Estes Park ResortThings To Do in Estes Park
There is something for everyone to enjoy in Rocky Mountain National Park and at the Estes Park Resort, from breathtaking views upon the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, to confectionary delights at The Taffy Shop, and family-friendly fun at Estes Park Ride-A-Kart. For guests with specialized interests, we recommend a visit to Snowy Peaks Winery, Elkins Distillery right across the street or Estes Park Museum, both just a 5 minute drive from the resort.
Reconnect with nature on Lake Estes or the popular Gem Lake Trail nearby, and for adventurers of all fitness levels, the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park awaits. In the summer, hike, fish, kayak or simply enjoy the view while in the winter, you can cross country ski or snowshoe to explore the local mountain range. Start planning your trip using our guide below to see the full extent of local attractions and natural experiences that wait for you at Estes Park Resort or contact our helpful staff if you need suggestions on what to do during your stay.
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- Family Friendly
- Oh You Fancy
- Local Favorites
- Lunch & Grab and Go
- Fun Atmosphere
- Get Your Drink On: Breweries, Wineries and Distilleries
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- Summer Activtity
- Winter Activity
- Shops
- Fun & Games
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Wanna Stay Close to Homebase:
Activities at Estes Park Resort - Sight Seeing and Tours
- Local Favorites
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- Take a Hike: Light to Moderate Stole
- Take a Hike: The Experienced Hiker
- Tours and Off Roading
- Scenic Drives
- Local Favorites
- Italian
- Seafood
- Steaks
Located on the shores of Lake Estes, Ember is a Modern American restaurant offering a menu of Italian favorites, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared steaks. Guests can enjoy lakeside dining in a warm, relaxed setting at the heart of The Estes Park Resort.
Hunter’s Chop House specializes in classic American comfort food with a rugged mountain twist. Known for its steaks, wild game, and lodge-style setting, it’s a local favorite for a satisfying meal in a laid-back Estes Park atmosphere.
Penelope's is the oldest burger spot in downtown Estes Park, known for its old-fashioned burgers, brats, fries, and sandwiches. Step inside for a casual, satisfying meal served in a nostalgic setting loved by locals and visitors alike.
- Deli
- Bakery
Scratch Deli & Bakery is known for its generously sized sandwiches, packed with fresh toppings and flavor. Guests also love their house-baked lemon bars and chocolate chip cookies. Simple, satisfying, and made fresh in Estes Park.
Located near a namesake waterfall, Cascades Restaurant offers American steakhouse favorites with a focus on local ingredients. Enjoy dishes like Colorado Game Meatloaf, Filet Mignon, and Grilled Elk Loin. The seasonal patio provides covered outdoor seating and a relaxed mountain dining experience.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Originally named after the nearby Notchtop Mountain, Notchtop Café has served Estes Park since 1993. Stop in for a relaxed breakfast or lunch with mountain charm, and enjoy hearty classics made fresh in a cozy, local setting.
- American
- Breakfast on Weekends
- Lunch and Dinner daily
Claire’s Restaurant and Bar serves American breakfast on weekends and lunch and dinner daily in downtown Estes Park. Known for its rotating seasonal menu and full bar, Claire’s focuses on made-to-order meals using locally sourced ingredients—all enjoyed with beautiful mountain views.
- Tasting Room
- Meats and Cheeses
Snowy Peaks Winery features a welcoming tasting room where guests can sample award-winning handcrafted wines from Colorado. Pair your tasting with local meats and cheeses, and enjoy a relaxing experience that celebrates the flavors of the region.
- Tasting Room
- Can Bring in food
Rock Cut Brewing Company is a local favorite for small-batch craft beer, just steps from downtown Estes Park and Prospect Mountain. Bring your own food and relax in the taproom after a day of hiking or sightseeing, and enjoy a casual spot to unwind with friends or family.
Estes Park Brewery features a full-service restaurant and bar, a spacious tasting room, and a free sample bar for visitors. With plenty of parking and recent renovations, it's a convenient and welcoming place to enjoy house-brewed beers alongside casual pub fare.
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Company offers a relaxed setting in a converted gas station or at its downtown Publick House. With mountain views, a rotating lineup of craft beers, and a welcoming space for locals and visitors, it’s a go-to spot for simple good times and great brews in Estes Park.
Ice Cream, Toffee, Chocolates, Carmel & Candies. Laura's Fine Candies in Estes Park, Colorado offers handcrafted toffee, chocolates, caramel, and ice cream made with mountain-town charm and family tradition.
Candy, Fudge and Carmel apples. Step into a world of chocolate bliss at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, where rich fudge, handmade candies, and caramel apples are crafted fresh daily in the heart of Estes Park.
With over 100 varieties of jerky including beef, turkey, wild game, and even vegan options, the Beef Jerky Outlet is a tasting experience you won’t forget. From python to popcorn, hot sauces to insect lollipops, there's something for every curious snacker in Estes Park.
The Taffy Shop in Estes Park serves up gourmet salt water taffy that’s made entirely by hand—from cooking to pulling to wrapping. With each batch crafted in small quantities using traditional methods, their taffy offers a fresh, chewy texture and authentic flavor that reflects the care and time put into every piece.
From go-karts and mini golf to arcade games and aerial obstacle courses, Open Air Adventure Park delivers excitement for all. Take on a challenge with axe throwing, or explore Estes Park’s natural beauty with guided hiking and kayak tours designed to connect you with the landscape while creating unforgettable moments.
Chippers Lanes is your go-to spot for indoor fun in Estes Park. Enjoy a lively bowling experience, challenge friends to air hockey, racing games, and billiards, or unwind with great food and arcade classics—all under one roof.
Stanley Park in Estes Park is a community hub offering outdoor fun for all ages. Sports lovers can take advantage of three ballfields, four tennis courts, two pickleball courts, a mountain bike park, and a skate park. For a more relaxed visit, the park features two picnic shelters, a playground, a lakeside dog park, and open grassy areas for events—all with access to the scenic Lake Estes Trail.
Take in an old classic movie theatre. Fun fact: this is the oldest motion picture theatre in the United States (that wasn't built first as something else), built in 1913! And the screen came from the old drive in movie theater that was on the Estes Park Resort!
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway gives visitors a smooth, scenic ride to a viewing platform at the summit of Prospect Mountain. From the top, you'll take in wide-open views of the Rocky Mountains and Continental Divide. A peaceful, breathtaking perspective on the region's natural beauty.
Whether you're visiting for the day or staying for the weekend, the Mustang Mountain Coaster offers a high-speed ride through the trees with sweeping mountain views. It's a favorite Estes Park activity for adventure seekers of all ages.
At the Lake Estes Marina, guests can rent bikes, kayaks, and pontoons for a day of adventure on the water. The marina shop offers fishing gear, bait, camping supplies, snacks, and more. Plus a kids' park nearby for families looking to relax and play lakeside.
The Estes Park 18-Hole Course is a championship-length par 71 course surrounded by mountain views and often shared with elk and deer. With a full practice facility, pro shop, and on-site dining at Mother’s Café, it’s a scenic and welcoming spot for golfers. Across town, the Lake Estes 9-Hole offers a relaxed par 31 course and disc golf setup, perfect for a casual round with stunning lake views.
The Estes Valley Recreation and Park District offers more than just outdoor beauty. At its modern Community Center, you’ll find indoor and outdoor pools, fitness classes, cardio equipment, and courts for pickleball and tennis. The district also oversees golf courses, parks, trails, a marina, and event venues. This brings year-round recreation and wellness to locals and visitors alike.
Star gazing
Estes Park is very high in altitude, and has fairly low light pollution, so the stars may be brighter than you’ve ever seen before!
Guided tours, climbing gym, biking fishing, camping, hiking climbing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, backcountry skiing, sledding,
Fun Fact: the Shinning was filled here and so was the "Aspen Sceen" from Dumb & Dumber. Legend has it ____ ghost is still here.
Distance: 11 miles
Why
the locals like it? Lumpy Ridge Loop is a local favorite for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic variety. Tucked into the quieter north side of Rocky Mountain National Park, this trail begins at the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead and leads hikers through forest, granite formations, and open meadows with views of the Continental Divide. Easy to reach from MacGregor Avenue, it’s a less-traveled option for those wanting a true Estes Park hiking experience.
Distance: 3.5 Miles
Why
the locals like it? The hike to Gem Lake is a local favorite for its strong workout and rewarding views. Starting at the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead just north of Estes Park, this roughly 4-mile round-trip trail features significant elevation gain, making it ideal for active hikers. The trail winds through rugged terrain to a unique mountain lake, surrounded by sandstone formations and panoramic vistas of Estes Park and the surrounding peaks.
Distance: 6.2 Miles
Why
the locals like it? Starting from the same trailhead as Gem Lake, the MacGregor Ranch Trail is a gentle path ideal for young families, bird watchers, and couples looking for a peaceful walk. With light elevation gain and wide-open views, it’s a quiet way to experience Estes Park’s natural beauty at a slower pace.
Estes Park Rock Climbing offers guided climbs and instruction for all skill levels. Whether you're learning new techniques, planning a family adventure, or training for a summit like Longs Peak, their experienced team helps you explore with confidence. Visit their indoor Climbing Gym and Training Facility to sharpen your skills year-round.
Estes Park ATV Rentals offers one of the area’s most popular outdoor experiences. Rentals include an ATV, truck, and trailer, giving you everything you need to explore the backcountry on your own terms. While summer riding is a hit, winter trails offer a quieter, snow-covered landscape that many riders consider the best time to go.
Sombrero Stables offers classic horseback riding experiences with deep Colorado roots. With trails that wind through forests and open meadows, it’s a memorable way for families and couples to explore Estes Park on horseback while enjoying the area’s Western heritage.
WildSide 4x4 Tours offers custom photo tours through the Estes Park area and Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you're seeking a relaxed scenic outing or a thrilling 4x4 route, their guides deliver memorable views and plenty of photo opportunities. Let them do the driving while you enjoy the ride and capture the beauty of the mountains.
Rapid Transit Rafting is Estes Park’s only local rafting company offering transportation to and from the river, so guests can focus on the adventure, not the logistics. Choose from half-day or full-day rafting trips and enjoy a scenic, exciting experience with experienced guides and hassle-free access from downtown.
Estes Park Mountain Shop is your go-to spot for winter gear rentals and snowshoeing adventures. Explore the quiet backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park on your own or join a guided snowshoe tour through their partner, Wildland Trekking. With scenic trails and the chance to spot winter wildlife, snowshoeing offers a peaceful way to enjoy the Rockies in their most serene season.
The Riverwalk winds through the heart of downtown Estes Park, following the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers. Lined with shops, restaurants, and places to relax, it's a peaceful and scenic way to explore the town. At George Hix Riverside Plaza—the confluence of both rivers—you'll find statues, fountains, bridges, and shaded benches for taking in the beauty of Estes Park.
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10 Items You don’t Want to hit the Trails Without
- Topographic Map and Compass/GPS
- Flashlight
- Whistle
- Matches (Waterproof or in a waterproof container)
- First Aid Kit
- Candle
- Pocket or Utility Knife
- Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Hat
- Extra Food and Water
- Rain Gear and Extra Clothing
- Personal Oxygen Can
Park Information
- General Park Information: 970.586.1206 TTY: 970.586.1319
- Trail Ridge Road Status: 970.586.1222
- Lost and Found: 970.586.1242
- Emergencies 911 or 970.585.1203
- Camping Reservations: 877.444.6777
- Backcountry Camping: 970.586.1242
- State Highway Information: 303.639.1111