Many tend to think of white sandy beaches for a honeymoon, but we know plenty of adventurers who’d take hiking over watching the waves. Celebrate your new marriage with a honeymoon in Estes Park!

To get the romantic ideas rolling, we’ve put together a few activities to enjoy outside of your cabin.

Autumn Gold Festival – Celebrate your new marriage and the new fall season during the Autumn Gold Festival in late September. This year, the festival coincides with a fee-free day for Rocky Mountain National Park on Saturday, September 26! With free entrance to the park and to the festival, you can save that money for a visit to the spa or a nice romantic dinner out on the town. Did we mention the dancing and live music?

Biking – Always a popular activity in Estes Park, biking can be a great way to stay active during your honeymoon or our excuse to have an extra piece of cake during the reception! If you’re not up for a challenging trail, we recommend the Lake Estes Loop that winds 3.75 miles around the lake or head further out to Devil’s Gulch Loop that offers wonderful views during your ride.

Couple mountain biking

Hiking – Trek up in the mountains for some peace and serenity with your spouse. Take a look at our favorite easy hikes that won’t stress your body out but still include stunning panoramas of the Rockies around you. The cooler temperatures are an even better reason to snuggle up next to your sweetie as you look out over the gorgeous Colorado landscape.

Horseback riding – Gallop off into the future with your partner on a romantic horseback ride! You can always play up the Old West theme and head to the saloon (or bar) for a happy hour with the person that makes you the happiest after your horseback riding excursion.

Photography – We know you’ve probably had enough photos taken to last a lifetime but why not get a once in a lifetime shot by taking an old fashioned portrait? Step into the saloon and strike a pose with your spouse for a Wild West style photo you’ll treasure for years to come. Right on Elkhorn Avenue, there are two old time portrait studios, Real West Old Time Portraits and Memories Old Time Portraits.

Photo Credit: Memories Old Time Portraits

Spa – This list would not be complete without a mention of our fantastic spas, many of which offer couples packages! On the River Massage has a romantic couples massage at either 60 or 90 minutes or a fun DIY package where you can enjoy a massage and learn the art of massage and techniques the therapists use so you can use them at home! Riverpointe Spa also has spa packages whether you want a hot stone massage or a massage and a facial.

Wineries – Enhance the romantic mood by stopping by Snowy Peaks Winery.Taste a sampling of local Colorado wine and pick up your favorite bottle in the tasting room that has a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains. From refreshing whites to rich reds, you’ll be able to find the perfect bottle to complement your honeymoon.

Whether you just want to relax and enjoy the mountain scenery or head out into the rugged mountains for an adventurous honeymoon, we think Estes Park is the perfect destination for a fall honeymoon. Now you just have to find the perfect cabin for your stay!