Before sending the kids back to school this fall, enjoy one last family vacation in Estes Park! Or, just bring the homework on the road for a nice weekend vacation the whole family can enjoy as fall weather takes over Colorado. Though, the fall foliage should be enough to tempt you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Wildlife viewing. Estes Park’s Rocky Mountain National Park is home to bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer, and other big animals. As one of the country’s top wildlife watching destinations, we highly encourage our guests to schedule some time for wildlife viewing. We understand the good intentions behind wanting to feed the animals, but please refrain from doing so. Not only is it an illegal activity in all national parks, by feeding the animals they become dependent on humans and are less likely to survive on their own natural instincts. Keep the snacks for the kids!

Biking. If you’ve got the need for speed, check out the biking trails and bike rentals to get you around Fish Creek Loop or Devil’s Gulch Loop. There are more difficult trails for experienced bikers looking to climb higher into the Rocky Mountains but there are also local bike paths that are perfect for family trips into town.

Take a treat parade. A simple stroll down Elkhorn Avenue will make you want to indulge in your sweet tooth! From Flavors of the Rockies ice cream shop to Shakes Alive you’ll find a sweet treat for everyone in the family. Our downtown is a popular spot to find fudge, ice cream, and crepes and we promise you won’t be disappointed by the variety of options. If you want a bit more kick in your dessert, don’t forget to try Estes Park’s own Snowy Peaks Winery’s  dessert wines: Orange or Black Muscat!

Go fore it. Want to golf in one of the top 10 most beautiful places in the United States to play? Estes Park’s got your golfing covered. Between the beautiful Estes Park Golf Course and Pro Shop or Lake Estes Executive Golf Course, there are plenty of options for golfers of all skill levels. For our guests that just want to have silly fun on the golf course, be sure to check out our variety of mini golf courses, especially great for the younger golfers!

Take a Photo Safari. What’s one of the best things from your vacation? The photos to share with your family and friends, of course! For professional and amateur photographers, or anyone who just enjoys the beautiful vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park, we recommend the Photo Safari by Green Jeep Tours. This two-hour tour includes a guide and stops to the Stanley Hotel, Bear Lake, Moraine Park, and more. Schedule your tour by calling 970-577-0034 or visit their website.

There’s no shortage of fun in the fall in Estes Park, but one activity many of our guests seem to love: enjoying the changing colors from a warm and private jetted tub! If that sounds like your fall vacation, check out our Fawn Valley Inn for suites and condos with jetted tubs.

Tell us your favorite fall Estes Park activity over on our Facebook page!