Summer & Fall Activities Guide to Estes Park

Once the snow melts, the warm Colorado sun gives way to a host of summer activities in Estes Park, Colorado.  The aspen trees are a vibrant green, the mountains are majestic ragged peaks and the trails are alive with wildflowers, bikers and hikers. The summer is considered the high season in Estes Park.  Starting Memorial Day weekend to about mid October you can expect crowds.  The bright sunny days, dry air and cooler temperatures makes Estes Park a wonderful get away from the heat and humidity of home.

Rocky Mountain National Park remains the big draw offering hundreds of miles of trails and roads to explore and experience animal encounters, sweeping mountain views and wildflowers.  You can hike on your own or check out the numerous professional guides and tour companies in the area.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The draw to Estes Park, Colorado is clearly Rocky Mountain National Park.  Enjoy a scenic drive up Trail Ridge Road or the old historic Old Fall River Road (a one-way, car only gravel road).  Once at the top, you’ll find the Alpine Visitors Center situated at 11,796′ above sea level!  You will be delighted with spectacular views from along North America’s highest paved road.  But be sure to bring warmer clothes.  The temperature difference can be more than 20 degrees cooler than when you left town.  With pull outs along the way, Trail Ridge Road provides access to Rocky Mountain National Park’s network of hiking trails, interpretive walking paths and sweeping vista views!

Rocky National National Park is open year round with a required timed entry from Memorial Day Weekend through October.   Trail Ridge Road is open to cars up to Many Curves Road.  Weather permitting, it will open to Rainbow Curve sometime in the month of May.  Click here to learn more and explore!

Visit Grand Lake

With the opening of Trail Ridge Road in May, this opens up the adventure to travel across the continental divide and explore the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park.  There you will find the charming town of Grand Lake, a classic mountain town that delivers big adventure, stunning scenery, and small-town charm year-round. As Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake, Grand Lake is a dream destination for travelers looking to unplug, explore the outdoors, and experience authentic Rocky Mountain hospitality.

Hiking

In addition to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park has trails from easy 30 minute walks to longer trails such as the 5.1 mile Limber Pine Trail in Hermit Park Open Space.  To search for local trails, visit Estes Park Trail Guide, for a printable PDF. This gives in depth directions and descriptions of the local trails.  Even the dog friendly ones too!   When hiking in Colorado, be prepared.  With the altitude and bluebird sky, the sun can be fierce.  Take an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen, sunglasses, lots of water and leave no trace! Consider your carbon footprint too.

Guided Hikes & Tours

With the abundance of trails throughout Rocky Mountain National Park and the timed entry system, consider hiring a local guide to take you into the park and explore the trails.  There are several companies that offer amazing trips such as the Purple Points Tour Company.  Their one of a kind vans have retractable glass roofs, giving you climate control and amazing views.

Horseback Riding

What better way to explore the Colorado mountains than on horseback!  Be a cowboy (or cowgirl) for a day with one of the many outfitters Estes Park has to offer.  Outfitters like S&K Stables offer 2, 4 and 7 hour trail rides through Rocky Mountain National Park.  Their guides and horses are professional and make for a fun family adventure.  Another option is Jackson Stables.  Located at the YMCA of the Rockies, you can schedule 1, 2 and 3 hours trail rides in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking is an awesome adventure especially, if moving faster on the trails is your thing.  Estes Park and neighboring Lyons is your destination for exploring the summer trails.  There are numerous beginner / intermediate trails for visitors new to mountain biking.

The one bucket list spot for mountain bikers’ bragging rights is in Rocky Mountain National Park along Old Fall River Road. Once open for the summer, this is a cars-only, one-way gravel road that climbs to the Alpine Visitor Center at 11,796′.  Mountain bikers flock to this iconic ride for the challenging switchbacks before and after the seasonal vehicle period to take advantage of the amazing views and unique experience. To search for local trails, visit MTBProject.  There are many local bike shops that rent mountain bikes and give great trail advice.

Cycling

Cycling is another popular summer activity in Estes Park. The Lake Estes Bike Path is a dedicated paved path with stunning views.  You can pedal at a leisurely pace along this 3.75-mile loop.  You can rent a bike at a local bike shop.  They will help show you which bike best fits you.

Camping

Camping in Estes is an experience! Step away from the comforts of a VRBO and try camping in Rocky Mountain National Park or in one of the many surrounding camp grounds.  You will wake up to the crisp Colorado air and dine al fresco at your campfire.  It’s an experience like no other. rental gear is available in town at many shops.

Festivals

Summer festivals are a fun form of entertainment in Estes Park.  July hosts the Roof Top Rodeo and the 4th of July Fireworks.   The Longs Peak Scottish Highlands Festival is one of the most popular events in September and then of course Elk Fest the end of the month, two great weekends to build your vacation around. Outdoor concerts are a regular event at Bond Park in town or venues throughout the town such as The Rock Inn or the Stanley Hotel.