to golf.
BED-AND-BREAKFASTS: Feel like you’re visiting old friends at bed-and-breakfasts, where hospitable hosts welcome you with hot
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JUST SPENT A GLORIOUS WEEK IN ESTES. IT’S ONE OF OUR MOST FAVORITE PLACES IN THE WORLD. —Tina M.P.
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CAMPGROUNDS: Sleep under the stars and listen to nature’s night sounds through the open windows of your RV or tent. Area campgrounds—in locations near downtown
or near Rocky Mountain National Park—provide amenities, such as hook-ups, hot showers, stocked fi shing ponds, outdoor and indoor games, and more.
TRAVELING WITH HORSES?Given Estes Park’s proximity to amazing horse-friendly trails, some visitors travel with their trusty steeds. Elkhorn Stables is the only spot in the area to off er year-round, daily boarding for guest horses. Pricing depends on whether you provide hay and whether you choose a stall or an outdoor corral. Discounts are available for multiple animals, and you may leave your trailer on the property.
1900 FALL RIVER ROAD - ESTES PARK, CO 80517 - WWW.BOULDERBROOK.COM - 800.238.0910
Luxurious Spa Suites One Bedroom Suites
Two Bedroom Suite In-Room Jetted Tubs
Private Riverfront Decks Riverside Hot Tub
Fully Equipped KitchensFireplace
BOULDER BROOK IS ONE OF THOSE SPECIAL PLACES THAT YOU NEVER WANT TO LEAVE.Tucked below towering pine trees with the rocky Fall River cascading in frontof your suite, it’s easy to forget the world you left behind.
Ideally located between downtown Estes Park & Rocky Mountain NationalPark. Relax in riverfront luxury...
The Perfect Escape...The Perfect Escape...
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morning meals and insiders’ tips. Their local knowledge enhances your enjoyment of the area, as do their pampering touches that personalize your stay.
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JUST FEET AWAY FROM FALL RIVERGas Fireplaces, 2-Person Jacuzzi Tubs, Fully Equipped Kitchens, King-size Beds, Barbecue Grills, HDTV, Wi-Fi
........................................................................................................................888.234.9117 | 2120 Fall River Rd. | www.riverstoneresorts.net
Th e Perfect Place to Relax & Regenerate
Newly Renovated Guest Rooms — 3 Minutes to Rocky Mountain National Park
All Nonsmoking — Free, Fast, Reliable Wi-Fi — Outdoor Heated Pool & Hot Tub – Fire Pit
Balcony Rooms – Restaurant on Property — Open Year Round
970.586.4585 | 927 Moraine Ave. | www.alpinetrailridgeinn.com
A Family Resort on the
Big Thompson River
• Tastefully Decorated Riverfront and Poolside Cabins • Air-Conditioned Motel • Vacation Home • Romantic
Getaway Cabin • Private Hot Tubs • Trout Fishing
• Outdoor pool• Outdoor hot tub• Cable TV• Kitchens/ Kitchenettes • 1.25 mi. to RMNP• 1.25 mi. to downtown• Free Wi-Fi• All nonsmoking• Sorry, no pets• Military or senior discount• Open all year
800.279.4488970.586.3475brynwood.com
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6 spots to sleep tightGET YOUR BEAUTY REST AND LINGER A LITTLE LONGER UNDER THE COVERS AT THESE SIX GREAT PROPERTIES. EACH ONE
OFFERS SOMETHING UNIQUE, WHETHER IT’S A ROMANTIC SETTING, AMAZING VIEWS, EXCELLENT VALUE (OR MAYBE ALL THREE!).
1 With only 14 suites, each with its own balcony and hot tub, DELLA TERRA MOUNTAIN
CHATEAU promises a getaway fi lled with romance. It seals the deal with a private massage therapy room, an on-site movie theater and intimate Loft Bar, ensuring pampered moments for you and your lover. 970-586-2501, www.dellaterramountainchateau.com
2 Escape to what feels like your very own mountain home! The new luxury river-
front condos and townhomes at FALL RIVER VILLAGE allow you to cook in your own fully equipped kitchen, fi sh along a private section of Fall River, and walk fi ve minutes to village shops. 970-325-6864, www.fallrivervillage.com
5 SOLITUDE CABINS, is not just a name, but a feeling. When you step into these fully
furnished, stand-alone, private cottages, you feel calm and totally at home. They are located in a quiet neighborhood, across from a paved trail that leads around Lake Estes or 2.5 miles into downtown. 970-577-7777, solitudecabins.com
6 A bed-and-breakfast like no other, TAHARAA MOUNTAIN LODGE presents guests with
gorgeous views of the Estes Valley. It is ideal for vacationers seeking attentive service and care, notably in made-to-order breakfasts, hiking (and other) tips, and staff and owners who greet you by name. 970-577-0098, www.taharaa.com
3 Recently renovated, THE LANDING brings casual luxury to the doorstep of
Rocky Mountain National Park. Cabins and suites, featuring hand-crafted furnishings and upscale touches, nestle on the banks of the Big Thompson River. A new way to stay in Estes Park! 970-820-0118, www.thelandingestespark.com
4 Now QUALITY INN, this hotel maintains its 44-year legacy as a family-owned-and-
operated property with a caring staff committed to clean rooms, hot breakfast and excellent value. The hotel was remodeled late last year to include two-bedroom accommo-dations and family loft units with gas-log fi replaces. 970-586-2358, www.qualityinnestespark.com
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• 1- & 2-Bedroom Riverfront Suites
• In-room Spa Suites • Gas Fireplaces
• Kitchens & Kitchenettes
• Private Decks • Free Netfl ix
• In-room Wireless Internet
• LCD Flatscreen TVs with
Wireless Blu-Ray DVD
• Special Occasion &
Small Wedding Packages Available
www.aspenwinds.com
800-399-6010 | 970-586-60101051 Fall River Court • Estes Park, CO 80517
Come Enjoy a Bit of Heaven…
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800-689-8302 • 970-586-3664 • 1520 Fall River Road, 80517www.CastleMountainLodge.com • [email protected]
Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2010–2016 | RCI Gold Crown Resort 25 Consecutive Years
L U X U R Y V A C AT I O N C A B I N S
Located at the Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park • Mountain Views & Wildlife Viewing • Full Kitchens Gas Fireplaces • Heated Outdoor Pool • Hot Tubs • Fitness Center & Playground • Free High Speed Wi-Fi
Ownership Opportunities
Luxury Vacation Home Ownership at aFraction of the Cost! — 800.229.4598
Vacation Rentals1565 CO Hwy. 66 | 800.229.4676
www.rhvresort.com
You can' t bring home with you...so stay at home with Aspen Brook
3 to 6 bedroom homes, Full Kitchens, Dining Areas, Wi-Fi, Washer & Dryers, Some with Hot Tubs or Whirlpools, Playground, Picnic Campfi re Areas
www.aspenbrook.com | 970.586.3748
Luxurious Vacation Homes for
All Seasons
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARK INN
RockyMountainParkInn.com844.744.5527 ���101 S. Saint Vrain Ave.
Large Heated Indoor Pool and Hot TubFitness Center ����Game Room
Pets Welcome ���Open Year-RoundConference Center � Restaurant & Bar
Minutes from Downtown Shopping & Dining
NEWLY RENOVATEDRe-Opening May 2017
Open All Year!
• 1- & 2-bedroom cabins • Private decks • Spa tubs for couples • Fireplaces • Kitchens
• Outdoor hot tub • FREE Wi-Fi • Fishing • Nonsmoking • No Pets
888-686-3393 | 970-577-97861500 Fish Hatchery Rd. — [email protected]
www.evergreensonfallriver.com
O N F A L L R I V E RTHE EVERGREENS
Luxury Riverfront Cabins on Fall River
5 Beautiful Locations
120 Units to Choose
From
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RESORTS ESTES PARK, CO
Mountain View Cabins | Riverfront Condos | Large Mountain Homes Hot Tub and Jacuzzi Suites | Dog-Friendly Choices
Five beautiful resorts to meet your needs and dreams—budget to luxury. Let us welcome you to your home away from home.
800.479.9749 | www.RockyMtnResorts.com
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970.586.5377 ■ 800.323.0031 www.NickysResort.com
■ On Fall River ■ River Units with Fireplaces■ Cabins with Fireplaces ■ Lodge Rooms
■ Heated Outdoor Pool
Best Motel Deals
on Fall River
YOUR ROCKY MOUNTAIN VACATION HEADQUARTERS
970-586-2358 • www.estescomfortinn.com1450 Big Thompson Ave. (Hwy. 34 East)
• AAA ♦♦♦• Free Wi-Fi• Micro/Fridge• Expanded Hot Breakfast
• Air-Conditioned • Business Center• Fitness Center• Outdoor Pool (In Season)
• Pet Free • Nonsmoking• Guest Laundry• Whirlpool• Meeting Room
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www.StreamSideonFallriver.com - 800.321.33031260 Fall River Road - Estes Park, CO 80517
• Brand new condos & townhomes • Fireplaces • Fully equipped kitchens • Heated outdoor pool and
hot tubs • Group meeting room • Walk downtown • Riverside • Dog-friendly options available!
970.325.6864 • 200 Filbey Courtwww.FallRiverVillage.com | [email protected]
Family Vacations | Reunions | Weddings | Retreats
970.577.0068www.EstesParkCondos.com
Secluded, upscale 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom condos along peaceful Fall River with river views from every condo! Kitchens, living room fireplace and private decks. Private hot tubs and spas available.
Call to inquire about a Wedding, Reunion or your Corporate Retreat.
COMPLIMENTARY: Stocked River Fishing with Free Poles & Tackle, Wi-Fi, Local Calls, Cable TV/DVD, Movies, Book Library, Board Games, BBQ Grills
FREE seasonal shuttle to RMNP and Downtown 1 Mile to RMNP. 3 Miles to Downtown
Luxury Property on Fall River
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800 Moraine Avenue 970.577.0202 trouthavenresorts.com
Join us for your nextFAMILY ADVENTURE
800.794.7857www.trouthavenresorts.com
1-, 2- & 3-bedroom condos overlooking the Big Thompson River, washer & dryer, full kitchen, fi replace
110 full hook up sites, 22 on the Big Thompson River, trees,
paved roads, laundry, clubhouse, playground, pooch friendly
Riverside cabins, full kitchen, wood burning fi replaces,*
pooch friendly **
2,000 sq. ft. of fl exible meeting space, caterer’s kitchen,
prep space, bar area
7 bedrooms, sleeps up to 30, two full kitchens, private balconies,
hot tub and grill
Fully stocked pond, no license required, rod rentals, bait and fi sh
cleaning available. Ice skating and ice fi shing in season
* Most Cabins ** Some Cabins
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looking for
estes park
lodging?Get started
at www.VisitEstesPark.com,
where you can click
the Lodgingtab to learn
about allthe greatplaces to spend a
great night!
Anderson Realty & Management866.586.2950 | 970.586.2950
170 S. St. Vrain | www.EstesParkRentals.com
Within minutes of gorgeous Rocky Mountain National Park, Anderson Realty & Management
will provide all the comforts of home for your vacation.
Private homes, cabins and condos for 2 to 10 guestsBeautiful viewsSome near river
Full KitchensNonsmoking Units
Decks with barbecue grillCable or satellite TV
Small, Affordable
• Air Conditioning• Free Wi-Fi Internet• Full Range of Suites• Rooms at Ground Level• Parking by Rooms• Dogs Welcome
800-726-9049 ❁ 970-586-4533 www.estescolumbineinn.com • [email protected]
Estes park guests have called area accommodations “super comfortable,”
“classic and charming,” and “Clean and close to shopping,”
according to TripAdvisor.
A secluded resort located in Rocky Mountain National Park• 1-, 2- & 3-Bedroom Housekeeping Cottages• Quiet, Wooded Setting• Fully Equipped Kitchens with Microwaves• Children Welcome
• Fireplaces• Porches & Patios with Grills• Cable TV• Playground & Recreation Area • Small Pets OK• Open May 19–October 1
970-586-4276 • www.machinscottages.com2450 Eagle Cliff Road • P.O. Box 2687
Estes Park’s Boutique Riverside Retreat
Newly Renovated in 2016!
Simplifi ed luxury along the picturesque Big Th ompson River with stunning access to nature and warm Rocky
Mountain hospitality. It’s a new way to stay in Estes Park!• Exclusive Riverfront Access • Private Fireplaces
• Custom, Handcrafted Barn Wood & Old Hickory Furnishings• Private Balconies & Patios • Flat Screen HDTV with Direct TV •
Complimentary Wi-Fi & Coff ee • Kitchens & Kitchenettes • Riverfront Fire Pit & Pavilion
Just outside the main entrance of RMNP
1774 CO HWY. 66 — 970.820.0118
www.thelandingestespark.com
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Black Canyon Inn800.897.3730 | 970.586.8113
800 MacGregor Ave.www.blackcanyoninn.com
• 1-, 2- & 3-Bedroom Condos • Open Year-Round
• Seasonal Outdoor Heated Pool • Gas Fireplaces
• Deck/Patio • Restaurant on Property
• Full Kitchens • Wi-Fi Available
• Nonsmoking Property • No Pets
Blackhawk Cabins970.586.6100
1750 Fall River Rd.www.blackhawkestespark.com
Log cabins on Fall RiverHot tub on the river • Wood-burning fi replaces
Free Wi-Fi/TVs and DVDs • NonsmokingGrills and picnic tables • Fishing on the river
Fully equipped kitchens • No petsOpen year-round • Centrally located between
downtown and RMNP
Best Western Plus Silver Saddle Inn800.528.1234 | 970.586.4476
1260 Big Thompson Ave.www.EstesResort.com
Free High-Speed Internet • Air-ConditionedNo Smoking on the Premises • Open All Year
Coin Laundry • Heated Pool (Seasonal)Suites/2-Room Units • Business Center
Indoor Hot Tub • Coff ee Makers Iron/Board • Micro/Fridge • Playground
Hot Breakfast • Sundry ShopFitness Center • Meeting Rooms
AAA ���
Columbine Inn800.726.9049 | 970.586.4533
1540 Big Thompson Ave. [email protected]
Close To Everything—Close To Perfect
• Comfortable, Aff ordable & Convenient • Free Wi-Fi • Jacuzzi & Fireplace Suites
• Ground Level • Roomside Parking • Pet-Friendly • Air-Conditioned
• Smoke-Free Rooms • Walk to Lake Estes
Elk Meadow Lodge & RV Resort970.586.5342
1665 CO Hwy. 66 | [email protected]
Scenic beauty with open acreage in a western setting and spectacular views make
this the premier RV Resort in Estes Park.
• Heated Pool & Hot Tub • 1919 Historic Lodge & Entertainment
• Mini Golf • Gift Shop • RV Sites, Cabins & Tents • Teepees
Deer Crest Resort800.331.2324 | 970.586.23241200 Fall River Rd. (Hwy. 34)www.DeerCrestResort.com
Experience the peace and quiet of Deer Crest Resort on beautiful Fall River. A nonsmoking,
adults-only getaway. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the river, or relax by the fi re pit in the courtyard.
Off ering breathtaking views and wildlife. Lodging off ers rooms to suites with kitchenettes
and fi replaces. Just 2 miles to RMNP and 2 minutes to downtown. Hot tub. Wi-Fi. Seasonal shuttle.
Restaurant within 2-minute walk.
Castle Mountain Lodge800.689.8284 | 970.586.3664
1520 Fall River Rd., 80517 www.CastleMountainLodge.com
Leave the fast lane—cross our covered bridge to simple serenity in a cozy cottage, suite, room or vacation home among towering pines along Fall River. Friendly hosts! Fish our stocked river. Explore 30+ acres adjoining the national park. Enjoy a fi replace, hot tub, barbecue, kitchen,
playground, wandering wildlife, paved Riverwalk to town. Free Wi-Fi. Gather for a small meeting
or wedding in the off -season. AAA.
Boulder Brook on Fall RIver800.238.0910 | 970.586.0910
1900 Fall River Rd. | www.boulderbrook.com
Relax in riverfront luxury. Soak in your private, two-person jetted tub in our spa suites, or enjoy
the space of a one-bedroom suite.
1- & 2-Person In-Room Spa Tubs Fireplaces
Riverfront Decks Free Wi-Fi
Fully Equipped Kitchens 2 miles to RMNP & Downtown
Hot Tub, BBQs & Picnic Facilities
Brynwood on the River800.279.4488 | 970.586.3475
710 Moraine Ave. | [email protected]
• Riverfront and Poolside Cabins• A/C Motel • Vacation Home
• Outdoor Pool• Outdoor and Private Hot Tubs
• Kitchens/Kitchenettes• Cable TV • Free Wi-Fi• Stocked River Fishing
• 1.25 Mi. to RMNP• 1.25 Mi. to Downtown
• Open All Year• Nonsmoking • No Pets
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McGregor Mountain Lodge800-835-8439 (VIEW), 970-586-3457
2815 Fall River Rd. www.McGregorMountainLodge.com
Escape to the quintessential mountain experience in our cozy, modern cabins.
Wood-burning fi replaces, full kitchens, just 1/2 mile to Rocky Mountain National Park and 4 miles
from downtown Estes Park. Open year-round, Wi-Fi, dog friendly, smoke-free.
Abundant wildlife watching and birding.
Peak to Peak Lodge800.726.7325 | 970.586.4451
760 S. St. Vrain Ave. (Hwy. 7) | [email protected]
• Online booking available on website• Best value for singles, couples and families
• Rooms with balcony, fi replace & mountain view• 2-room units with kitchenette, up to 5 people
• All rooms nonsmoking • Pet-free property
• Heated pool and hot tub, BBQ grill• Free wireless internet
• Close to golf, fairground events,RMNP, town & convention center
Rockmount Cottages970.586.4168 | www.RockmountCottages.com
1852 CO Hwy. 66 | [email protected]
For the perfect mountain experience, stay at Rockmount Cottages. Located 1 mi. from RMNP &
2.5 mi. from downtown Estes Park, our riverside cabins off er magnifi cent wildlife and mountain views in every season. Enjoy our clean & well-maintained property and our friendly & casual atmosphere. Begin your family vacation tradition at Rockmount! Family-
owned since 1978. Open year-round. Sorry, no pets. • 15 acres • On Big Thompson River • Kitchens • Fireplaces (most units) • 1, 2, or 3 Bedrooms • Flat-
screen TV • DirecTV • DVD • Free Wi-Fi • Each cabin has patio area/deck with picnic table & charcoal grill.
Rodeway Inn800.458.1182 | 970.586.5363
1701 North Lake Ave. | [email protected]
“Anytime of the Year, the Best Rates Are Here.”Featuring 130 clean, comfortable, aff ordable guest
rooms and suites. Indoor heated pool, hot tub, large game room, free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast.
Three meeting/banquet rooms and our own full-service and on-site catering department
give us the diversity to host most any size of group. Across the street from beautiful Lake Estes, 1 mile to downtown Estes Park, 4.6 miles to entry of the world-renowned Rocky Mountain National Park. In
Estes Park . . . “The Best Way is Rodeway.”
Loveland Heights Cottages/Loveland Heights West
970.586.5806 | 2542 Big Thompson Ave.www.LovelandHeightsCottages.com
Step back in time and treat yourselves to the charm of Loveland Heights. 16 quaint cottages, 2 beautiful condos and 1 A-frame house nestled along the banks
of the Big Thompson River. 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens. Decks right on or
over the river. Enjoy fi shing, hiking, picnicking or strolling down our beautiful Riverwalk. Just 3 miles east of Estes Park and 5 miles east of RMNP. With
rates starting at $115 a day, we off er one of the best vacation values in Estes Park. Sorry, no pets.
Mountain Shadows Resort888.577.0397 | 970.577.0397
871 Riverside Dr. www.mountainshadowsresort.net
Comfy, cozy and so romantic. Mountain Shadows Resort features couples
cabins with private hot tubs, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, king beds with upgraded
bedding, kitchenettes and much more. Close to RMNP. Pet friendly.
FloAnn’s Cottages888.256.2667 | 970.586.3759
163 Big Pine Lane, Drake, CO 80515 www.fl oannscottages.net
Pet-friendly vacation cottage and cabin rentals fi ve miles east of Estes Park in the Big
Thompson Canyon. Fully equipped kitchens (just bring your own food), two wood-burning
fi replaces. Units sleep from 5 to 8 people. Great access to all mountain views and wildlife.
Rocky Mountain Park Inn844.744.5527 | 970.586.2332
101 S. St. Vrain Ave.www.RockyMountainParkInn.com
Completely remodeled in 2017, we have 150 guest rooms, large heated indoor pool and hot tub, fi tness center
and game room. We also have a refreshed restaurant and bar. Adjoined to Estes Park
Conference Center. Open year-round. Pets welcome. Located minutes from
downtown shopping and dining.
Paradise on the River866.556.3422 | 970.586.5513
1836 State Hwy. 66 | [email protected]
Paradise on the River . . . a quiet and peaceful setting for your vacation, small family reunion,
wedding or honeymoon. Enjoy our riverside family cottage, cabins and RV rentals, or relax in your
own RV, listening to the sounds of the Big Thompson River. We are one mile to the south entrance of RMNP and the YMCA.
Restrooms, showers, laundry, cable TV, Wi-Fi and fi shing. Pets welcome!
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Romantic RiverSong Bed & Breakfast Inn
970.586.4666 | www.romanticriversong.com 1766 Lower Broadview Rd.
• 10 romantic guest rooms• 26 private acres on a wildlife habitat
• adults only • nonsmoking • open year-round• rooms in the main inn or in separate buildings,
most with fi replaces, jetted tubs and patios• creative and delicious breakfast each morning
• complimentary tea service with fresh baked goods•streamside seating areas and private hiking trail• candlelight dinners and streamside massages
• 1 dog-friendly room • discount for 5 nights or more• ideal for honeymoons and anniversaries
Rustic River Cabins970.586.8493
2550 U.S. Hwy. 34, Drake, CO [email protected] www.rusticrivercabins.com
Rustic River Cabins are tucked away in the Big Thompson Canyon just four miles from
Estes Park on Big Thompson River. Close enough to Estes Park to enjoy all that the city and Rocky Mountain National Park have to off er. Come for
the mountains, stay for the hospitality.
Saddle & Surrey Motel800.204.6226 | 970.586.3326
1341 S. St. Vrain Ave. | [email protected]
Family-operated, quiet, 26 clean units. We are in Estes Park, on beautiful scenic Hwy. 7 about 1.5 miles from downtown & fairgrounds. 4 miles from
RMNP, one block from 18-hole golf course. All rooms have refrigerators, microwaves, AC & are
nonsmoking. Some with kitchenettes. Picnic area, barbeque grills & a playground for the little ones.
Outdoor heated pool & spa in summer. Complimentary coff ee and pastries. Free Wi-Fi.
Sorry, no pets. Please come and enjoy your stay in beautiful Estes Park.
Spruce Lake RV Park970.586.2889
1050 Marys Lake Rd. | [email protected]
The entire family will enjoy the beauty and amenities of this riverside, full-service park.
• Stocked Fishing Pond • On the River
• Mini Golf • Gift Shop• RV Sites & Cabins
• Heated Pool & Hot Tub
Streamside on Fall River800.321.3303 | 970.586.64641260 Fall River Rd. (Hwy. 34)
www.StreamsideOnFallRiver.com
Nestled between Fall River and Old Man Mountain, Streamside’s riverfront cabins are one
of the Rocky Mountains’ most unique resorts. Streamside’s secluded village of 21 cabins and suites are sprinkled over 17 manicured acres of pine and aspen trees. Cabins and suites feature gas fi replaces, private hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, gas grills and hammocks
for relaxing under the sunny blue skies of Colorado. All guests have 24-hour access
to the outdoor hot tub.
StoneBrook Resort800.225.9313 | 970.586.46291710 Fall River Rd. (Hwy. 34)www.stonebrookresort.com
A Tranquil Mountain Environment at Your Back Door…
• Riverside Cottages with Private Hot Tubs• RiverSuites with In-Room Spa Tubs
• Kitchens • Fireplaces• Wi-Fi • Cable TV/DVD Library
• Adults-Only Resort • Open Year-Round
TripAdvisor Certifi cate of Excellence Winner 2016
Relax & Renew…get in touch with pure Colorado Rocky Mountain Nature.
Workshire Lodge877.586.2198 | 970.586.2198
2690 Fall River Roadwww.workshirelodge.com
• Clean, aff ordable studio, 1- and 2-bedroom summer cabins in quiet setting on Fall River
• Luxury suites with fi replaces open year-round• Fishing/wildlife/mountain views • Free Wi-Fi• ½ mile from Rocky Mountain National Park
• Kitchens/kitchenettes • Private gas grills and picnic tables • Handcrafted rockers on porches• Special winter rates • Discount for 7 nights or
more • 8 acres with mature trees, open meadows • Riverfront property • Nonsmoking • No pets
YMCA of the Rockies970.586.3341 | 2515 Tunnel Road
www.ymcarockies.org
Surrounded on three sides by Rocky MountainNational Park, YMCA of the Rockies off ers familiesand groups an environment to spend quality time
together while participating in a variety of activities, including, zip lining, mini-golf, an indoor
swimming pool, horseback riding, guided hikes, educational and recreational family programs,
a craft center, and much more. Accommodation options include cabins and hotel-style lodge rooms.
All lodging includes linens and towels. Open year-round, the YMCA of the Rockies off ers a
variety of rates to fi t any budget.
Valhalla Resort800.522.3284 | 970.586.3284
2185 Eagle Cliff Rd.www.valhallaresort.com | [email protected]
Escape to the peace and quiet of Valhalla Resort.
• Cabins 1–4 BR • Bordering RMNP• Full kitchens • Hot tubs/Jacuzzis• Free Wi-Fi • Fireplaces/gas grills
• Heated pool • Activity center
Choose a night, change a life. Every night you stay helps to provide shelter for someone in need,
somewhere in the world.
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$=Up to $99, $$=$100–$199, $$$= $200–$299, $$$$= $300+ | Available in All Units | �Available in Some Units | �On the Property | OUT = Outside Only*RMNP= Rocky Mountain National Park | All addresses are Estes Park, CO 80517 unless otherwise noted. | Call property for level of disabled access.
FEATURED LODGINGType
SummerSeason—
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# of
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ALPINE TRAIL RIDGE INN970-586-4585 | 927 Moraine Ave. | www.alpinetrailridgeinn.comExceptionally clean. Mountain views. Hiking/photo info. Near restaurants & RMNP.*
Hotel/MotelLodge/Inn
Suites
$$–$$$—$–$$
48 � � OUT � � � OUT � � 64
ANDERSON REALTY & MANAGEMENT866-586-2950, 970-586-2950 | 170 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.estesparkrentals.com Fully equipped homes, cabins & condos. All you need to bring is food!
CabinsCondoHome
$–$$$$—
$–$$$$20 � � � � � � � � 72
ASPEN BROOK VACATION HOMES970-586-3748 | 2340 Aspen Brook Dr. (off Spur 66) | www.aspenbrook.comOn the river. 300 yards to RMNP.* Luxury homes.
CabinsHomes
$$$–$$$$—$$$–$$$$
13 � � � � � � 67
ASPIRE RESIDENCES AT THE STANLEY HOTEL800-976-1377, 970-577-4077 | 520 Steamer Pkwy. | www.stanleyhotel.com/aspireBrand new premier accommodation with luxury décor & industry-leading amenities.
HotelSuitesCondo
$$$$—$$$
40 � � � � � � � 1559
BEAR PAW SUITES/RIVER STONE RESORTS888-234-4747, 970-586-4005 | 2120 Fall River Rd. | www.riverstoneresorts.comBeautiful river setting. 2 mi. to town or RMNP.* Kitchens. Jacuzzi tubs. Open all year.
CabinsLodge/Suites
Condos/House
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$26 � � � � � � � 64
BEAVER BROOK ON THE RIVER800-794-7857, 970-577-0202 | 1700 CO Hwy. 66 | www.trouthavenresorts.comStudio, 2- & 3-bedroom units with fi replaces. On the Big Thompson River.
SuitesCondos
$$$–$$$$—$$$–$$$$
17 � � � � � � � 71
BEST WESTERN PLUS SILVER SADDLE INN800-528-1234, 970-586-4476 | 1260 Big Thompson Ave. | www.estesresort.com100% smoke-free. Hot breakfast. Fitness center. AAA ���
HotelMotelSuites
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$63 � � OUT � � � � � 73
BLACK CANYON INN800-897-3730, 970-586-8113 | 800 MacGregor Ave. | www.blackcanyoninn.comMountain views. Secluded resort. Close to downtown.
CabinsCondoHouse
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$$26 � � � OUT � � � 73
BLACKHAWK CABINS970-586-6100 | 1750 Fall River Rd. | www.blackhawkestespark.comCabins on the river. Centrally located between RMNP* and downtown.
Cabins$$–$$$—
$$–$$$10 � � � � OUT � 73
BOULDER BROOK ON FALL RIVER800-238-0910, 970-586-0910 | 1900 Fall River Rd. | www.boulderbrook.comRiverfront luxury suites. Fireplaces and in-room jetted tubs, outdoor hot tub.
CabinsHotel, Suites
Condos
$$$—
$–$$$20 � � � � � 63
73
BRYNWOOD ON THE RIVER800-279-4488, 970-586-3475 | 710 Moraine Ave. | www.brynwood.comRiverfront/Poolside Cabins, Motel, Vacation Home, 1.25 mi. to RMNP,* Open All Year
MotelCabins
Vacation Home
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$26 � � � OUT � �
� � � 64
CABINS AT RAMS HORN VILLAGE RESORT800-229-4676, 970-586-4338 | 1565 CO Hwy. 66 | www.rhvresort.comAward-winning cabins at RMNP* entrance. Heated pool, playground. Resort for families!
Cabins$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$46 � � � � � � � � � 67
CASTLE MOUNTAIN LODGE800-689-8284, 970-586-3664 | 1520 Fall River Rd. | www.CastleMountainLodge.comOn Fall River. Borders RMNP.* 1000-ft. stocked river.
CabinsHotelSuites
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$31 � � � � � � � � 67
73
COLORADO CONDOS AT BOBCAT RIDGE303-772-7884, 303-204-7880 | 1439 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.BobcatRidgeCondos.comLuxury condos. Reunions, vacations, romantic getaways.
SuitesCondo
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$$4 � � � � � 61
COLUMBINE INN800-726-9049, 970-586-4533 | 1540 Big Thompson Ave. | www.estescolumbineinn.comNear Lake Estes marina. All units ground level. Aff ordable and convenient.
MotelSuites
$$–$$$—$–$$
20 � � � � � � OUT �7273
DEER CREST RESORT800-331-2324, 970-586-2324 | 1200 Fall River Rd. | www.DeerCrestResort.comOn Fall River. Near RMNP.* Smoke-free property. Adults-only getaway.
Hotel | MotelLodgeSuites
$$–$$$—$–$$
25 � � � � � 73
DELLA TERRA MOUNTAIN CHATEAU 970-586-2501 | 3501 Fall River Rd. | www.DellaTerraMountainChateau.comFull breakfast included. Spa treatment room and theater room.
B&BCabinsSuites
$$$–$$$—
$$$–$$$19 � � � � � � OUT
6569
ESTES PARK CONDOS—CREEKSIDE, ANTLERS POINTE, BUGLE POINTE800-349-1003, 970-577-0068 | 1400 David Dr. | www.EstesParkCondos.comSecluded, luxury condos, each with a view of Fall River. 1 mile to RMNP.*
CabinsLodge | Suites
Condo
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$$70 � � � �
� � OUT � � 6170
THE ESTES PARK RESORT970-577-6400 | 1700 Big Thompson Ave. | www.theestesparkresort.comAn Estes Park favorite. Lakeview rooms, restaurant, spa services.
HotelLodgeSuites
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$54 � � � IN � � � � � IFC
THE EVERGREENS ON FALL RIVER888-686-3393, 970-577-9786 | 1500 Fish Hatchery Rd. | www.evergreensonfallriver.comLuxury cabins on Fall River. 1.5 miles to RMNP.* Romance packages, gift certifi cates.
CabinsLodge
Condos/Home
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$14 � � � �
�OUT � 68
FALL RIVER VILLAGE970-325-6864 | 200 Filbey Ct. | www.FallRiverVillage.comNew luxury condos/townhomes, walk to town, on Fall River, private fi shing, outdoor pool
CabinsCondos
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$67 � � � OUT � � � �
6570
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FEATURED LODGINGType
SummerSeason—
Value Season
# of
Uni
ts
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Wi-F
i
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(In
/Out
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FAWN VALLEY INN (Rocky Mountain Resorts)800-525-2961, 970-586-2388 | 2760 Fall River Rd. | www.FawnValleyInn.comOn Fall River. 1 mile to RMNP.* Abundant wildlife.
CabinsMotel SuitesCondo
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$49 � � � OUT � � � � � 61
68
THE LANDING AT ESTES PARK970-820-0118 | 1774 CO Hwy. 66 | www.TheLandingEstesPark.comNew in 2016! Luxury lodge & cabins on river. Fireplaces, fi repit, massage, close to RMNP.*
CabinsLodge
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$9 � � � � � � � 65
72
LAZY R COTTAGES (Rocky Mountain Resorts)800-726-3728, 970-586-3708 | 891 Moraine Ave. | www.LazyRCottages.comSpectacular mountain views. 1 mile to RMNP.* 1 mile to downtown.
CabinsSuitesCondoHome
$$$—$$
14 � � � � � � � � � 6168
THE LODGE AT THE STANLEY HOTEL800-976-1377, 970-577-4160 | 333 E. Wonderview Ave. | www.stanleyhotel.comA quaint, dog-friendly, boutique bed & breakfast. Full service. Year-round.
HotelLodgeSuites
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$40 � � � � � � 15
59
MACHIN’S COTTAGES IN THE PINES970-586-4276 | 2450 Eagle Cliff Rd. | P.O. Box 2687 | www.machinscottages.comIn RMNP.* Small pets okay. Trail access.
Cabins$$–$$$—
$$–$$$17 � � � � � � 72
MARYS LAKE LODGE MOUNTAIN RESORT AND CONDOS970-586-5958 | 2625 Marys Lake Rd. | www.maryslakelodge.comFrom spacious residences to rustic hotel rooms. Heated pool. Full service.
HotelLodgeCondo
$$–$$$$—$$–$$$
64 � � � OUT � � � � � � 1066
MCGREGOR MOUNTAIN LODGE800-835-8439 (VIEW), 970-586-3457 | 2815 Fall River Rd. | www.McGregorMountainLodge.com. Spectacular views. Wildlife watching/birding. Stand-alone cottages.
CabinsLodgeSuites
$$–$$$$—$–
$$$$
19 � � � � � � � � � 74
MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT888-577-0397, 970-577-0397 | 871 Riverside Dr. | www.mountainshadowsresort.netCouples cabins. Romantic getaways. Please ask about specials.
Cabins$$–$$$—
$$–$$$8 � � � � � � � 74
NICKY’S RESORT800-323-0031, 970-586-5377 | 1360 Fall River Rd. | www.NickysResort.comOn Fall River. Stocked river fi shing. Groups welcome.
CabinsHotel/Motel
Suites
$$–$$$—$–$$
28 � � � OUT � � � � 69
THE OVERLOOK CONDOS AT THE STANLEY HOTEL866-556-3422, 970-577-4000 | 333 E. Wonderview Ave. | www.stanleyhotel.comSpacious, luxurious townhomes. Full service. Year-round. Mountain view.
Condo$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$23 � � � � � � � � 15
59
PARADISE ON THE RIVER866-556-3422, 970-586-5513 | 1836 State Hwy. 66 | www.paradiservcolorado.comRiverside cabins and RV rentals. Top TripAdvisor rated. 1 mile to RMNP* & YMCA.
CabinsRV Park
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$$13 � � � � � � � � � 74
PEAK TO PEAK LODGE800-726-7325, 970-586-4451 | 760 S. St. Vrain Ave., Hwy. 7 | www.PeakToPeakLodge.comClose to golf and events. Balcony suites, fi replace, views, pool, hot tub.
MotelLodgeSuites
$–$$$—$–$$
24 � � � OUT � � � � 74
QUALITY INN ESTES PARK970-586-2358 | 1450 Big Thompson Ave. | www.qualityinnestespark.comDeluxe hot continental breakfast. 2-BR/2-BA loft units. Open year-round. AAA �����
Lodge/InnHotelMotel
$$$–$$$$—
$–$$$73 � � � � � � � � � 65
69
RANGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT888-433-5211, 970-586-7626 | 333 E. Wonderview Ave. | www.rangeprop.comLargest collection of vacation rentals in Estes Park for every budget and style.
CabinsHomes
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$$80 � � � � � � � � � 72
ROCKMOUNT COTTAGES970-586-4168 | 1852 CO Hwy. 66. | www.RockmountCottages.com15 acres on the river. Individual units. Near RMNP.*
Cabins$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$20 � � � � � 74
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARK INN844-744-5527, 970-586-2332 | 101 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.RockyMountainParkInn.comAdjoined to Estes Park Conference Center. Newly remodeled pool, guest rooms & restaurant.
Hotel$$$—$$
150 � � IN � � � � OUT � � 6874
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RESORTS800-672-9289, 970-586-2528 | 2760 Fall River Rd. | www.RockyMtnResorts.com5 resorts to choose from. Cabins, condos, vacation homes, pools.
Vacation Homes$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$� � � � � � � � � 61
68
RODEWAY INN OF ESTES PARK800-458-1182, 970-586-5363 | 1701 N. Lake Ave., Hwy. 34 | www.estesrodewayinn.com“The Best Way is Rodeway.” Perfect group accommodations in Estes.
Hotel/MotelLodgeSuites
$$—$$
130 � � � IN � � � � � 74
RUSTIC RIVER CABINS970-586-8493 | 2550 U.S. Hwy. 34, Drake, CO 80515 | www.rusticrivercabins.comPrivate fi shing. On-site hiking. Family-owned and operated.
Cabins$$—$$
7 � � � � � OUT � � 75
SADDLE & SURREY MOTEL800-204-6226, 970-586-3326 | 1341 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.saddleandsurrey.comNear 18-hole golf course. 1 mile to fairgrounds. Free Wi-Fi.
Motel$$—$–$$
26 � � � � � � � � 75
SOLITUDE CABINS877-704-7777, 970-577-7777 | 1885 Sketch Box Lane | www.solitudecabins.comStand-alone 2 br/2bath units sleep 6. Your mountain home away from home.
CabinsHomes
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$30 � � � � � � � 65
THE STANLEY HOTEL800-976-1377, 970-577-4000 | 333 E. Wonderview Ave. | www.stanleyhotel.comColorado landmark, mountain resort. Perfect wedding and meeting venue.
HotelSuites
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$100 � � � � � � � 15
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$=Up to $99, $$=$100–$199, $$$= $200–$299, $$$$= $300+ | Available in All Units | �Available in Some Units | �On the Property | OUT = Outside Only*RMNP= Rocky Mountain National Park | All addresses are Estes Park, CO 80517 unless otherwise noted. | Call property for level of disabled access.
FEATURED RV PARKS & CAMPGROUNDS
# o
f RV
Spa
ces
# of
Ten
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ces
# o
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ins
Free
Wi-
Fi
Tele
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Dum
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atio
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Sew
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Elec
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ater
Show
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Laun
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Dis
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Out
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ELK MEADOW LODGE & RV RESORT970-586-5342 | 1665 CO Hwy. 66 | www.elkmeadowrv.comSpectacular views. Borders RMNP.* Peaceful setting. Open May 12–Oct. 7.
169 36 8 � � � � � � � � � 73
ESTES PARK KOA800-562-1887, 970-586-2888 | 2051 Big Thompson Ave. | www.estesparkkoa.comA great launching pad for RMNP! The perfect place for every adventure to begin!
43 17 27 � � � � � � � � � � �
ESTES PARK CAMPGROUND AT EAST PORTAL800-964-7806, 970-586-4188 | 3420 Tunnel Rd. | www.evrpd.com/campgroundsClose access to RMNP.* Great views, peaceful setting.
30 39 � � � � � � � 21
ESTES PARK CAMPGROUND AT MARY’S LAKE800-964-7806, 970-577-1026 | 2120 Marys Lake Rd. | www.evrpd.com/campgroundsFishing at Marys Lake. Free shuttle to Estes Park and RMNP.* Heated swimming pool.
66 64 � � � � � � � � � 21
HERMIT PARK OPEN SPACE800-397-7795, 970-577-2090 | 17 Hermit Park Rd. | www.larimer.org/naturalresourcesScenic and peaceful setting. Equestrian campground. Hiking trails.
79 91 15 � � �
MANOR RV PARK 800-558-2954, 970-586-3251 | 815 Riverside Dr. | www.trouthavenresorts.comOn the river, trees, paved roads, minutes from RMNP.
114 � � � � � � � � � � � 71
PARADISE ON THE RIVER866-556-3422, 970-586-5513 | 1836 State Hwy. 66 | www.paradiservcolorado.comOn the river. Cabin and RV rentals. Quiet and adult-oriented.
13 NA 13 � � � � � � 74
SPRUCE LAKE RV PARK970-586-2889 | 1050 Marys Lake Rd. | www.sprucelakerv.comStocked fi shing lake. On Big Thompson River. Walk to dining/shops. Open May 12–Oct. 7.
110 5 � � � � � � � � � 75
FEATURED LODGINGType
SummerSeason—
Value Season
# of
Uni
ts
Free
Wi-F
i
Kitc
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Fire
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(In
/Out
)
A/C
Hot
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Dis
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STONEBROOK RESORT ON FALL RIVER800-225-9313, 970-586-4629 | 1710 Fall River Rd. | www.stonebrookresort.comAdults only. Tranquil, mountain environment. Central location on Fall River.
CabinsSuites
$$–$$$—$–$$
15 � � � � 75
STREAMSIDE ON FALL RIVER800-321-3303, 970-586-6464 | 1260 Fall River Rd. | www.streamsideonfallriver.comHot tub cabins on river. Fishing. Pines, aspen, wildlife abound.
CabinsSuites
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$21 � � � � � �
7075
SUNNYSIDE KNOLL RESORT (Rocky Mountain Resorts)800-586-5212, 970-586-5759 | 1675 Fall River Rd. | www.SunnysideKnoll.comIndoor and outdoor hot tubs. Cabins and suites. Wildlife watching.
CabinsSuites
$$–$$$—$–$$
18 � � � � � � � � �6168
TAHARAA MOUNTAIN LODGE800-597-0098, 970-577-0098 | 3110 S. St. Vrain Ave. | www.taharaa.comCasual elegance, serene natural beauty, and genuinely warm, personal hospitality.
B&BLodge
Hotel, Suites
$$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$$18 � � � � � � � 65
TIMBER CREEK CHALETS (Rocky Mountain Resorts)800-764-4308, 970-586-8803 | 2115 Fall River Rd. | www.TimberCreekChalets.comHike from your chalet. Pool and hot tubs. Abundant wildlife.
CabinsMotelSuites
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$15 � � � OUT � � � � � �
6168
TINY TOWN CABINS ON THE RIVER800-794-7857, 970-577-0202 | 830 Moraine Ave. | www.trouthavenresorts.comRiverside cabins with wood-burning fi replaces, charcoal grill.
Cabins/Cottages$$–$$$—
$$–$$$18 � � � �
� � � � � 71
VALHALLA RESORT800-522-3284, 970-586-3284 | 2185 Eagle Cliff Rd. | www.valhallaresort.comBordering RMNP.* Cabins of all sizes. Abundant wildlife.
Cabins/CottagesLodge/Inn/Suites
Condo/Home
$$–$$$$—
$$–$$$29 � � � OUT � � OUT � � 75
WILDWOOD INN800-551-3681, 970-586-7804 | 2801 Fall River Rd. | www.esteswildwoodinn.comBordering RMNP.* Day spa. Riverfront and mountainside suites.
CabinsLodge/Suites
Home
$$–$$$$—
$–$$$$34 � � � � � �
� � � � � 6166
WORKSHIRE LODGE877-586-2198, 970-586-2198 | 2690 Fall River Rd. | www.workshirelodge.comOn Fall River. Near RMNP.* Suites/Cabins.
CabinsSuites
$$–$$$—
$$–$$$13 � � � � � 75
YMCA OF THE ROCKIES—ESTES PARK CENTER970-586-3341 | 2515 Tunnel Rd. | www.ymcarockies.orgFamily-oriented. Walking distance to RMNP.* Activities for all ages.
CabinsHotel
$$–$$$$—$–$$
906 � � � IN � � OUT � �575
800.443.7837 | VISITESTESPARK.COM | 79
When it comes to where to dine, where to stay, where to shop and what to do, well, now you know. Just look below for featured businesses! For a complete list, go to www.VisitEstesPark.com.
DINING
BIG HORN RESTAURANTwww.EstesParkBigHorn.com401 W. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-2792Have your picnic lunch made while enjoying breakfast. Open 6 a.m., serving breakfast until 2 p.m., lunch and dinner. Enjoy our mountain comfort food. Catering and private rooms available. AD PAGE 48
CASA GRANDEwww.CasaGrandeMexicana.com220 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-577-0799Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes at aff ordable prices. Riverside dining and “the best margaritas in town.” Open daily at 11 a.m. AD PAGE 48
CASCADES RESTAURANT & WHISKEY BAR AT THE STANLEY HOTELwww.stanleyhotel.com/dining333 E. Wonderview Ave.800-976-1377, 970-577-4001Locally inspired seasonal selections and traditional dishes. The Whiskey Bar features fi ne bourbons, rare scotches and limited-product barrels. AD PAGES 15, 59
LONGZwww.RockyMountainParkInn.com101 S. St. Vrain Ave.844-744-5527, 970-586-2332Completely remodeled in 2017. Come check out this restaurant and bar. Open year-round. AD PAGE 68
MAMA ROSE’Swww.EstesDining.com338 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-3330Homemade Italian. Kid’s menu, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, classic bar, beer, extensive wine list. Riverside patio. Reservations welcome. AD PAGE 48
MOUNTAIN HOME CAFÉwww.mountainhomecafe.com457 E. Wonderview Ave.970-586-6624A local’s favorite serving breakfast and lunch all day. Family-owned and operated. Open daily at 7 a.m. Located in the Stanley Village Shopping Center. AD PAGE 48
POPPY’S PIZZA & GRILLwww.EstesDining.com342 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-8282Casual dining on the Riverwalk. Pizza, salad bar, sandwiches, burgers, kid’s menu, vegetarian/vegan options, wine, extensive beer selection. AD PAGE 48
TABLEwww.stanleyhotel.com/table333 E. Wonderview Ave.800-976-1377, 970-577-4160An upscale, pop-up restaurant fea-turing chefs, wine makers, brewers & distillers, Fri. and Sat. The Lodge at the Stanley Hotel. Reservations Required. AD PAGES 15, 59
TAVERN 1929www.maryslakelodge.com2625 Marys Lake Rd.877-442-6279, 970-586-5958Mountain comfort food with creativity and fl air, Tavern 1929 and banquet facilities are perfect for receptions, weddings, conferences and reunions.AD PAGES 10, 66
TRAILHEAD RESTAURANTwww.trailheadrestaurant.com3450 Fall River Rd.970-577-0043Family-style dining in a beautiful facility with views of RMNP. Gluten-free options. Takeout available. Large groups and buses welcome. AD PAGE 49
THE VIEW RESTAURANTwww.theviewestes.com300 Riverside Dr.970-586-1087Casual fi ne dining. Mountain views. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, full bar, private events. Reservations suggested. AD PAGE 49
WATERFRONT GRILLE AT THE ESTES PARK RESORTwww.theestesparkresort.com1700 Big Thompson Ave.970-577-6416With a menu that changes season-ally, the Waterfront Grille inside Estes Park Resort remains a dining favorite. Overlooking Lake Estes. AD PAGE IFC
REUNIONS & RETREATS
COLORADO CONDOS AT BOBCAT RIDGEwww.bobcatridgecondos.com1439 S. Saint Vrain Ave.303-772-7884, 303-204-7880Four fully equipped luxury condos sleep up to 28; patios, grills, free Wi-Fi. Wooded commons area with playground, picnic tables, fi re pit and horseshoes. AD PAGE 61
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARK INNwww.RockyMountainParkInn.com101 S. St. Vrain Ave.844-744-5527, 970-586-2332Newly remodeled in 2017. Professional reunion and retreat planners. Customized catering on-site. Outdoor patio. Indoor pool. Adjoined to Estes Park Conference Center. AD PAGES 68
ROCKY MOUNTAIN RESORTSwww.RockyMtnResorts.com2760 Fall River Rd.800-476-6293Five unique resorts for special occasions—large and small, formal and casual. Event coordinator avail-able to assist you. AD PAGES 61, 68
YMCAwww.ymcarockies.org2515 Tunnel Rd.970-586-3341YMCA of the Rockies off ers a variety of cabin sizes, lodge rooms, meeting spaces and team-building activities for family reunions and group retreats! Book your group today! AD PAGES 5, 75
SERVICES
ESTES PARK ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONwww.estesparkedc.com533 Big Thompson Ave., Ste. 103970-577-1031Assisting new and existing businesses reach their full potential in the Estes Park region. Contact us about starting your business here. AD PAGE 7
ESTES PARK PET LODGEwww.EstesParkPetLodge.com1260 Manford Ave.970-586-9282 Healthy, clean and fun facility for family pets. Doggie day care, overnight stays and 24-hour veterinary care. Open 7 days a week. AD PAGE 7
ESTES PARK SHUTTLEwww.estesparkshuttle.com1805 Cherokee Dr. 970-586-5151Daily transportation to and from Denver International Airport. Groups and weddings charters; guided tours; trips to casinos, sporting events & ski areas. AD PAGE 6
FIRST COLORADO REALTYwww.fi rstcoloradorealty.com523 St. Vrain Lane970-586-3333Your local Estes Valley real estate experts providing excellent service and expertise.
SHOPPING
ALPENGLOW IMAGES & ACCENTSwww.alpenglowimages.info145 E. Elkhorn Ave., Park Place Mall970-577-6802Our gallery off ers landscape and wildlife images by Richard H. Hahn. In addition, we off er gifts and décor items, jewelry and antiques. AD PAGE 24
ASPEN AND EVERGREEN GALLERYwww.aspenandevergreen.com356 E. Elkhorn Ave., Apt. 1970-586-4355 Unique gallery with James Frank fi ne art photography & 60+ local artists’ work. Glass, pottery, jewelry & more! Open all year. AD PAGE 43
COUNTRY MARKETwww.nationalparkvillage.com900 Moraine Ave.970-586-2702On the way to the park. Indepen-dently owned and operated since 1978. AD PAGE 45
IMAGES OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARKwww.imagesofrmnp.com203 Park Lane970-586-4352Find Erik Stensland’s work in his gallery across from Bond Park in downtown. Living room prints to greeting cards and more. Open daily all year. AD PAGE 43
JAMES FRANK PHOTOGRAPHYwww.jamesfrank.com356 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-3418High-quality fi ne art prints for home or offi ce along with illustrated books showcasing the artist’s photography of the natural world and RMNP. AD PAGE 20
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORYwww.estesparkchocolate.com517 Big Thompson Ave.970-586-6601Caramel apples, fudge, gifts, corpo-rate sales, weddings and more!
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN GATEWAYwww.rockymountaingateway.com3450 Fall River Rd.970-577-0043One of the area’s largest gift shops. Located at the North entrance to RMNP. Restaurant—dine in or take out. Fantastic views. AD PAGE 38
THE SMIRKING FOXwww.smirkingfox.com517 Big Thompson Ave., Unit 302970-235-2628An herbal apothecary and tea company off ering essential oils, diff users, organic herbs and teas, bulk ingredients for product crafting, nature-inspired art and gifts. AD PAGE 45
TRUE VALUE/RADIO SHACK461 E. Wonderview Ave. Stanley Village Shopping Center970-586-3496, 970-586-2880Housewares, clothing, RV supplies, sporting goods, camping equipment, fi shing equipment/licenses, board games, DVD rentals, electronics, shipping. Open 7 days a week. AD PAGE 38
SPA SERVICES
THE SPA AT WILDWOOD INNwww.EstesWildwoodInn.com2801 Fall River Rd. 800-551-3681, 970-586-7804Our spa menu off ers an array of soothing and restorative treatments for the ultimate relaxing experience for the mind and body. AD PAGES 61, 66
THINGS TO DO
A1 WILDWATER RAFTINGwww.A1wildwater.com800-369-4165, 970-224-3379Rafting from mild to wild! Greatest variety of rafting trips and times. Poudre River and North Platte River. Celebrating 35 years with the original owners. AD PAGE 24
ELKHORN STABLESwww.horsebackestespark.com600 W. Elkhorn Ave.970-480-5298Let our highly skilled wranglers show you the beautiful scenery of our mountain town on a 1- or 2-hour ride! Outdoor fun for the entire family!
ESTES PARK MOUNTAIN SHOPwww.estesparkmountainshop.com2050 Big Thompson Ave.866-303-6548, 970-586-6548Guided adventure tours and huge outdoor sporting goods store. Rock climbing, hiking, snowshoeing, fl y fi shing, biking, indoor climbing gym, rentals. AD PAGE 19
ESTES PARK OUTFITTERSwww.estesparkoutfi tters.com5229 Little Valley Dr.970-215-7064Private snowcat tours. Backcountry, off -grid lodge. Groomed ski and snowshoe trails minutes from Estes Park.
ESTES PARK RIDE-A-KART AND CASCADE CREEK MINI-GOLF www.rideakart.com2250 Big Thompson Ave.970-586-6495Family fun for everyone. Eight attractions and rides, two mini golf courses. One mile east of the visitor center on Hwy. 34. Celebrating more than 50 years! AD PAGE 25
ESTES PARK YOGAwww.estesparkyoga.com145 E. Elkhorn Ave., Unit 200970-586-3254We are here to help rejuvenate your body, refresh your mind and encourage growth with a variety of classes to suit all levels, ages, shapes, sizes and abilities.
GREEN JEEP TOURSwww.greenjeeptour.com157 Moraine Ave.970-577-0034Estes Park’s premier jeep tours! Enjoy breathtaking views, amazing waterfalls and abundant wildlife of the RMNP area. AD PAGE 25, 29
HISTORIC PARK THEATRE & CAFÉwww.historicparktheatre.com130 Moraine Ave.970-586-8904Vintage downtown theater with new screen, projector and surround
sound system playing fi rst-run movies and hosting live events and special events. AD PAGE 25
KIRKS FLYSHOP & MOUNTAIN ADVENTURESwww.KirksFlyShop.com,www.KirksMountainAdventures.com 230 E. Elkhorn Ave.877-669-1859, 970-577-0790Fly fi shing & outdoor shop. Guided trips: fl y fi shing, private water, overnight backpacking, horseback and llama pack, Longs Peak, and snowshoe. AD PAGE BACK COVER
LUMPY RIDGE BREWINGwww.lumpyridgebrewing.com531 S. St. Vrain Ave.812-201-3836We are off the beaten path in spirit and location. Come get weird with us and check out our little version of the American Dream. Craft beer!
MOUNTAIN WHITEWATERwww.raftmwd.com1329 N. U.S. Hwy. 287, Fort Collins 970-419-0917 Come and raft Colorado’s only “Wild & Scenic River.” 1-2 days or 1/2 day. Class III and IV. Our guides make the diff erence! AD PAGE 20
NEW VENTURE CYCLINGwww.newventurecycling.com2050 Big Thompson Ave.970-231-2736We off er fun and interpretive downhill bike tours in Rocky Mountain National Park. Learn about this special place and enjoy the scenery from the seat of a bicycle. AD PAGE 25
RAPID TRANSIT RAFTINGwww.RapidTransitRafting.com161 Virginia Dr.800-367-8523; 970-577-RAFT (7238)Estes Park’s only hometown rafting company, off ering family whitewater trips. TRANSPORTATION FROM ESTES PARK on every trip—every day since 1983.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONSERVANCY FIELD INSTITUTE www.RMConservancy.org1895 Fall River Rd.970-586-3262Provides custom and regularly scheduled educational adventures, bus tours, hikes, and classes in Rocky Mountain National Park and surrounding areas. AD PAGE 24
TOUR ESTES PARKwww.tourestespark.com303-260-8134I pick you up and do the driving during your intimate, customized tour of 1–3 hours. Historical Estes Park or RMNP. Amazing views. Ultimate photo ops.
TOURS AT THE STANLEY HOTELwww.stanleyhotel.com/tours333 E. Wonderview Ave.800-976-1377, 970-577-4111Off ering daily tours ranging from day Stanley Historic Tours to the popular Night Ghost Tours. Advance booking is strongly recommended. AD PAGES 15, 59
WILDSIDE 4X4 TOURSwww.wildside4x4.com212 E. Elkhorn Ave.970-586-8687Thrilling off -road adventures in RMNP. We have the only convertible park tour trucks that go from open to warm and enclosed with sky views. In the Dairy Queen parking lot. AD PAGE 24
WEDDINGS
DELLA TERRA MOUNTAIN CHATEAUwww.DellaTerraMountainChateau.com3501 Fall River Rd.970-586-2501Exquisite wedding ceremony and reception venue with luxury suites beyond compare. Secluded mountain location. AD PAGES 65, 69
THE ESTES PARK RESORTwww.theestesparkresort.com1700 Big Thompson Ave.855-377-3778, 970-577-6400Exchange vows on the shores of Lake Estes or beneath vaulted ceilings in the Grand Ballroom. Wedding services include dinners, bridal showers, receptions and ceremonies. AD PAGE IFC
HISTORIC PARK THEATREwww.historicparktheatre.com130 Moraine Ave.970-586-8904Wedding ceremony & reception packages for up to 224 people. Use the theater, the lobby, or both for your special celebration. Piano on site. AD PAGE 25
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARK INNwww.RockyMountainParkInn.com101 S. St. Vrain Ave.844-744-5527, 970-586-2332Newly remodeled in 2017. Custom wedding and reception planners. Customized catering on site. Out-door patio. Indoor pool. Adjoined to Estes Park Conference Center. AD PAGES 68
WEDDINGS AT THE STANLEY HOTELwww.stanleyhotel.com/weddings333 E. Wonderview Ave.800-976-1377, 970-577-4265The panoramic views paired with historic charm and award-winning service makes this a premier destination for your once-in-a-lifetime event! AD PAGES 15, 59
find more ways to explore at www.visitestespark.com.
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7Beaver MeadowsVisitor Center (RMNP)
RMNP Entrance
Moraine ParkDiscovery Center (RMNP)
Fall RiverVisitor Center (RMNP)
Call 970-577-9900 for more information
Estes Park Visitor Center
Barlow Plaza
Performance Park
Park-n-Ride
Restroom
Visitor Center
Estes Park Town Hall
Rocky Mountain National Park
Legend
Estes Park Shuttle Routes
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) Shuttle Routes
(RMNP Entrance Fees Apply)
Blue Route and Stops
Brown Route and Stops
Red Route and Stops
Silver Route and Stops
Operating daily June 24 through September 10Gold, Blue, Red, and Silver Routes operate 9 a.m. through 8:59 p.m.
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Shuttles may be delayed by traffic,inclement weather, and wildlife.
Estes Park Medical Ctr.
RMNP Hiker Shuttle ExpressRMNP Shuttle Stops
Copyright C 2017 Town of Estes Park
A little over 1,100 riders a day use the shuttles in the summer!
Shuttle ridership equals approximately 30,000 fewer
resulting in reduced emissions & a cleaner environment.
Park
Events Center
Brodie Ave.
Association Dr.
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Routes and times subject to change.Visit www.estes.org/shuttles for up to the minute information.
-n-Ride
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SERVICE TIMESBROWN ROUTE: Starts at 8 a.m. with the final trip beginning at 8 p.m.
BLUE, RED, SILVER, & GOLD ROUTES: Start at 9 a.m. with the final trips beginning at 8:30 p.m.
The routes run continuous loops.Please note that shuttles can be delayed by traffic, weather, special events or wildlife.
CONNECT TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK HIKER SHUTTLEPark Entrance Fees ApplyCatch RMNP’s FREE Hiker Shuttle at the Estes Park Visitor Center or the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and enjoy the comfort and ease of traveling to Rocky Mountain National Park. For detailed RMNP shuttle and park information, call 970-586-1206 or go to www.nps.gov/romo.
HIKER SHUTTLE—Board the RMNP Hiker Shuttle at the Estes Park Visi tor Center or Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. Transfer to other buses at the Park and Ride on Bear Lake Rd. inside RMNP.
BEAR LAKE—Board the Bear Lake Shuttle at the Park & Ride on Bear Lake Rd. to access other stops.
MORAINE PARK—Board the Moraine Park Shuttle at the Park and Ride on Bear Lake Rd. to access other stops.
ESTES PARK FREE SHUTTLE INFORMATION
www.estes.org/shuttles Call: 970-577-9900
Visit: Estes Park Visitor Center
GOLD ROUTE (Trolley) HSTOPNO.
(The Trolley begins at 9 a.m. and runs continuously, ending at 8:59 p.m.)
1 Estes Park Visitor Center
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3 Local’s Grill
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8 Elkhorn Lodge
9 Mrs. Walsh’s Garden
10 The Grubsteak Restaurant
11 The Trading Post
12 Barlow Plaza
1 Estes Park Visitor Center
RED ROUTE HSTOPNO. LOCATION OF STOP DEPART TIME
1 Estes Park Visitor Center :00 :30
2 Timber Creek Chalets :08 :38
3 McGregor Mountain Lodge :10 :40
4 Fall River Visitor Center :12 :42
5 Estes Park Condos :14 :44
6 Aspen Winds on Fall River :15 :45
7 Homestead Ln. and Fall River Rd. :16 :46
8 Stonebrook Resort :16 :46
9 Nicky’s Motor Lodge :17 :47
1 Estes Park Visitor Center :30 :00
BLUE ROUTE HSTOPNO. LOCATION OF STOP DEPART TIME
1 Estes Park Visitor Center :00 :30
2 First Inn :02 :32
3 Best Western Plus Silver Saddle :03 :33
4 Comfort Inn :04 :34
5 Fajita Rita’s :05 :35
6 Lake Estes Marina :07 :37
7 West of Olympus Lodge :10 :40
8 Estes Park KOA :12 :42
9 Good Samaritan Estes Park Village :15 :45
10 Talons Pointe & Falcon Ridge Apartments :16 :46
11 Salud Family Health Center :16 :46
12 Crossroads Ministry :17 :47
13 Raven Ave. & Lone Pine Dr. :18 :48
14 Lake Front St. at Ranch Meadow :19 :49
15 Lower Stanley Village :22 :52
SILVER ROUTE HSTOPNO. LOCATION OF STOP DEPART TIME
1 Estes Park Visitor Center :00 :30
2 Stanley Hotel :03 :33
3 Estes Park Medical Center :10 :40
4 Estes Park Conference Center :12 :42
5 Solitude Cabins :19 :49
6 Community Drive and Graves Ave. :21 :51
7 Event Complex Park-n-Ride :22 :52
BROWN ROUTE HSTOPNO. LOCATION OF STOP TIME
1 Estes Park Visitor Center :00
2 Saddle & Surrey Motel :05
3 Mary’s Lake Lodge :09
4 Mary’s Lake Campground :10
5 National Park Village :15
6 Alpine Trail Ridge Inn :16
7 Elk Meadow Lodge & RV Park :18
8Eagle Cliff Rd. & Hwy. 66 (Valhalla Resort/Machin’s Cottages)
:19
9 Dunraven Inn :21
10 YMCA Hempel Auditorium :32
11 Glacier Lodge :35
12 Rockmount Cottages :36
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center (drop off by request only)
13 National Park Village :44
14 Mountain Shadows Resort :45
15 Riverside Dr. at Prospect Park Dr. (east of Worldmark) :48
16 Piccadilly Square :51
17 Barlow Plaza :53
PARK AND RIDE LOCATIONS Fairgrounds Park-n-Ride
1209 Manford Ave.
Estes Park Visitor Center500 Big Thompson Ave.
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PerformancePark
George HixRiverside Plaza
Stanley Park
Lake EstesMarina
Dog ParkBaldwin Park
Riverside Park
Children’s Park
Lake Estes Golf Course9-Hole Executive
Estes ParkMedical Center
Estes ParkEvents Complex
Event Center & Fairgrounds
Town HallPolice/Library
Estes ParkMuseum
Estes ParkConference Center
Estes ParkAquatic Center
Rocky Mountain National ParkBeaver Meadows Visitor Center
To Rocky Mountain National ParkFall River Visitor Center
To MacGregor Ranch Museum,Glen Haven, Lumpy Ridge
& Gem Lake Trailhead
Estes ParkVisitor Center
Tregent Park
18-Hole Estes Park Golf Course
Estes ParkPublic Schools
RIVERWALK
CentennialOpen Spaceat the Knoll-Willows
To Estes Park Center - YMCA of the Rockies
To Loveland &Fort Collins
To Boulder, Denver,I-25 & DIA
To Rocky Mountain National Park/Wild Basin,Allenspark & LyonsTo Rocky Mountain National Park
Scott Ponds Natural Area
© Map by Eureka Cartography, Berkeley, CA
Recreation Trail
Playground
Fishing
Dog Park
Aquatic Center
Rock Climbing
Marina/Boating
Post Office
Public Restroom
Picnic Area
Traffic Light
Medical Center
Parking
Golf Course
Park
School
LEGEND
MAP IS NOT TO SCALE
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Bond Park
PerformancePark
George HixRiverside Plaza
Stanley Park
Lake EstesMarina
Dog ParkBaldwin Park
Riverside Park
Children’s Park
Lake Estes Golf Course9-Hole Executive
Estes ParkMedical Center
Estes ParkEvents Complex
Event Center & Fairgrounds
Town HallPolice/Library
Estes ParkMuseum
Estes ParkConference Center
Estes ParkAquatic Center
Rocky Mountain National ParkBeaver Meadows Visitor Center
To Rocky Mountain National ParkFall River Visitor Center
To MacGregor Ranch Museum,Glen Haven, Lumpy Ridge
& Gem Lake Trailhead
Estes ParkVisitor Center
Tregent Park
18-Hole Estes Park Golf Course
Estes ParkPublic Schools
RIVERWALK
CentennialOpen Spaceat the Knoll-Willows
To Estes Park Center - YMCA of the Rockies
To Loveland &Fort Collins
To Boulder, Denver,I-25 & DIA
To Rocky Mountain National Park/Wild Basin,Allenspark & LyonsTo Rocky Mountain National Park
Scott Ponds Natural Area
© Map by Eureka Cartography, Berkeley, CA
Recreation Trail
Playground
Fishing
Dog Park
Aquatic Center
Rock Climbing
Marina/Boating
Post Office
Public Restroom
Picnic Area
Traffic Light
Medical Center
Parking
Golf Course
Park
School
LEGEND
MAP IS NOT TO SCALE
*Open seasonally, mid-May to mid-OctoberTrail Ridge Road Information Line: 970-586-1222
Offi cial Estes Park Visitor Guide
P.O. Box 44261200 Graves Avenue
Estes Park, CO 80517
www.VisitEstesPark.com
EditorAmity Moore Joyce
Art DirectorMyra Beckman
Contributing IllustratorEureka Cartography
Contributing PhotographersPaige Classen, Darren Edwards, Fall River Productions, James Frank, Richard H. Hahn, Eli Helmuth, Shannon Hudson, Images of Rocky Mountain National Park/Erik Strensland, Darcy Kiefel, Allen Kennedy, O’Hara Photography, Annette Slade, Biju Sukumaran, Jim Tanton, Ashley Tilly
Offi cial Estes Park Visitor Guidepublished by
Visit Estes ParkThe Destination Marketing Organization
President & CEO Elizabeth Fogarty
Director of Marketing & Public Relations Brooke Burnham
Director of Operations Suzy Blackhurst
Partners & Group Development Manager Abi Huebner
Content Coordinator Adam Concannon
Marketing Intern Josh Harms
Finance & Administration Manager Michael Bodman
Visit Estes Park has made every eff ort to ensure that all information in this guide is accurate and up-to-date. However, Visit Estes Park is not responsible for errors or omissions in the materials provided for inclusion in the guide. No recommendation regarding the quality of goods and services is expressed or implied. ©2017 by Visit Estes Park. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior consent of Visit Estes Park. Verify all rates and amenities. Contact events or advertisers to be sure dates and facilities have not changed.
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66
Will
ow
Cree
k
Chapin
Gor
ge
Big
Thompson
River
La
kes
Creek
North
Inlet
Cache l
a Poudre R
iver
Creek
Timber Lake
ForestLake
DoughnutLake
InkwellLake
AzureLake
JulianLake
HaynachLake
HaydenLake
LonesomeLake
RainbowLake
PtarmiganLake
BenchLake
GraniteFalls
CascadeFalls
HighestLake
Arrowhead Lake
CrystalLake
LawnLake
SpectacleLakes
Ypsilon Lake
ChasmFalls
ChiquitaLake
Marys Lake
LilyLake
West
Creek
Riv
er
Roaring
Cache la Poudre R
iver
Bridal Veil Falls
CubLake
FernFalls
ThePool
SpruceLake
MargueriteFalls
GraceFalls
Fern Lake
OdessaLake
LakeHelene
EmeraldLake
Nymph Lake
TheLoch
SkyPond
Pettingell Lake
LakeNokoni
AdamsFalls
Falls
Lake Nanita
LakeVerna
AdamsLake
LonePineLake
SpiritLake
FourthLake
FifthLake
Lake OfGlass
BlackLake
Peacock PoolChasm Lake
Columbine Falls
Copeland Lake
FrozenLake
Lion LakeNo 1
Lion LakeNo 2
Snowbank Lake
SandbeachLake
ThunderLake
PearLakeCony
Lake
FinchLake
BluebirdLake
OuzelLake
CalypsoCascades
OuzelFalls
CopelandFalls
BierstadtLake
DreamLake
AlbertaFalls
TimberlineFalls
RibbonFalls
TrioFalls
MillsLake
LakeHaiyaha
WestCreek
Falls
GemLake
Dry
Gu
lch
Fish
C
reek
Cow
Fall
River
Creek
Gla
cier C
reek
North St Vrain
Creek
Cony
Creek
Ouzel
Creek
Hutcheson Lakes
Roaring
East
Inlet
Fork
Mill
Bo
uld
er
Bro
ok
Creek
LAKE ESTES
RoweGlacier
TyndallGlacier
SpragueGlacier
AndrewsGlacier
Mills Glacier
TaylorGlacier
MoomawGlacier
St Vrain Glaciers
ROOSEVELT
NATIONAL
FOREST
R O O S E V E L T
N A T I O N A L
F O R E S T
R O O S E V E L T
N A T I O N A L
F O R E S T
I N D I A N P E A K S W I L D E R N E S S
2mi3km
4mi6km
3mi5km
6mi9km
1mi2km
3mi5km
2mi3km
19mi31km
2mi3km
4mi6km
5mi 8km
9mi 14km
Unpaved road
Hiking trail
Ranger station
Campground
Picnic area
Distanceindicator
Livery
Boat launch
Overlook
Continental Divide
Do not use this map for backcountry hiking.Buy topographic maps at visitor centers.
Telephone
Self-guidingnature trail
Wheelchair-accessible
Restrooms
Emergency telephone5mi8km
Road closed from here west to Colorado River Trailhead
mid-October to Memorial Day
One-way up only. Road open July 4–September.
MU
MM
Y
R AN G E
B L A C K
C A N Y O N
GLA
CIE
R G
OR
GE
TAH
OSA
VA
LLEY B
OU
LDER
F I
ELD
L U M P Y R I D G E HORSESHOE
PARK F OR E S T
C AN
Y ON
TR
AI L
RI D
GE
CANYON
BIGHORN FLATS
SPRUCE
MORAINE PARK
SummerlandPark
PIERSONPARK
HOLLOWELLPARK
North
0 1 2
0 1 2 3 Miles
3 Kilometers
North
Boundary
Lawn
Lake
Tra
il
Fern
Lake Trail
Ute
Trail
North Longs
Peak
Trail
Trail
Storm
Pass
East
Bluebird
Thunder Lake
Trail
Lake
Lon
gs
P
eak
Trail
Trail
Tonahutu
Nor
th
Inlet Trail
East
Inlet
Trail
Trail
Creek Divide Continental
National
Scenic
Trail
Ute T
rail
Flatto
p Mtn Trail
Trail
Ridge
Trail
Poudre R
iver
Tra
il
Devils
Marys Lake R
d
Bear Lake Rd
Gulch Road
Old Fall River Road
Trail
Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road
By-Pass
MacGregorAvenue
Beaver MeadowsVisitor Center
Moraine ParkDiscovery Center
AlpineVisitor Center
Fall RiverVisitor Center
Site ofEugenia Mine
Highest pointon road12183 ft3713 m
Iceberg Pass
Meeker Park
Allenspark
Cow Creek Trailhead
Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Lawn Lake Trailhead
Deer MtnTrailhead
Upper BeaverMeadows Trailhead
Hollowell Park Trailhead
Chapin CreekTrailhead
Cub LakeTrailhead
BierstadtLake
Trailhead
StormPass
Trailhead
GlacierGorge
Trailhead
GlacierBasin
Sprague LakeTrailhead
Wild BasinTrailhead (no water)
Olive Ridge
Bear LakeTrailhead
Lily Lake Trailhead
Park & Ride
YMCAConference
Center
Fern LakeTrailhead
Longs PeakTrailhead
SandbeachLakeTrailhead
Wild BasinEntrance Station(water available seasonally)
FinchLakeTrailhead
Winterrecreationparking
LongsPeakTents only
Tundra CommunitiesTrailhead
East InletTrailhead
West Portal
Many Parks Curve
Moraine Park
Rock Cut
ForestCanyon
Lava Cliffs
Fall River Pass
Alpine Ridge Trail
MedicineBowCurve
GoreRange
ESTES PARKBeaverMeadowsEntranceStation
Aspenglen
Sheep Lakes
Endovalley
AlluvialFan
RainbowCurve
HiddenValley
BeaverPonds West
Horseshoe Park
Deer RidgeJunction
East Portal
Continental D
ivide
Cont
inen
ta
l Divide
C O N S E R V A T I O N
E A S E M E N T
Seasonal
Open all yearPark Headquarters7840 ft / 2390 m
Fall RiverEntrance Station
8240 ft / 2511 m
SeasonalSnack bar
11796 ft3595 m
Twin Sisters Trailhead
LilyMountainTrailhead
(WILD
AND S
CEN
IC R
IVER
)
Dark Mountain10859 ft3310 m
The Needles10068 ft3069 m
The TwinOwls
Bighorn Mountain11463 ft3494 m
SheepMountain
Flatiron Mountain12335 ft3760 m
Fairchild Mountain13502 ft4115 m
Mount Chiquita13069 ft3983 m
Mount Chapin12454 ft3796 m
Ypsilon Mountain13514 ft4119 m
Desolation Peaks12949 ft3947m
Mummy Mountain13425ft4092m
Rowe Peak
Terra Tomah Mountain12718 ft3876 m
Mount Julian12928 ft3940 m
Mount Ida12880 ft3926 m
Sundance Mountain12466 ft3800 m
Stones Peak12922 ft3939 m
Nakai Peak12216 ft3723 m
Mount Patterson11424 ft3482 m
Snowdrift Peak12274 ft3741 m
Mount Adams12121 ft3694 m
Twin Peaks11957 ft3644 m
Mount Acoma10508 ft3203 m
Shadow Mountain10155 ft3095 m
Copeland Mountain13176 ft4016 m
Ogalalla Peak13138ft4004m
Watanga Mountain12375 ft3772 m
Andrews Peak12565 ft3830 m
Mount Craig12007 ft3660 m
Isolation Peak13118 ft3998 m
Ouzel Peak12716 ft3876 m
Mount Alice13310 ft4057 m Pilot
Mountain
TanimaPeak
Boulder-GrandPass
Powell Peak13208 ft4026 m
McHenrysPeak13327ft4062m
Storm Peak13326 ft4062 m
Longs Peak14259 ft4346 m
Chiefs HeadPeak13579 ft4139 m
MountLadyWashington
Taylor Peak13153 ft4009 m
OtisPeak Storm
Pass
Estes Cone1100 6ft3355 m
Mount Meeker13911 ft4240 m
Pagoda Mountain13497 ft4114 m
Mount Orton11724 ft3573 m
Flattop Mtn12324 ft3756 m
Hallett Peak12713 ft3875 m
Granite Pass
Twin Sisters Peaks11428 ft3483 m
Ptarmigan Mountain12324 ft3756 m
Thatchtop12668 ft3861 m
Deer Mtn10013 ft3052 m
Hagues Peak13560 ft4133 m
ProspectMountain
8900 ft2713 m
LilyMtn
9786 ft2983 m
Rams HornMountain9553 ft2912 m
MeadowMountain
11632 ft3545 m
St Vrain Mountain12162 ft3707 m
GianttrackMountain
9091 ft2771 m
Opp
osit
e: c
ourt
esy
of R
ocky
Mou
ntai
n N
atio
nal P
ark
*Open seasonally, mid-May to mid-OctoberTrail Ridge Road Information Line: 970-586-1222
Offi cial Estes Park Visitor Guide
P.O. Box 44261200 Graves Avenue
Estes Park, CO 80517
www.VisitEstesPark.com
EditorAmity Moore Joyce
Art DirectorMyra Beckman
Contributing IllustratorEureka Cartography
Contributing PhotographersPaige Classen, Darren Edwards, Fall River Productions, James Frank, Richard H. Hahn, Eli Helmuth, Shannon Hudson, Images of Rocky Mountain National Park/Erik Strensland, Darcy Kiefel, Allen Kennedy, O’Hara Photography, Annette Slade, Biju Sukumaran, Jim Tanton, Ashley Tilly
Offi cial Estes Park Visitor Guidepublished by
Visit Estes ParkThe Destination Marketing Organization
President & CEO Elizabeth Fogarty
Director of Marketing & Public Relations Brooke Burnham
Director of Operations Suzy Blackhurst
Partners & Group Development Manager Abi Huebner
Content Coordinator Adam Concannon
Marketing Intern Josh Harms
Finance & Administration Manager Michael Bodman
Visit Estes Park has made every eff ort to ensure that all information in this guide is accurate and up-to-date. However, Visit Estes Park is not responsible for errors or omissions in the materials provided for inclusion in the guide. No recommendation regarding the quality of goods and services is expressed or implied. ©2017 by Visit Estes Park. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior consent of Visit Estes Park. Verify all rates and amenities. Contact events or advertisers to be sure dates and facilities have not changed.
34
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7
34
34
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36
66
Will
ow
Cree
k
Chapin
Gor
ge
Big
Thompson
River
La
kes
Creek
North
Inlet
Cache l
a Poudre R
iver
Creek
Timber Lake
ForestLake
DoughnutLake
InkwellLake
AzureLake
JulianLake
HaynachLake
HaydenLake
LonesomeLake
RainbowLake
PtarmiganLake
BenchLake
GraniteFalls
CascadeFalls
HighestLake
Arrowhead Lake
CrystalLake
LawnLake
SpectacleLakes
Ypsilon Lake
ChasmFalls
ChiquitaLake
Marys Lake
LilyLake
West
Creek
Riv
er
Roaring
Cache la Poudre R
iver
Bridal Veil Falls
CubLake
FernFalls
ThePool
SpruceLake
MargueriteFalls
GraceFalls
Fern Lake
OdessaLake
LakeHelene
EmeraldLake
Nymph Lake
TheLoch
SkyPond
Pettingell Lake
LakeNokoni
AdamsFalls
Falls
Lake Nanita
LakeVerna
AdamsLake
LonePineLake
SpiritLake
FourthLake
FifthLake
Lake OfGlass
BlackLake
Peacock PoolChasm Lake
Columbine Falls
Copeland Lake
FrozenLake
Lion LakeNo 1
Lion LakeNo 2
Snowbank Lake
SandbeachLake
ThunderLake
PearLakeCony
Lake
FinchLake
BluebirdLake
OuzelLake
CalypsoCascades
OuzelFalls
CopelandFalls
BierstadtLake
DreamLake
AlbertaFalls
TimberlineFalls
RibbonFalls
TrioFalls
MillsLake
LakeHaiyaha
WestCreek
Falls
GemLake
Dry
Gu
lch
Fish
C
reek
Cow
Fall
River
Creek
Gla
cier C
reek
North St Vrain
Creek
Cony
Creek
Ouzel
Creek
Hutcheson Lakes
Roaring
East
Inlet
Fork
Mill
Bo
uld
er
Bro
ok
Creek
LAKE ESTES
RoweGlacier
TyndallGlacier
SpragueGlacier
AndrewsGlacier
Mills Glacier
TaylorGlacier
MoomawGlacier
St Vrain Glaciers
ROOSEVELT
NATIONAL
FOREST
R O O S E V E L T
N A T I O N A L
F O R E S T
R O O S E V E L T
N A T I O N A L
F O R E S T
I N D I A N P E A K S W I L D E R N E S S
2mi3km
4mi6km
3mi5km
6mi9km
1mi2km
3mi5km
2mi3km
19mi31km
2mi3km
4mi6km
5mi 8km
9mi 14km
Unpaved road
Hiking trail
Ranger station
Campground
Picnic area
Distanceindicator
Livery
Boat launch
Overlook
Continental Divide
Do not use this map for backcountry hiking.Buy topographic maps at visitor centers.
Telephone
Self-guidingnature trail
Wheelchair-accessible
Restrooms
Emergency telephone5mi8km
Road closed from here west to Colorado River Trailhead
mid-October to Memorial Day
One-way up only. Road open July 4–September.
MU
MM
Y
R AN G E
B L A C K
C A N Y O N
GLA
CIE
R G
OR
GE
TAH
OSA
VA
LLEY B
OU
LDER
F I
ELD
L U M P Y R I D G E HORSESHOE
PARK F OR E S T
C AN
Y ON
TR
AI L
RI D
GE
CANYON
BIGHORN FLATS
SPRUCE
MORAINE PARK
SummerlandPark
PIERSONPARK
HOLLOWELLPARK
North
0 1 2
0 1 2 3 Miles
3 Kilometers
North
Boundary
Lawn
Lake
Tra
il
Fern
Lake Trail
Ute
Trail
North Longs
Peak
Trail
Trail
Storm
Pass
East
Bluebird
Thunder Lake
Trail
Lake
Lon
gs
P
eak
Trail
Trail
Tonahutu
Nor
th
Inlet Trail
East
Inlet
Trail
Trail
Creek Divide Continental
National
Scenic
Trail
Ute T
rail
Flatto
p Mtn Trail
Trail
Ridge
Trail
Poudre R
iver
Tra
il
Devils
Marys Lake R
d
Bear Lake Rd
Gulch Road
Old Fall River Road
Trail
Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road
By-Pass
MacGregorAvenue
Beaver MeadowsVisitor Center
Moraine ParkDiscovery Center
AlpineVisitor Center
Fall RiverVisitor Center
Site ofEugenia Mine
Highest pointon road12183 ft3713 m
Iceberg Pass
Meeker Park
Allenspark
Cow Creek Trailhead
Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Lawn Lake Trailhead
Deer MtnTrailhead
Upper BeaverMeadows Trailhead
Hollowell Park Trailhead
Chapin CreekTrailhead
Cub LakeTrailhead
BierstadtLake
Trailhead
StormPass
Trailhead
GlacierGorge
Trailhead
GlacierBasin
Sprague LakeTrailhead
Wild BasinTrailhead (no water)
Olive Ridge
Bear LakeTrailhead
Lily Lake Trailhead
Park & Ride
YMCAConference
Center
Fern LakeTrailhead
Longs PeakTrailhead
SandbeachLakeTrailhead
Wild BasinEntrance Station(water available seasonally)
FinchLakeTrailhead
Winterrecreationparking
LongsPeakTents only
Tundra CommunitiesTrailhead
East InletTrailhead
West Portal
Many Parks Curve
Moraine Park
Rock Cut
ForestCanyon
Lava Cliffs
Fall River Pass
Alpine Ridge Trail
MedicineBowCurve
GoreRange
ESTES PARKBeaverMeadowsEntranceStation
Aspenglen
Sheep Lakes
Endovalley
AlluvialFan
RainbowCurve
HiddenValley
BeaverPonds West
Horseshoe Park
Deer RidgeJunction
East Portal
Continental D
ivide
Cont
inen
ta
l Divide
C O N S E R V A T I O N
E A S E M E N T
Seasonal
Open all yearPark Headquarters7840 ft / 2390 m
Fall RiverEntrance Station
8240 ft / 2511 m
SeasonalSnack bar
11796 ft3595 m
Twin Sisters Trailhead
LilyMountainTrailhead
(WILD
AND S
CEN
IC R
IVER
)
Dark Mountain10859 ft3310 m
The Needles10068 ft3069 m
The TwinOwls
Bighorn Mountain11463 ft3494 m
SheepMountain
Flatiron Mountain12335 ft3760 m
Fairchild Mountain13502 ft4115 m
Mount Chiquita13069 ft3983 m
Mount Chapin12454 ft3796 m
Ypsilon Mountain13514 ft4119 m
Desolation Peaks12949 ft3947m
Mummy Mountain13425ft4092m
Rowe Peak
Terra Tomah Mountain12718 ft3876 m
Mount Julian12928 ft3940 m
Mount Ida12880 ft3926 m
Sundance Mountain12466 ft3800 m
Stones Peak12922 ft3939 m
Nakai Peak12216 ft3723 m
Mount Patterson11424 ft3482 m
Snowdrift Peak12274 ft3741 m
Mount Adams12121 ft3694 m
Twin Peaks11957 ft3644 m
Mount Acoma10508 ft3203 m
Shadow Mountain10155 ft3095 m
Copeland Mountain13176 ft4016 m
Ogalalla Peak13138ft4004m
Watanga Mountain12375 ft3772 m
Andrews Peak12565 ft3830 m
Mount Craig12007 ft3660 m
Isolation Peak13118 ft3998 m
Ouzel Peak12716 ft3876 m
Mount Alice13310 ft4057 m Pilot
Mountain
TanimaPeak
Boulder-GrandPass
Powell Peak13208 ft4026 m
McHenrysPeak13327ft4062m
Storm Peak13326 ft4062 m
Longs Peak14259 ft4346 m
Chiefs HeadPeak13579 ft4139 m
MountLadyWashington
Taylor Peak13153 ft4009 m
OtisPeak Storm
Pass
Estes Cone1100 6ft3355 m
Mount Meeker13911 ft4240 m
Pagoda Mountain13497 ft4114 m
Mount Orton11724 ft3573 m
Flattop Mtn12324 ft3756 m
Hallett Peak12713 ft3875 m
Granite Pass
Twin Sisters Peaks11428 ft3483 m
Ptarmigan Mountain12324 ft3756 m
Thatchtop12668 ft3861 m
Deer Mtn10013 ft3052 m
Hagues Peak13560 ft4133 m
ProspectMountain
8900 ft2713 m
LilyMtn
9786 ft2983 m
Rams HornMountain9553 ft2912 m
MeadowMountain
11632 ft3545 m
St Vrain Mountain12162 ft3707 m
GianttrackMountain
9091 ft2771 m
Opp
osit
e: c
ourt
esy
of R
ocky
Mou
ntai
n N
atio
nal P
ark
Fly Fishing &
Mountain Adventures
Visit our store at 230 East Elkhorn Avenue—just down from the DQ877.669.1859 | 970.577.0790 | www.kirksfl yshop.com | www.kirksmountainadventures.com
Guided Fly Fishing, Day Hikes, Snowshoe Trips, and
Overnight Backpack, Llama Pack and Horseback Trips
in Rocky Mountain National Park
Kirks Flyshop & Mountain AdventuresWe are a full pro-line fl y shop and mountain adventure company, off ering
Guided Fly Fishing Day Trips, Private Water Trips, Overnight Backpacking Trips, Horseback and Llama Pack Trips, Day Hikes, Longs Peak Trips, Snowshoe Trips and more in Rocky Mountain National Park and
the surrounding Estes Valley.
Rental Gear, Top Brand Fly Fishing Gear, Outdoor Gear and Clothing! Fishing Licenses and Bear Canisters!
Call today to book your private tour!Everyone Welcome!