Planning how to spend a day in Estes Park is easy if you know what your options are and are prepared for the season that you’ll be visiting.
We asked our guests, read through our Trip Advisor and Yelp Reviews and crafted ideas to help you plan the perfect day in Estes Park, our beloved mountain town. Estes Park, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is a picturesque town that offers breathtaking beauty and a wealth of outdoor activities throughout the year. Whether you’re visiting in winter, spring, summer, or fall, each season brings its own unique charm to this mountain paradise.
In this post, we’ll guide you through a day in Estes Park, showcasing some of the best activities and experiences for every season.
Note: Timings and seasons mentioned are approximate and can be adjusted based on personal preferences and the duration of activities.
For additional support in planning your perfect day in Estes, we’ve also included Insider Tips and Hidden Gems while exploring Estes park here.
Winter Wonderland
Wintertime in Estes Park is a magical time. The town is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, and the snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop for the town’s many activities. There are plenty of things to do in Estes Park in the winter, from skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the national park. And of course, no winter vacation would be complete without a visit to the Estes Park Winter Festival, where you can indulge in local cuisine, participate in snowshoeing or ice climbing, and admire stunning ice sculptures. Finally, cozy up by a fireplace in one of the town’s charming lodges or enjoy a hot chocolate at a local cafe.
“For a day in Estes Park in winter would start with a hot cup of coffee and a pastry from one of the many local shops. Then, I would head out to explore the park on snowshoes or cross-country skis. There are miles of trails to choose from, and the scenery is always stunning. After a morning of exploring, I would stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants that offer outdoor seating. In the afternoon, I would go ice skating at Lake Estes or take a sleigh ride through the park. In the evening, I would relax by the fire with a good book or a game of cards.”
J. Morris
A Day in Estes Park: Winter Wonderland Itinerary:
7:00 AM: Wake up to a winter wonderland in Estes Park at Romantic RiverSong Inn. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, savoring warm pancakes or a steaming bowl of oatmeal.
8:00 AM: Bundle up and embark on a scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. Take in the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and keep an eye out for wildlife.
10:00 AM: Head to the Estes Park Winter Festival. Participate in snowshoeing or ice climbing activities, marvel at intricate ice sculptures, and warm up with hot cocoa or mulled cider.
1:00 PM: Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a cozy restaurant in town. Savor hearty soups, grilled sandwiches, or comfort food favorites.
2:30 PM: Visit the Estes Park Museum to learn about the town’s history, local wildlife, and cultural heritage. Gain insights into the area’s rich past and its impact on the present.
4:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk, admiring the frozen river and charming shops. Explore the unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir stores.
6:00 PM: As the day winds down, find a cozy spot by a fireplace in one of Estes Park’s lodges. Enjoy a good book, play board games, or simply relax with a warm drink.
Spring Awakening
Springtime in Estes Park is a beautiful time to visit. The snow has mostly melted, the flowers are blooming, and the animals are coming back out to play. The weather is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, strolling through the town or picnics in the park. There are also many festivals and events happening in Estes Park during the spring, such as the Rocky Mountain National Park Wildflower Festival.
“A day in Estes Park in Spring starts with a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the wildflowers are in bloom. After a few hours of hiking, you head back to town for lunch at one of the many restaurants. In the afternoon, you take a drive along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at overlooks to take in the views of the mountains and valleys. In the evening, you enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant with a view of the lake. After dinner, you take a walk around town, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights.”
-Sharon Hansen
A Day in Estes Park: Spring Awakening Itinerary:
8:00 AM: Wake up to the fresh spring air and have a light breakfast. Pack a backpack with water, snacks, and essentials for your day’s adventures.
9:00 AM: Lace up your hiking boots and head to Gem Lake Trail. Embark on a moderate hike, reveling in the beautiful wildflowers, scenic views, and the sight of the cascading waterfall.
12:00 PM: Take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch amid the serene beauty of Lily Lake. Bask in the tranquility and listen to the sounds of nature.
2:00 PM: Explore the grounds of the historic Stanley Hotel, famous for its role in inspiring Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Take a guided ghost tour to learn about the hotel’s intriguing history.
4:00 PM: Visit the Estes Park Aerial Tramway and take a ride to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Capture stunning photos and enjoy the refreshing mountain breeze.
6:30 PM: As the day comes to a close, head to Lake Estes for a peaceful sunset walk along the lakeshore. Witness the vibrant colors of the setting sun reflecting on the water.
Summer Escape
Summertime in Estes Park is a time for adventure. The sun shines brightly, the air is crisp and clean, and the mountains are calling your name. There are endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, wildlife watching and more. And when you’re ready to relax, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in town, or take a nap by one of the many lakes. Estes Park is the perfect place to create memories that will last a lifetime.
“A day in Estes Park in the summertime would start with watching the sunrise and hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Spend the afternoon fly fishing in the Big Thompson River or kayaking on Lake Estes. If you’re feeling adventurous, go rock climbing or zip-lining for an adrenaline rush. In the evening, catch a live music performance at Performance Park, followed by a delightful dinner at one of Estes Park’s renowned restaurants and take a walk around town. Be sure to stay at Romantic RiverSong Inn for the best nights sleep ever.”
-Nate Morgan
A Day in Estes Park: Summer Escape Itinerary
6:00 AM: Wake up early to catch the sunrise and start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe. Grab some snacks, sunscreen, and water for your outdoor adventures.
7:00 AM: Begin your day with a hike to Dream Lake or Bear Lake. Marvel at the breathtaking sunrise views mirrored in the calm waters, surrounded by towering peaks.
10:00 AM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend the morning exploring the tranquil waters of Lake Estes. Enjoy the cool breeze and stunning mountain views.
12:30 PM: Refuel with a delicious lunch at a lakeside picnic area. Unwind and recharge while savoring a packed meal amidst the beauty of nature.
2:00 PM: For adrenaline seekers, go rock climbing at Lumpy Ridge or soar through the trees on a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Feel the rush of excitement in the pristine mountain setting.
5:00 PM: Head to Performance Park for an evening of live music. Relax on the grassy lawn and let the melodies of local musicians and bands wash over you.
7:30 PM: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of Estes Park’s renowned restaurants. Indulge in locally sourced cuisine, from farm-to-table dishes to mouthwatering steaks or fresh seafood.
Note: Timings mentioned are approximate and can be adjusted based on personal preferences and the duration of activities.
Fall Foliage
Estes Park’s fall foliage is nothing short of spectacular, as the mountains transform into a tapestry of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows and there are plenty of activities to enjoy with often smaller crowds than the peak of summer.. You can go hiking, biking, fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery in perfect weather.. Estes Park is also a great place to go apple picking or pumpkin picking. And, of course, you can’t forget to visit the Stanley Hotel, which was the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. Complete your day with a visit to a local winery, where you can savor a glass of wine while enjoying panoramic views of the changing leaves.
“A day in Estes Park in the fall is to start coffee in hand and take a stroll around Sprague Lake or Gem Lake. The leaves are changing color, and the views are stunning. After your hike, head back to town for lunch at one of the many restaurants and listen to the elk bugle in the park. In the afternoon, take a drive to Chapel Rock and admire the scenery or go do a ghost tour at the Stanley Hotel. In the evening, stroll through the town, grab some pulled taffy, good food and souvenirs and enjoy a bonfire and some stargazing.”
-Candice Crowther
A Day in Estes Park: Fall Foliage Itinerary
8:00 AM: Wake up to crisp fall air and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a charming cafe. Sip on a warm cup of coffee and plan your day amidst the vibrant colors of autumn.
9:00 AM: Drive along the picturesque Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. Stop at various viewpoints to capture the stunning fall foliage and panoramic mountain vistas.
11:00 AM: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a hike to Alberta Falls. Immerse yourself in the golden aspen groves, marveling at the vibrant hues of the leaves.
1:00 PM: Treat yourself to a picnic lunch at a scenic spot in the park. Breathe in the crisp fall air while enjoying sandwiches, salads, and local treats.
3:00 PM: Visit a local winery and indulge in a wine tasting experience. Savor the flavors of Colorado wines while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding autumn landscape.
5:00 PM: Capture the golden hour by finding a serene spot overlooking a meadow or lake. Witness the magical play of sunlight on the multicolored foliage as the day draws to a close.
7:00 PM: Dine at a cozy restaurant that offers seasonal specialties. Relish a delicious meal accompanied by a glass of local wine, celebrating the flavors of fall.
To help with planning a day in Estes Park, we’ve also written about important tips for travelers and hidden gems of Estes Park.
No matter the season, Estes Park offers a perfect day for every nature lover and adventurer. From winter wonderland to spring awakening, summer escape to fall foliage, each season unveils its own unique experiences and natural beauty. Embrace the rhythm of the seasons and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting mountain town. Estes Park is truly a year-round destination that will leave you longing to return and explore its ever-changing wonders again and again.
If you had one day to spend in Estes Park, what would you do and where would you explore?
Remember to book your room with us for the perfect ending to your day and we hope to see you soon!