Family Hike Elk

36 Winter Hours in Estes Park

It just might be Colorado’s best-kept winter secret. While the rest of the state is battling traffic on I-70 in an attempt to be the first on the slopes, Estes Park – best known for its close proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park – is free of crowds but full of fun. Think of it as your…

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5 Estes Park Cycling Routes You Haven't Pedaled

In my career with the Town of Estes Park I have lots of opportunities to talk with our guests. I typically steer our conversations on what activity brings them to town and I’ve started to notice a pattern. The answers are almost always hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, climbing and a myriad…

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New Girl in Estes - My First Snowshoe

One of the perks of living in Estes is that everyone wants to visit. Not long ago, my boyfriend and I hosted three couples—close friends of his, each coming from different states. They all possessed varying levels of athletic abilities, cold-weather tolerance and zest for adventure. Snowshoeing, we…

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5 Best Hikes for a Windy Day

Estes is known for many things: Rocky Mountain National Park, The Stanley Hotel, its small-town charm, and yes, the wind. Our location at 7,522 feet and tucked into one of the most majestic mountain ranges in the world, means we get 300 days of sunshine; unparalleled views; and, from time to time…

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New Girl in Estes - First Colorado Winter

We’re kicking off 2017 with a new blog series, which looks at Estes through the eyes of newcomer and journalist, Stephanie Granada. We will follow along as she embarks on snowy adventures for the first time and shares how this beach girl stands up to life in the mountains. Most beach natives don’t…

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Things You Haven't Tried in Estes During the Summer

I have lived in Estes Park for two years, but have been a summer visitor since childhood. Certainly other seasons have their perks, but warm weather is what I am waiting for, and what I dream of when I think of living in the mountains. There is so much to anticipate: wildflowers, ocean blue skies…

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