Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park seem to have been specially crafted for vacationers who want more from their winter Colorado travel than just downhill skiing and lift rides back up a mountain. Here you’ll find hundreds of miles trails ideal for cross country skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, hiking or snowshoeing on trails that are protected because they lie within the boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park. However if you want all this and still yearn for the downhill ski experience, you can drive an hour south along the ridge road to the Eldora Ski Resort. At Estes Park, you can have your cake and eat it too.
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains have something for everyone and Estes Park is no exception. If you’re into seeing all the mountain splendor in winter be sure to bring along your camera to record the splendor before you Then too, there’s always the possibility that you’ll get to see and photograph some of the local wildlife which includes golden eagles, big horn sheep, mule deer elk and even an occasional peregrine falcon, the world’s fastest bird. Take in all this beauty at the pace you prefer. All the crowds are at the ski resorts, not here. Hiking in the national park is attainable even in winter as the park rangers keep trails at he lower elevations open unless heavy snows prevent it.
Estes Park lies at an elevation of 7,522 feet above sea level. The highest point in the area, however, is Long’s Peak on the Continental Divide at over 14,250 feet. Many guided tours are available or you can drive your own car and set your own direction and timetable.
In town, you will see and enjoy some unique artists’ galleries where you can enjoy the paintings and perhaps purchase a future masterpiece. People are warm and friendly since you are a long way from the crowded ski resort scene. Town folk will make an extra effort to welcome you and make you feel comfortable. This seems to be the standard ambiance in most Colorado mountain communities all year long.
Expect a full range of lodging and eateries in Estes Park. Choose from bed & breakfasts, condos, chalets, cabins and hotel rooms. They’re all here. Simply contact the Estes Park Visitor’s Center at 1-800-44-ESTES for all the help you’ll need to plan an unforgettable winter vacation.
If you are planning to visit this season, visit Estes Park Lodging for discounts and savings.
