The 10 best things to do in Estes Park

What is it? The park is just minutes outside the gateway of Estes Park, covering 415 square miles of breathtaking protected mountain wilderness.
Why go? With more than 300 miles of trails, panoramic vistas of snowcapped peaks, picturesque meadows, valleys, and meandering rivers, and Trail Ridge Road (the highest continuous paved road in the United States, hitting 12,183 feet in elevation), the choose-your-own-adventure options are endless. Hike it, bike it, fish it, climb it, drive it, camp it, photograph it…or all of the above.

What is it? If there’s one iconic place to stay in Estes Park, this striking red-roofed landmark, on the National Register of Historic Places, is it. The restored behemoth overlooks town in a perpetual state of grandeur.
Why go? Ever read The Shining? A one-night stay at The Stanley inspired Stephen King to write the bestselling masterpiece, and the television adaptation was filmed there. You don’t have to be a guest to visit; try the guided Night Spirit Tour…if you dare.

What is it? This idyllic paved trail runs along the banks of the Big Thompson River as it babbles through downtown Estes Park along Elkhorn Avenue, meandering past shops, eateries, and galleries.
Why go? Estes Park tends to get crowded in the warmer months, and strolling the Riverwalk is a neat alternative to elbowing through the throngs drifting in and out of the touristy storefronts. It lets you traverse the downtown and still retreat to a riverside patio for lunch or a cool beverage.

What is it? This Estes Park outfitter is your key to a behind-the-scenes deep-dive—think wildlife safari or seasonal photo safari—in the spectacular wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Why go? Whether you want to maximize your wildlife sightings, develop phenomenal nature photography skills, or get a front row seat during the elk rutting rituals that the Estes Park region is known for, Yellow Wood proprietor and naturalist Jared Gricoskie is your guy for private hiking, snowshoeing, or SUV tours.

What is it? The stables will hook you up with a steed for trail rides in Rocky Mountain National Park, pony rides for the littlest guys, and horse-drawn hayrides that include family-friendly stuff like marshmallow roasting and entertainment by Estes Park’s Singing Cowboy.
Why go? The Rockies on horseback. Need we say more? OK, fine: Cowboy up (all day or just for an hour) to explore glacial basins, meandering rivers, alpine wildlife, blooming wildflowers, pristine lakes, and aspen forests, all from your perch in the saddle.

What is it: Celebrating its centennial this year, this 55-mile stretch of road—the oldest scenic byway in Colorado—runs from Estes Park to the Victorian-era mining town of Central City.
Why go? The recreation options and historical riches along the byway make for a fantastic way to beat—or rather, leave behind—the crowds in Rocky Mountain National Park. The road winds through a wilderness area, national forest, and state park, hitting quirky mountain hamlets, alpine lakes, countless trailheads, and ghost towns along the way.

What is it: Opened in 1955 and running roughly Memorial through Labor Day, the tram to the summit of Prospect Mountain was modeled after “free span” European versions that run the entire length of cable between the top and bottom stations, without supporting towers in between.
Why go? Want the mountain summit experience without the actual, you know, work? (Nobody’s judging.) This is a cool way to do it. Awesome views all around, plus a few trails and a café at the top.

What is it? Think of it as ziplining 2.0: A 32-element course—including aerial tightropes, swinging logs, rope bridges, and shifting platforms—that lets you climb, swing, leap, maneuver, and traverse the challenges up to 21 feet above the ground.
Why go? Calling all daredevils: This is your happy place. You get 90 minutes of self-guided exploring (yes, you’re harnessed in) to work your way through the obstacles. Staff are on the course—but you’re on your own adventure up there.

What is it? Both new within the past few years, these craft breweries set up shop after previously restrictive zoning codes changed, rounding out the town’s once-limited artisan booze options.
Why go? There’s nothing better than a cold one after a long day on the trail. Lumpy Ridge, housed in a repurposed gas station, serves its pours with a side of funky Americana, and Rock Cut is the perfect pit stop on your way out of Rocky Mountain National Park. Bonus: Food trucks!

What is it? Estes Park’s first and only (legal) distiller opened in 2016 right across from the shores of Lake Estes, and has been impressing patrons with its medal-winning white corn whiskey ever since.
Why go? It’s the Wild West—whiskey slugging is a rite of passage! The friendly owners know their spirits; take a distillery tour, then sip it straight for true local flavor, or order from a thoughtful cocktail menu. Try the Old Fashioned or The Dude.