Estes Park, Colorado is a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit, and one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is by taking a scenic drive. The winding roads and stunning vistas will take your breath away, and there are plenty of routes to choose from. Here are some of our favorite scenic drives in Estes Park.
Trail Ridge Road
One of the most popular scenic drives in Estes Park is Trail Ridge Road, which spans 48 miles through the Rocky Mountain National Park. This road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, reaching a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Longs Peak, the highest mountain in the park. You’ll also have the opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a moose or a black bear.
Old Fall River Road
Another must-see scenic drive in Estes Park is Old Fall River Road. This historic road was built in 1913, and it’s a narrow, winding road that takes you up to the Alpine Visitor Center. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of waterfalls, alpine meadows, and rocky peaks. This drive is not for the faint of heart, as it includes plenty of hairpin turns and steep drop-offs. However, if you’re up for the challenge, the views are well worth it.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is a 55-mile drive that takes you from Estes Park to Central City. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Continental Divide, as well as several charming mountain towns. This drive is particularly beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are changing colors and the aspen trees are a vibrant gold. Make sure to stop in Nederland, a quaint mountain town that’s home to several unique shops and restaurants.
Bear Lake Road
Bear Lake Road is a 9-mile drive that takes you from the Estes Park Visitor Center to Bear Lake. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the mountains, as well as several trailheads for hikes of varying difficulty levels. Bear Lake itself is a picturesque alpine lake that’s surrounded by pine trees and rocky peaks. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk around the lake.
In conclusion, there are plenty of scenic drives to choose from in Estes Park, each one offering its own unique views and experiences. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer to take in the scenery from the comfort of your car, Estes Park has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Located in the town of Estes Park and just minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging in the area after visiting the art galleries in Estes Park. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts!
