Estes Park, Colorado is easily one of the most photographed areas in the state. With Rocky Mountain National Park as your backdrop, beautiful scenery surrounds our little mountain town from almost every vantage point. So, grab your camera and capture your travels with these top picture-worthy spots in Estes Park.
Estes Park welcome sign
The iconic Estes Park welcome sign is a great way to begin your photographic journey in town. As you are driving into town, on your way to check-in at Rocky Mountain Resorts, stop at the welcome sign to get your quintessential Estes Park photo, complete with a gorgeous mountain landscape in the background.
Lake Estes
Lake Estes is a focal point in the town of Estes Park. It is where many gather to partake in summer activities such as fishing, boating, and standup paddleboarding. It also features a nearly four-mile walking path around the perimeter of the lake. Here, you’ll find many walkers, joggers, birders, and others admiring the lake’s beautiful setting. In the fall, the area surrounding the lake is a great place to spot herds of elk. What could be more picturesque than that?
Mary’s Lake
The other lake in Estes Park, Mary’s Lake, is often overshadowed by its neighbor, Lake Estes. But this recreation spot in town is just as scenic and less crowded. Mary’s Lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and boating in the summer. The marina features bike and boat rentals as well. But what makes this one of the top picture-worthy spots in Estes Park is the sunset and sunrise reflections you can see from the lake’s shoreline.
Hermit Park | Kruger Rock Trail
The Hermit Park Open Space, just outside of town features access to one of the area’s most popular trails, the hike to Kruger Rock. The four-mile loop leads you to the top of Kruger Rock where sweeping views of Mount Meeker, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide can be seen. For a truly picture-perfect moment, reach the summit by dawn for sunrise over Estes Park.
Knoll Willows Open Space
Another open space that is worth the visit, is The Knoll Willows Open Space. This 20-acre area is full of wildlife, incredible views, and historic ruins. A short loop (or make it a lollipop loop) trail near downtown Estes Park provides access to some of the best views in Estes Park. The half-mile trail features panoramic views of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, the historic Birch Ruins, and much more!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Of course, what list of the top photo-worthy spots in Estes Park would be complete without a mention of Rocky Mountain National Park? One of the most photographed national parks in the country, RMNP offers plenty of opportunities to get that perfect shot. Simply take a drive or get out and hike one of the many trails to find your favorite picturesque landscape. Use our guide on the top picture-worthy spots in RMNP to help get you started.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Some of the best places to photograph in Estes Park are found right outside your front door at Rocky Mountain Resorts. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations including cabins, cottages, and vacation homes, all at various property locations.
Find views of Fall River from your private deck with accommodations at Fawn Valley Inn. Or discover scenic backdrops with cabins and cottages nestled within the mountainside at Sunnyside Knoll. Other rentals have spectacular mountain vantage points with hiking trails right outside their doors.
All our properties are conveniently located near the upbeat downtown area of Estes Park and the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Plus, when you book a two-night stay now through May 21, 2022, you receive a third night FREE! Book your stay today!
