As the summer ends in Estes Park, you’ll notice the crowds that constantly head to Rocky Mountain National Park have started to thin out, bringing a quiet stillness with the cool autumn breeze. Even though the summer season is over, there’s still plenty of fun to be had! Below is a list of our favorite things to do in Estes Park fall 2021!
See Fall Colors
See the vibrant changing leaves close up with a hike on one of the many trails in and around Estes Park. Don’t fancy walking? Choose one of the scenic byways that run through the Rocky Mountain region for a vibrant picture-worthy drive!
Visit The Stanley Hotel
Experience one of Estes Park’s most iconic landmarks, The Stanley Hotel. The bright white building looks unassuming from the outside but holds so much mystery and history within its walls. The property even inspired the idea of The Shining, one of Stephen King’s most significant works. Take a night tour of the property for a spookier perspective of the building’s famed past.
Wildlife Viewing
During the autumn months, wild animals wander closer to residents and locals of Estes Valley. The changing season typically means seeing the famed elk that the valley is known for. If you head into Rocky Mountain National Park, you can see the big game animals like bears, mules, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Explore Downtown Estes Park
Take a break from adventuring and get better acquainted with the community Estes Park. The central vein of the town is Elkhorn Avenue, where you can find bars, shops, eateries, and more. Grab a souvenir shirt or key chain to remember your stay in Estes from a local boutique. Stop for a bite at one of 75 restaurants for a full belly and scenic view of The Big Thompson River and the Rockies.
Rock Climbing
Estes park attracts rock climbers from all over ready to tackle the challenge of the rocky mountain terrain. Seasoned climbers look forward to the cooler temperatures of the fall season that create the perfect conditions for rock climbing in the mountains! Book a guided climb with a local Estes Park outfitter for an epic mountain adventure that pros and novices will enjoy!
Attend a Fall Festival
Estes Park hosts dozens of festivals throughout the year, and the fall season is no different.
Autumn Gold Festival – September 25th – Celebrate the transition of the aspens from lush forest green to beautiful golden orange hues with Beers, Brats, and Bands!
Elk Fest– October 2nd and 3rd – Every year, residents and visitors celebrate the start of elk breeding season. Enjoy a variety of vendors, live music, food, performances, and more!
Pumpkins & Pilsners Festival – October 9th – A free fall festival held at Bond Park with something to enjoy for all ages. The little ones can pick their own pumpkins, jump in the bounce house, and play autumn games. Adults enjoy live music, local craft beer, and delicious food!
Rocky Mountain Craft Spirits Festival – October 23rd – Craft spirit connoisseurs will love this Estes Park tasting festival featuring plenty of different distillers, all vying for the title of “Best in Class.” This year, attendees can look forward to sampling unique whiskeys in your complimentary souvenir tasting glasses, participating in bar games, and enjoying live music.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Hot tub at Mountain Pine Cabin.
Or course, one of our favorite things to do in Estes Park fall 2021 is relaxing by the fire inside your cozy cabin at Rocky Mountain Resorts, featuring a wide variety of lodging options for all types of vacations, including romantic getaway cabins to large vacation homes. Our vacation rentals offer comfortable and cozy surroundings with all the amenities of home, making for a perfect place to enjoy cool fall evenings.
