Plan Your Trip to Estes Park
Explore the many adventure activities open to you in the Rocky Mountains. You’ll find something for every season of the year, and visitors of every age and fitness level.
WINTER ACTIVITIES IN ESTES PARK
🏂 Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
Estes Park transforms into a winter wonderland with world-class snowshoeing and nordic skiing trails. Head to Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, or Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park for groomed paths and snowy solitude. Rentals are available in town.
🧗♂️ Winter Hiking & Ice Climbing
With the right gear, many of Estes Park’s trails are accessible year-round. Brave the cold for stunning winter scenery on trails like Gem Lake, Deer Mountain, or The Loch. For thrill-seekers, ice climbing is available with local guides near Hidden Falls and Loch Vale.
🏔️ Scenic Winter Drives
Trail Ridge Road closes in winter, but Bear Lake Road, Highway 7, and the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway remain open (weather permitting). These offer unbeatable views of snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and maybe even a herd of elk or bighorn sheep.
⛸️ Ice Skating & Sledding
Bundle up and enjoy family fun with sledding at Hidden Valley, the only area in RMNP where it’s allowed. Or, head to the YMCA of the Rockies for outdoor ice skating with mountain views. Snow tubes and gear rentals available.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN ESTES PARK
🚴 Biking & Mountain Biking
Estes Park has miles of paved trails and rugged off-road routes. Cruise around Lake Estes, take on the climbs of Devil’s Gulch Road, or explore technical trails in Hermit Park. Summer mornings are ideal to avoid wind and heat.
🥾 Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
With iconic hikes like Sky Pond, Gem Lake, and Chasm Lake, summer is prime time for hitting the trail. Choose from mellow walks or alpine climbs — all with epic views and wildflowers galore.
⛺ Camping & Stargazing
Campgrounds like Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, and Olive Ridge fill quickly, so book early. Developed sites have restrooms and water, but backcountry permits are needed for wilderness camping. Bring layers — nights get cold even in July.
🐎 Horseback Riding
Local stables offer guided trail rides for beginners and experienced riders alike. Explore forested hills and open meadows the old-fashioned way — with wranglers who know the terrain and history.
🛶 Lake & River Activities
Paddleboard or kayak on Lake Estes, rent a canoe at the marina, or fish the Big Thompson River. Estes offers peaceful water time with elk and osprey nearby. Rentals available lakeside or in town.
