Estes Park sits at an exhilarating 7,522 feet above sea level—and you’re going to feel it! Between the breathtaking scenery and thinner air, it’s an unforgettable experience. But if you’re not ready for the altitude change, your adventure could hit some unexpected bumps. No worries—these quick Estes Park altitude tips (plus a heads-up on elevation-heavy areas) will keep you soaring.
Hydrate Like a Champ
The dry, high-altitude air means your body loses moisture faster. Start drinking water even before you arrive and keep it flowing throughout the day. Hydration is your #1 defense against altitude sickness!
Ease Into It—Especially on Day One
Tempted to race up to Emerald Lake or scramble Twin Sisters Peaks right away? Hold up! Start your trip with an easy stroll around downtown Estes Park or a gentle walk around Lake Estes. Let your body get used to the thinner air before tackling tougher trails.
Fuel Up Wisely
High-carb meals are your friend in the mountains. Think hearty breakfasts and trail snacks like granola bars and fruit. Keeping your energy up will make a huge difference, especially on those longer hikes.
Watch Out for High-Elevation Hikes
While Estes Park itself is high, many of the best trails shoot you even higher—and fast. Some popular spots to be altitude-smart about include:
- Bear Lake Trailhead (9,475 ft): Great for beginners, but even short walks like Nymph Lake or Dream Lake can leave you breathless!
- Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge (10,900+ ft): A stunning but challenging trek with serious elevation gain.
- Chasm Lake Trail (11,800 ft): A demanding adventure with incredible views of Longs Peak’s towering face.
- Twin Sisters Peaks (11,428 ft): A relentless climb with huge rewards—but you’ll definitely feel the altitude creeping up.
Pace Yourself Like a Pro
Slow down, breathe deeply, and rest often. Even seasoned hikers can get winded faster up here. No shame in pausing—besides, it gives you more time to soak in the unbelievable views.
Be Altitude-Aware
Watch for headaches, dizziness, or nausea—classic signs of altitude sickness. Rest, hydrate, and if needed, head to lower ground like the valley floor near Moraine Park.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging to enjoy after a Rocky Mountain National Park adventure. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
Few sights in the wild rival the majesty of a bighorn sheep perched on a rocky ledge, surveying its rugged domain. If you’re heading to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and hoping to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, you’re in for a treat! Here’s everything you need to know to increase your chances of spotting bighorn sheep in RMNP.
Sheep Lakes
Arguably the most famous bighorn sheep viewing area in RMNP, Sheep Lakes is a prime location to see these animals, especially in the spring and early summer. Located in Horseshoe Park, this area provides lush meadows where bighorns often descend to graze and drink water. Rangers sometimes close the area to ensure the safety of both visitors and the sheep, so be sure to check with park officials upon arrival.
Trail Ridge Road
One of the park’s most iconic drives, Trail Ridge Road climbs to over 12,000 feet, offering spectacular views and a good chance of encountering bighorn sheep. These agile climbers favor high elevations, so keep your binoculars handy as you scan rocky outcrops along the drive, especially near the Alpine Visitor Center.
Fall River Road
For a more adventurous route, take the one-way Old Fall River Road, which winds through some of the park’s more remote and rugged terrain. Bighorn sheep are known to frequent the steep cliffs and rocky slopes along this route, making for some breathtaking wildlife encounters.
The Loch Vale and Glacier Gorge Area
If you’re up for a scenic hike, head to Loch Vale or Glacier Gorge. These areas provide stunning alpine landscapes that are home to bighorn sheep, particularly in the summer months when they move higher into the mountains.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging to enjoy after a bighorn sheep Rocky Mountain National Park adventure. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
There’s something magical about Estes Park in the winter. The moment the first snowfall covers the mountains and forests, it feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe. Let’s talk about when to catch the best snowfall, when the snow starts melting, and all the fun ways to enjoy the Estes Park snow!
When Does Estes Park Get the Most Snow?
If you love waking up to fresh powder, you’ll want to visit between November and April, when Estes Park sees its heaviest snowfall. But if you’re hoping for peak winter scenery, December through March is your sweet spot, with February often taking the crown as the snowiest month. Winter storms roll in, covering everything in a pristine white blanket—making the perfect setting for cozy cabins, crackling fires, and endless winter adventures.
When Does the Snow Melt?
As spring creeps in, the lower elevations around town start to thaw out by late March, but the higher altitudes in Rocky Mountain National Park hold onto their snowy charm much longer—sometimes well into June or July! So if you’re planning a late-season visit, don’t be surprised if you still find patches of snow clinging to the mountain peaks and shaded trails.
The Best Snow Activities in Estes Park
Winter in Estes Park isn’t just about gazing at the beautiful snow (though we highly recommend taking it all in!). There’s so much to do, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to embrace the quiet beauty of winter.
Snowshoeing: Strap on a pair of snowshoes and explore stunning winter trails like Bear Lake, Dream Lake, or Mills Lake. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the season and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Cross-Country Skiing: Glide through the snow on groomed trails like Sprague Lake or Grand Lake, soaking up the crisp mountain air.
Sledding & Tubing: Head to Hidden Valley for a day of exhilarating sledding—perfect for kids and kids-at-heart!
Wildlife Watching: Winter is one of the best times to spot wildlife like elk, mule deer, and even moose as they wander through the snowy meadows.
Winter Hiking: If the conditions are right, explore lower-elevation trails like Gem Lake or Lumpy Ridge for a snow-dusted hike that’s still manageable.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging to enjoy the Estes Park snow. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
Estes Park isn’t just about jaw-dropping mountain views and epic outdoor adventures—it’s also a fantastic place to kick back with a drink in hand. After a day of hiking, wildlife spotting, or just soaking in the fresh mountain air, what better way to unwind than with a handcrafted cocktail or a smooth glass of wine? Here are our favorite cocktail bars in Estes Park!
Wheel Bar – A Local Favorite
A true Estes Park classic, Wheel Bar is the kind of place where both locals and visitors feel at home. With a lineup of classic and creative cocktails, a laid-back atmosphere, and fun extras like pool tables and arcade games, it’s perfect for an easygoing night with friends.
The Barrel – Beer Garden Vibes & Craft Cocktails
If you love an open-air, beer-garden feel, The Barrel is the spot. While their craft beer selection is top-notch, don’t sleep on their cocktail menu—it’s packed with creative, well-balanced drinks that pair perfectly with the lively ambiance.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub – Rustic & Relaxed
Looking for that true Colorado mountain-town charm? The Wapiti Colorado Pub has you covered. With handcrafted cocktails, a rotating selection of local craft beers, and a cozy, welcoming vibe, it’s a great place to wind down after a long day.
Elevations Eatery and Bar – Elevated Drinks, Elevated Views
For a modern take on mountain dining, Elevations Eatery and Bar offers carefully crafted cocktails alongside a locally inspired menu. Their Smoked Old Fashioned—a bold, bourbon-based drink with hints of orange and bitters—is a must-try for whiskey lovers.
217 Wine Bar – Sip in Style
If your idea of the perfect evening involves great wine and even better views, 217 Wine Bar is your place. With a chic, music-inspired aesthetic, a fantastic wine list, and a front porch that showcases the beauty of the Rockies, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and savor the moment.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging to enjoy after visiting the cocktail bars in Estes Park. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
Winter transforms Estes Park into a snowy wonderland, offering couples a mix of cozy moments and exciting adventures. From outdoor exploration to indulgent treats, there’s plenty to make your romantic getaway unforgettable. Here are five of our things to do in Estes Park for couples:
- Indulge at the Wine and Chocolate Festival
Estes Park’s Wine and Chocolate Festival, held each February, is a celebration of love, flavors, and fun. Stroll through the event, sampling locally crafted wines paired with decadent chocolates. Live music adds to the festive vibe, making it a perfect date for couples looking to savor the sweeter side of life.
- Snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park
Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park is magical, and snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore it together. Trails like Bear Lake or Hidden Valley offer serene snowy landscapes, with towering pines and frozen lakes setting the scene for romance. It’s a peaceful, breathtaking experience you’ll remember forever.
- Warm Up with a Brewery or Distillery Tour
After a day in the chilly mountain air, cozy up with a brewery or distillery tour. Estes Park boasts several fantastic options, like Rock Cut Brewing or Elkins Distilling Co. Share a flight of craft beers or sip on locally made whiskey while learning about the brewing and distilling process.
- Stay Cozy in a Romantic Cabin
There’s nothing more romantic than snuggling up by a crackling fire after a day of winter fun. Estes Park offers charming cabins and lodges that provide the perfect backdrop for a couple’s getaway. Enjoy mountain views, private hot tubs, and quiet moments together while the snow falls outside.
- Shop and Dine in Downtown Estes Park
Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Estes Park, transformed into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Explore boutique shops, pick out a unique souvenir, and end your evening with a cozy meal at one of Estes Park’s romantic restaurants like Bird & Jim or Twin Owls Steakhouse.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and just minutes from the best things to do in Estes Park for couples, Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.