Rocky Mountain Resorts Blog

There’s more to Estes Park than mountain trails and wildlife! Beyond the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll find a creative community of painters, photographers, sculptors, and craftspeople inspired by Colorado’s spectacular scenery.   Explore Aspen and Evergreen Gallery Located at 356 East Elkhorn Avenue, Aspen and Evergreen Gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in Colorado-inspired artwork.   The gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, photography, pottery,...

Just because Trail Ridge Road closes for winter doesn’t mean your Rocky Mountain adventure is over! In fact, Estes Park after Trail Ridge Road closes offers a completely different experience, with snow-covered peaks, peaceful hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and cozy downtown restaurants.   While the high-elevation highway typically closes to through traffic in mid-October, many of Estes Park’s most popular attractions remain accessible throughout fall and winter.   Which Rocky...

Looking for a hike near Estes Park that combines enormous granite boulders, sweeping mountain views, and a hidden alpine lake? Gem Lake Estes Park delivers all three!   Located in the Lumpy Ridge area of Rocky Mountain National Park, this rewarding hike climbs through rocky terrain to a small lake tucked beneath dramatic granite cliffs.   Where Does the Gem Lake Trail Begin? The hike starts at the Lumpy Ridge...

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...

When the sun drops behind the Rockies, Estes Park reveals an entirely different kind of scenery. Mountain silhouettes fade into darkness, constellations brighten overhead, and on a clear night, thousands of stars can fill the sky. For visitors interested in stargazing Estes Park, a little planning can turn an ordinary evening into one of the most memorable parts of a Colorado getaway.   Find a Dark Place to Watch the...

When your kids have outgrown the easy nature loop but are not quite ready for a full-day summit push, Estes Park has plenty of trails that hit the sweet spot. These family hikes Estes Park visitors love offer real elevation, memorable scenery, and satisfying destinations without turning the day into an endurance test.   Emerald Lake: Best All-Around Adventure Start with the Emerald Lake Trail from Bear Lake. The route...

If you want Rocky Mountain scenery without committing to a long hike, Lily Lake Estes Park is one of the easiest places to spend a few memorable hours. Located south of town along Highway 7, this peaceful area combines an approachable lake loop, fishing, wildlife watching, picnic tables, and mountain views in one compact outing.   Walk the Lily Lake Loop Start with the Lily Lake Trail, an approximately 0.8-mile...

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...