Rocky Mountain Resorts Blog

Trail Ridge Road gets plenty of attention every autumn, but it is far from the only place to find brilliant fall colors near Estes Park. If you would rather trade busy overlooks for quieter roads, lakeside walks, and picnic spots tucked among golden aspens, there are several easy alternatives close to town. Drive Highway 7 Toward Lily Lake Head south from Estes Park on Highway 7, part of the Peak...

The East Portal Trailhead near Estes Park is one of those spots that can feel pleasantly removed from the busier trailheads around Bear Lake. Tucked southwest of town near the end of Highway 66, it gives hikers access to forested routes, quieter trail connections, and several ways to build anything from a short out-and-back to a longer loop. Start With Parking and Access To reach East Portal, follow Highway 66...

September and October bring one of Estes Park’s most memorable wildlife experiences: the fall elk rut. Bull elk bugle across open meadows, gather harems, and challenge rivals while golden grasses and changing aspens create an incredible backdrop. For photographers, elk rut photography Estes Park can produce unforgettable images—but only when wildlife comes first. Go at Sunrise or Sunset Early morning and late afternoon usually offer the best combination of elk...

Few Colorado adventures compare to exploring pine forests, mountain meadows, and rocky trails from the saddle. Options for horseback riding in Estes Park range from easy family rides near town to longer journeys inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Here is how the area’s leading guided trail rides compare.   Glacier Creek Stables: Best for National Park Scenery Glacier Creek Stables is the only commercial stable located inside Rocky Mountain National...

Running in Estes Park feels different in the best way. One minute you are cruising beside a quiet lake, and the next you are looking up at rugged peaks, watching elk graze, or following a trail into pine forest. Whether you want an easy shakeout run or a lung-burning mountain climb, there are plenty of memorable places to run in Estes Park CO.   Lake Estes Trail Start with Lake...

For generations, the Estes Park Aerial Tramway has been one of the town’s most recognizable attractions. Rising high above Estes Park to the summit of Prospect Mountain, the tramway combines Colorado history, engineering, and unforgettable mountain views into one classic experience. And in 2026, it continues to be one of the best ways to see Estes Park from above. A Colorado Attraction Since 1955 The Estes Park Aerial Tramway first...

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park occupy some of Colorado’s most pristine landscape and prime fly-fishing territory. With over 265,000 acres to explore, Rocky Mountain National Park offers plenty of fishing opportunities from seasoned anglers to beginners.

Estes Park is famous for its breathtaking mountains and stunning landscapes. But did you know it’s also a great spot for a swim day? Whether you crave the thrill of natural lakes or the comfort of heated pools, Estes Park offers a variety of swimming spots to cool off and enjoy the water. Here’s your ultimate guide to Estes Park swimming. Can You Swim in Lake Estes? While Lake Estes...

As if the landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park wasn’t beautiful enough, for a couple of months out of the year, parts of the park burst with colorful wildflowers, adding another element of beauty. Late spring into summer is the perfect time to spot wildflowers in Colorado. Typically, when at a higher elevation, the wildflowers are at their peak during July into August. At lower elevations, they reach their peak...

If you’re craving winter adventure with snowy scenery that knocks your wool socks off, Estes Park sledding delivers unforgettable fun for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike! Nestled at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers stunning backdrops and amazing snowy hills perfect for sledding and tubing in Colorado.   Hidden Valley – RMNP’s Classic Snow Play Paradise The crown jewel of local sledding is Hidden Valley inside...