Wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is a tradition tied to Irish folklore that says wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, which like to pinch anyone they can see. No comment on the abundance of leprechauns in Estes Park (perhaps they hang out with Bigfoot?). But go ahead and wear green just in case, and while you’re at it: make your stay here a little more “green,” too.
Walk, Bike or Bus
Leaving your car behind gives you room to slow down and take in the town, plus, it’s fun! You can go so many more places than you can with your car. If biking is your chosen mode of transportation, rent at the Estes Park Mountain Shop and easily jump on the Lake Estes trail that splits off towards downtown at the Estes Park Visitor Center. If you choose lodging close to town, you can get an extra energy boost by strolling into town for coffee. And every Wednesday (which just so happens to also be St. Patrick’s Day this year) a shuttle makes the rounds from 2-5pm. The shuttle is an extra safe bet if you’re planning on downing a few pints or whiskeys post-hike.
Explore Estes’ Green Spaces
Duh! This is probably why you came to Estes in the first place, to get outside. Estes has endless trails for you to explore, here are some of our favorites. Just by immersing yourself in the outdoors, a more compassionate relationship will be nurtured with the environment as a larger being, try “nature bathing” for deeper appreciation. Here’s how to be kind on the trails and leave no trace in Estes.
Spring is an unpredictable time of year here in Estes, especially with this upcoming snowfall. One day summer looks like it could land tomorrow and then tomorrow comes and we’re in a snowglobe. It’s important to be prepared for anything.
Make Your Stay Eco-Friendly
Going green while traveling can require more planning ahead but it’s worth it. Some starter tips include skipping out on the daily room cleanings, bringing your own water bottle to fill up at the hotel and packing your own toiletries. Using the same towels and bedding save water, not running the vacuum cleaner saves energy and bringing your own toiletries and water bottle saves single-use plastic bottles from being used.
Go Digital
On vacation, it’s easy to collect map after map, brochure after brochure. Try downloading these apps beforehand to take care of the basics. While the map drop-off boxes for the National Park are closed right now due to COVID-19, that’s something to keep in mind for the future.
Reward Yourself Locally (two in one!)
Thanks for being green. You’ve earned a pint-sized reward (and no pinches!) — it is St Patrick’s Day after all. The Barrel is celebrating with Irish ales, Irish whiskey tastings, Irish food and even a Limerick competition. Keep the celebration going at Rock Cut Brewing, Lumpy Ridge Brewing, Elkins Distillery and/or try some whiskey from Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys from the Stanley Whiskey Bar. Sláinte!
