Estes Park is a beautiful mountain getaway, nestled in the foothills of northwestern Colorado near Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can spot elk regularly wandering the streets. It’s a scenic hub for many visitors wanting to explore the park. The small town, which is just under seven square miles, is home to over 6,000 residents, and great local restaurants and breweries.

This area has cultural roots dating back to the Arapaho and Sioux tribes, the original custodians of this land. Pioneers, hunters, and inventors eventually followed, and many of the buildings they erected are still standing as historical markers to this past.

The natural landscape surrounding Estes Park is known for its lush hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and phenomenal stargazing. If you pass through in the wintertime, you’ll find the locals skiing, snowshoeing, or staying in a cozy Estes Park condo rental.

The Denver International Airport (DIA) is only an hour and a half drive to Estes Park. Taxis, buses, and shuttles are also available to take riders from Denver to the Rocky Mountains. After arriving in Estes Park, free shuttles can take you to explore the area — they operate from late May through mid-October.

Renting a car allows you to explore the scenery at your own pace. Some of the most memorable drives are through the Rocky Mountain National Park or the Estes Valley. If you’re looking for a unique way to see Estes Park, try out tours on a four-wheel drive, helicopter, or guided hike.

If you’re looking for water sports, the best time to visit Estes Park is from June to September. This is prime time to go whitewater rafting or take a boat out on the water as the weather is mild and dry. Other summer activities include hiking, biking, and climbing.

Winter in the Rocky Mountains is extraordinary but the rural roads are not for the faint of heart. You can still visit the Rocky Mountains during winter, but be prepared to drive on snowy, winding mountain roads that can be tricky to navigate. While average winter temperatures are below freezing, this is also the perfect climate to go snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing. Regardless of which season you visit, there’s a home rental in Estes Park, Colorado waiting for you.

Estes Park Riverwalk

This mile-long, tree-lined path runs along the Big Thompson River on the backside of Elkhorn Avenue, downtown’s main street. Start from Estes Park Visitor Center and discover mom-and-pop shops, patio bars, and local coffee shops which offer direct access from the trail. As you walk, try to spot the 12 bronze statues of pikas (cute mountain-dwelling animals) which are part of a local scavenger hunt.

Cycling

Take an open-air ride through the famous Rocky Mountain National Park with experienced mountain cyclists as your guide. The tours can last anywhere from three to eight hours, depending on your experience level. Book a tour in advance with a local outfitter, who can provide the bicycle, helmet, water, and snacks.

Park Theater

Built in 1913, this theater is one of the oldest operating motion picture theaters in the country. Watch everything from blockbuster films to documentaries here while fueling up on sandwiches and beer from the snack bar. Fun fact: the theatre has an 80-foot neon sign on the front of the building which required the city’s special permission to use.