The Best Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado in 2026
LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT ESTES PARK, COLORADO?
Located in the Colorado Rockies, Estes Park is known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s also a charming mountain town with cozy cabins, fun shops, unique restaurants, and plenty to do outside the park.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or a longer stay, this guide covers some of the best things to do in Estes Park, where to stay, tips for visiting, and the best times of year to go.
I have many memories of visiting Estes Park over the years, and it never disappoints. There is so much to see and do, and even a day trip can be amazing if that’s all you have time for during your visit to Colorado.
Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado
You can enjoy scenic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, shop downtown, spot wildlife, and enjoy local restaurants. There are plenty of things to do in Estes Park. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a few nights, you’ll have no trouble filling your time in this Colorado mountain town.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Just a short drive from the town of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Colorado and a must-see when visiting the area.
During the busiest times of year, you may need a timed-entry reservation to enter certain areas of the park. It’s a good idea to plan and check the current requirements before your trip, especially if you’re visiting during the summer or early fall.
There are plenty of ways to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, whether you want to hike, take a scenic drive, look for wildlife, or simply stop at some of the overlooks. I’ve hiked in the park before, and there are trails for different experience levels and abilities.
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still experience much of the park from your car. Trail Ridge Road is one of the highlights, with scenic overlooks and places to stop along the way. Keep in mind that Trail Ridge Road is seasonal and typically closes during the winter months. The park itself doesn’t close.
Downtown Estes Park
Estes Park feels like a town straight out of the movies. The downtown area is quaint and walkable, with cute shops, plenty of restaurants, and lots of great spots to stop for photos.
You’ll find everything from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, along with sweet shops, souvenir stores, and locally owned boutiques. It’s fun to explore during most seasons of the year, although some times are definitely busier than others. Even if you don’t have anything specific planned, it’s easy to spend a few hours just walking around and seeing what you find.
Wildlife Viewing
Estes Park is a great place to see wildlife! And you don’t have to be inside Rocky Mountain National Park to spot it. You may see deer, elk, and other wildlife while driving through the area or simply walking along the paths near town.
I’ve seen wildlife on many of my visits, and it’s always exciting when you come across an elk or deer when you aren’t expecting it. Just remember that these are wild animals. Enjoy watching and taking photos from a safe distance, and never approach or feed them.
Stanley Hotel Tour
This beautiful historic hotel, which sits above the town of Estes Park, is a Colorado icon and worth visiting even if you aren’t staying overnight. You can explore some of the hotel’s public areas, dine at one of the restaurants, attend special events, or take a tour to learn more about its history and famous ghost stories.
I’ve taken two different tours of the Stanley, and each one gave me a chance to discover something new about the hotel and its history. The Stanley is also famously associated with Stephen King’s The Shining, which adds another fun element to a visit.
Check the tour schedule; they have several options, and purchase tickets in advance if there’s a particular tour you’d like to take.
Lake Estes
Lake Estes is another beautiful place to spend some time while visiting Estes Park. Depending on the season, you can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or simply walking along the path around the lake.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you don’t have to get out on the water. You can take a walk, enjoy the mountain views, have a picnic, or keep an eye out for wildlife around the lake.
Outdoor Adventures
If you enjoy being outdoors, you won’t run out of things to do in Estes Park. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park on your own or join a guided tour. You can go hiking, horseback riding, fishing or fly-fishing, biking, rock climbing, or explore the many walking paths around town. During the warmer months, you can also get out on the water with activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding.
For something a little less strenuous, take a scenic drive, join a Jeep tour, or ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. The tram takes you to the top of Prospect Mountain for panoramic views.
Festivals and Events
Estes Park offers many festivals and special events throughout the year, so it’s worth checking what’s happening during your visit. You’ll find everything from rodeos and live music to food festivals, races, art shows, and some very unique community celebrations.
A few of the annual events include Frozen Dead Guy Days, Bigfoot Days, the Rooftop Rodeo, Elk Fest, and various wine, music, and holiday events. Dates and events can change from year to year, so check the Visit Estes Park events calendar when planning your trip.
Where To Stay In Estes Park
Estes Park has plenty of places to stay for different budgets and travel styles, including hotels and motels, cozy cabins and cottages, bed-and-breakfasts, mountain lodges and resorts, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. I’ve stayed in several different types of accommodations here over the years, from a basic budget hotel to a cozy bed-and-breakfast and the historic Stanley Hotel.
The Stanley Hotel
If you’d like to experience more of the Stanley, you can also stay overnight. I stayed at the hotel many years ago, and it was definitely a memorable part of my Estes Park trip. At the time, they even had a dedicated TV channel playing The Shining.
The Stanley is a good option if you enjoy historic hotels and want your accommodations to be part of the experience rather than simply a place to sleep. Its location above the town also puts you close to downtown Estes Park and within easy reach of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Tips for Visiting Estes Park
Decide ahead of time how you want to explore Estes Park, whether you drive yourself or take a guided tour. Having your own car gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace and spend more time at the places that interest you. A tour, however, can be a great option if you don’t want to drive in the mountains or would rather have someone else handle the transportation and itinerary.
How to Handle Altitude
If you’re visiting Estes Park from a lower elevation, you may notice the higher altitude, especially during physical activities such as hiking. Give yourself some time to adjust rather than trying to pack too much activity into your first day.
A few simple things that may help you feel more comfortable include:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Take it slow, especially when hiking or walking uphill.
- Take breaks when you need them.
- Give yourself time to adjust before doing more strenuous activities.
- Remember that you’ll climb to even higher elevations if you head into Rocky Mountain National Park.
Even though I live in Colorado, I can still notice the elevation when I’m hiking at higher altitudes.
What to Pack for Estes Park
No matter what time of year you visit Estes Park, it’s a good idea to pack layers. Mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures can be quite different from what you experience in Denver or other lower elevations. Even on a warm day, mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially if you head into Rocky Mountain National Park.
A few things you may want to bring include:
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
- Layers you can easily add or remove
- A light jacket or rain jacket
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- A reusable water bottle
- A hat
- A small daypack if you’re heading into the national park
In the colder months, you’ll need warmer layers, a winter coat, gloves, and appropriate footwear for snow or icy conditions.
Getting Around Estes Park
Having a car is one of the easiest ways to get around Estes Park. It gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park or attractions outside the downtown area.
Once you’re downtown, however, I find Estes Park very easy to explore on foot. I do a lot of walking when I visit, and the shops, restaurants, Riverwalk, and other downtown attractions are close enough that you don’t need to drive from place to place.
There is also a large free parking garage near downtown, making it easy to park and explore on foot. During the busier months, Estes Park offers seasonal shuttles that can help you get around town without worrying about parking.
If you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, check the park’s current shuttle and transportation information before your trip, as availability and requirements can change throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Estes Park
Every season has its benefits, and the best time to visit Estes Park depends on what you want to do while you’re there. Summer means warmer weather and more activities, while the quieter seasons offer fewer crowds and a completely different mountain experience.
Spring
Spring in Estes Park is a transition season as the snow begins to melt away and warmer days return. You may start seeing more greenery and wildlife, but don’t assume winter is completely over. Snow is still possible well into spring. In Colorado, we often joke that you shouldn’t plant flowers before Mother’s Day because there’s always a chance of another snowstorm!
Spring can be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind unpredictable weather. Pack layers and check the forecast before you go.
Summer
Summer brings warmer temperatures and is one of the busiest times of year in Estes Park. It’s a great season for hiking, exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, spending time at Lake Estes, and enjoying the many festivals and outdoor activities around town.
With the beautiful weather also come larger crowds, so plan ahead for accommodations and Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re visiting popular attractions, reservations may be necessary.
Fall
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Estes Park, with cooler temperatures and changing leaves throughout the mountains. It’s also a popular time for seeing elk, especially during the fall rut.
While the summer crowds begin to decrease, there are still plenty of visitors in Estes Park. Fall colors and wildlife bring plenty of visitors of their own. Temperatures can also change quickly, so bring layers and be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings.
Winter
Winter offers a quieter side of Estes Park. You’ll find fewer crowds, snow-covered mountain scenery, and a much different atmosphere than during the busy summer months.
Cold temperatures and snow can make driving and outdoor activities more challenging, so check road and weather conditions before heading into the mountains. If you’re comfortable with winter conditions, though, this can be a beautiful time to experience Estes Park without the peak-season crowds.
Is Estes Park Good for Solo Travel?
Estes Park is a great place for solo travel! It’s a relatively small, welcoming town with plenty to do on your own. If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are also tours from Denver that allow you to explore the area with other travelers.
I’ve enjoyed taking a couple of solo day trips to Estes Park and have easily filled an entire day with activities. I’ve walked around town, taken a tour of the Stanley Hotel, enjoyed a nice meal along the main street, and explored some of the area’s walking paths. I’ve always felt comfortable exploring Estes Park on my own.
Final thoughts on Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado
For a small mountain town, Estes Park has so much to see and do. With Rocky Mountain National Park right next door and a charming downtown that feels like something out of a movie, it’s easy to see why so many people enjoy visiting.
I love that there is such a variety of things to do here. You can hike in the national park, look for wildlife, explore downtown, visit the Stanley Hotel, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery. Whether you’re visiting with family, as a couple, or traveling solo, Estes Park is a Colorado destination that’s worth experiencing.
Thinking about taking a solo trip of your own? Grab my free Solo Starter Travel Kit for practical tips and resources to help you plan your trip and travel with more confidence.
