Sitting at the foot of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a small mountain town that offers a lot for the outdoor enthusiast and a quiet reprieve for those who desire a peaceful weekend away. There are endless opportunities to hike through fields of wildflowers, hike majestic peaks, encounter wildlife, and so much more with a trip to Estes Park.
Visitors come from all over the world to visit Estes Park but for those lucky enough to live nearby, this charming mountain town can offer the perfect opportunity for a quick weekend getaway. For those who live in Denver, CO, Estes Park is an ideal distance for a much-needed weekend mountain escape. So, hop in the car and read here for our tips to traveling from Denver to Estes Park for your next weekend getaway.
Getting there: Denver to Estes Park
The fastest route from Denver to Estes Park is via I-25 to U.S. 36 E near Boulder. In Estes Park, U.S. 36 meets up with U.S. 34, with the Big Thompson Canyon and continues through Rocky Mountain National Park to Granby and Grand Lake. The drive is an estimated an hour and a half from the central part of Denver.
If you are looking for a more scenic route, take the “Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway.” One of many scenic drives to take near and around Estes Park. The route takes you through Central City, Nederland, and Allenspark for a beautiful drive you won’t mind spending a little extra time in the car. Estimated drive time is two hours and twenty minutes.
Estes Park Visitor Center
Once you have made it to Estes Park be sure to first stop in at the visitor center. Here you can find all the information you might need to plan your weekend in Estes Park. Summer hours (starting Memorial Day weekend) are Monday through Saturday – 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Location: 500 Big Thompson Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517
Getting around
Driving around Estes Park is easy to do but if you wish to rely on other modes of transportation there are several options available. There are FREE Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park shuttles that makes it easy to get around town and not have to worry about parking. There are also a number of guided tours that provide you an educational insight while letting someone else drive you around town.
Things to do in Estes Park
When it comes to deciding on things to do in Estes Park, there is plenty to choose from. From hiking and biking to skiing and snow-tubing there is something for everyone and every season. Discover these Estes Park activities and add them to your travel itinerary.
Estes Park Events
When planning your mountain getaway from Denver to Estes Park be sure to plan around the many events and happenings that take place each year. From wine and chocolate festivals to live music summer concerts, there is always something to plan for. Discover these upcoming Estes Park events and start planning your trip today!
Estes Park lodging
As you start planning your trip from Denver to Estes Park, be sure to browse our Rocky Mountain Resorts Accommodations and enjoy a little piece of heaven in Colorado with a stay in one of our vacation rentals. Our Estes Park lodging options range from cozy cabins and cottages to spacious condos and vacation homes. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Colorado mountain life with all the convenient amenities of home with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts.
