Crews are working to improve access to and from Rocky Mountain National Park with the Downtown Estes Loop Project.
Celebrate Isabella Bird
Isabella Bird put Estes Park on the map. Her audacious feat of summiting Longs Peak, clad in Victorian-era boots and a Hawaiian riding dress, remains etched in history. But her impact extends far beyond that.
Bird is admired for her unwavering determination and her relentless pursuit of breaking societal barriers. She fearlessly challenged the standards of her generation, inspiring countless others to embrace their own passions and defy conventions.
This year marks 150 years since Bird's time in Estes Park and her climb of the iconic peak. Join us as we honor her trailblazing legacy and pay homage to her unwavering spirit of adventure.
Learn about Isabella Bird
Events & Activities Honoring Isabella Bird
Estes Park businesses are planning fun events and activities to celebrate Bird this summer and fall. Take advantage of one while in town! And keep scrolling for exclusive Isabella Bird-themed offers!
Women of Rocky History Tours
September 11 - November 17
Focusing on local legend, Isabella Bird, this scenic bus tour will take participants on a historical adventure throughout the Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. This program will include the impacts of other European homesteading women, including Anna Wolfrom, Ida McCreery, Esther Burnell, Katherin Garetson and Amanda Blocker Byrd. Hosted by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, weekly and on demand September 11 - November 17. Get tickets here.
Thunder is the Mountain's Voice: The Story of Rocky Mountain Jim and Isabella Bird
November 3 & 4 at 7 p.m. - Reception on November 3 at 5:30 p.m.
November 5 at 2 p.m.
Don't miss the captivating play, "Thunder is the Mountain’s Voice: The Story of Rocky Mountain Jim and Isabella Bird," taking place at YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park Center. Written by acclaimed playwright Kiesa Kay over 25 years ago, this production commemorates the 150th anniversary of Isabella Bird's remarkable journey to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Experience the gripping performances by a talented 10-member cast as they bring to life the encounters between Isabella, Rocky Mountain Jim, and Griff Evans, who played a pivotal role in putting Estes Park on the map. Be transported back in time through this enthralling theatrical experience. Join us for a celebratory reception to kick it all off, on Friday, November 3 at 5:30 p.m. Get your tickets now!
Isabella Bird's Journey to Estes Park presented by Linda Batlin
November 14
Join storyteller, Linda Batlin, on November 14 at 6 p.m. as she presents Isabella Bird’s journey through Colorado. Batlin will portray the intrepid British adventurer as she brings this piece of Estes Park history to life. The program will take place in the Estes Park Museum Meeting Room, light snacks and refreshments will be provided. This program is free and open to the public of all ages.
Learn More about Bird
Step into Bird's world with a firsthand account of her adventures. Pick up a copy of her book, A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains at one of the following locations in Estes Park:
- Bear & Bee | Maker's Studio & Boutique
- Estes Valley Library
- Macdonald Book Shop
- Rocky Mountain Conservancy at the Estes Park Visitor Center
You can also read about Isabella Bird in these recent news articles:
- Following British Explorer Isabella Bird's Footsteps Through the Rockies, 150 Years Later - Smithsonian Magazine
- First Lady of the Rockies: Estes Park Celebrates Isabella Bird - 303 Magazine
And learn more from the Rocky Mountain Channel:
Isabella Bird Special Offers
Estes Park Visitor Center
500 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517 | 970-577-9900
Visit Estes Park Business Office
P.O. Box 4426, Estes Park, CO 80517
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