Estes Park Blog

The 4 th of July is one of the highlights of the summer—here’s how to do it right Fill up on Freedom Start the day off with an all-American breakfast before heading out to the day’s events with a 4th of July pancake breakfast . Held at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, the Independence Day Pancake Breakfast goes from 7:00 to 10:30 am and breakfast is only $8 for adults and $5 for children. Save a... more

The snowy season in Estes Park offers a winter wonderland just waiting to be explored! Not only does the scenery take on a whole new look, but traffic is lighter and lodging can be found for a bargain, allowing you to tack on another night to your stay! Trail Ridge Road may be closed at high elevations, but Estes is still easily accessible via two well-maintained highways. Highway 36 is a breathtakingly scenic canyon, or take the... more

For a small mountain village, Estes Park’s craft beverage scene is enormous – and it seems to be growing with each passing year. Now is the right time to discover what’s brewing (and distilling, and fermenting) up here. SPIRITS Elkins Distilling Co. 1825 North Lake Ave., (419) 575-1704 The people behind Elkins Distilling Co. aren’t the first to make whiskey in Estes Park – we’re pretty sure a few... more

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 affordable mountain village escape, just a short, scenic drive from Denver and Boulder (and only 90 minutes from Denver... more

Every week leading up to Christmas, celebrate the season with holiday shopping in Estes Park during Festive Fridays! Enjoy special offers, live music and treats when you shop participating businesses. Not only is this a great opportunity to pick up the perfect gifts for your loved ones, it's also a fantastic way to shop local, supporting small businesses in Estes Park. Take a break between shops to view the... more

From unique arts to sweet treats, from jaw-droppers to socking suffers, Estes Park has a widevariety of special gifts that are made right here in the Estes Valley! The festive lights are strung downtown, the shops have decorated their windows andthe entire village is buzzing with holiday spirit. But don't worry if you can't make it to Estes this year; many of these one-of-a-kind gifts are available online. Whether you're... more

Every year my parents host (along with two other couples) their grandkids for something they call 'Gramp'. They plan activities, outings and games for the kids over a long weekend. Sounds amazing, and it is, but not everyone can possibly contrive such an involved event. For those who want to have that incredible bonding experience, but without the stress of hosting, a grandparent vacation may be just the trick.  Traveling... more

September 30th is the start of Vintage Market Days a biannual, three day, bohemian chic event in Estes Park, and who needs a better excuse to gather up your besties and head for the hills? Not me. While I have the privilege of living in Estes Park, I'm always looking for reasons to entice my friends and family to visit. This event is just what we've been waiting for and it the perfect way to get a jump on my... more

James Frank is an accomplished visual artist of the natural world. His photographs have been used in advertising for national companies, and receive wide publication in all media. Learn more about James in his Artist Profile below or check out James Frank Photography . Age:  62 Artform/Known for? Photography of the landscape and nature is what I'm known for best. How long have you lived in Estes Park? 38 years Where is your... more

Erik Stensland frequently rises long before dawn to hike to remote lakes or high peaks to capture the unparalleled beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park in warm morning light. Learn more about Erik in this Artist Profile or check out his gallery Images of RMNP .   Age: 47   Artform/Known for? Landscape Photography   How long have you lived in Estes Park? I’ve lived in the Estes Park area for 12 years, six... more