Fresh off my trip to Colorado with Joel last weekend I am excited to share all the things we did in Estes Park that brought us joy and relaxation. We flew out Thursday morning and spent two nights in Estes Park before spending two nights in Denver. It was the first time both of us had been to Estes Park, and we are already talking about going back for a week sometime soon.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the cutest Airbnb in Estes(pictured above)! It was a little pink guest house, behind our hosts main house. The house was small, but packed with a king sized bed and kitchenette in addition to the patio pictured above. Joel and I loved reading and having a beer on the patio. Not to mention our sweet hosts brought us cinnamon rolls before we left!
Where to Eat
We stocked up on a bunch of snacks, groceries for breakfast, and craft beer as soon as we arrived. We didn’t dine out a whole lot, but when we did two places were delicious!
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern: Joel and I headed to this tavern after a long tiring day, we sat down and had some delicious homestyle food. Highly recommend the Beef Stroganoff! As a bonus they have live music seven days a week, and the decor could not be more mountainesque.
Antonio’s Real New York Pizza: This pizza is also delicious and walkable from downtown!
What to Do
Drive to The Summit of the Alpine Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park: This was recommended to us by the most helpful man at the Estes Park Visitor Center. As you drive you start around 7,000 feet above sea level and eventually get up to 12,000 feet at the summit. Throughout the scenic drive there are 5-10 lookouts/places to stop and each one is so unique.
Take the Aerial Tram(pictured above):the tram is located right in Estes Park and is so fun! It costs $14 a person and you take a gondola up the mountain(about a 3 minute ride up). Once you are at the top there is a lookout and a small hike you can do to continue up the mountain.
Hike to Dream Lake: this was my absolute favorite thing we did in Estes. This hike was mild, and took us past two lakes and a ton of beautiful wilderness. We saw Elk on many occasions, and the lakes were stunning! If the word hike intimidates you, don’t let it. This hike is very doable and no hiking boots are necessary as you follow a dirt path the whole time.
Estes Park blew me away and has made me even more excited to explore the amazing wilderness here in the US!
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