Summer in Estes Park is a great time to visit, there is so much going on in town and in Rocky Mountain National Park. Live music fills the air most nights downtown, while there are plenty of events celebrating the Centennial of Rocky Mountain National Park. Sunny days with scattered afternoon showers, make for a great climate for outdoor adventures.
HIKING: More than 300 miles of trails crisscross this land, including in-town paths, such as those on The Knoll, pet-friendly tracks in Roosevelt National Forest and routes throughout Rocky Mountain National Park. Some trails are great for beginners, such as Gem Lake, Bear Lake or Lake Estes Loop. Others require greater endurance - Ute Trail or Flattop Mountain, for example.
HORSEBACK RIDING:You're in cowboy country, so you oughtta ride a horse. Are outfitters lead rides from one hour to overnight. Some even offer breakfast or steak dinner rides. Other guide pack trips that take anglers to remote lakes and streams. As you giddy up along the trails in the National Park and Roosevelt National Forest, notice the wildlife and beautiful vistas. Most ages and levels of experience are welcome. Pony rides may be available for young children.
WHITEWATER RAFTING:Dip into the cool runoff of the Poudre or Colorado rivers for a day or afternoon of thrilling drops, bumps, and paddling! Several rafting companies operate out of Estes Park, although river access is out of the reach. Transportation to and from may be provided. Experienced guides help navigate through Class II and III whitewater.
PAVED SCENIC TRAILS:Several low-effort paths lead through the village, along Lake Estes and beneath stunning peaks. Bicyclists, runners and leisure walkers particularly enjoy Lake Estes Loop, which winds around the lake and connects with other Estes Valley trails.
ROCK CLIMBING: Some of the best in the world. According to avid climbers, Estes Park claims some of the top rock around. With in-town locations and favorite routes inside Rocky Mountain National Park, there are plenty of places to boulder as well as sport climb. Access is excellent, with some spots found right along the road within a few miles of downtown. For those special crags, walls and edges farther afield, professional guiding companies happily point the way or escort folks to help them get started. An indoor wall in the area provides a great venue for practicing and perfecting moves.
Follow a guide or go off on your own adventure. There are plenty opportunities `to take advantage of the outdoors in Estes and the surrounding areas. The mountains are calling. Will you answer?
