Choose Your Own Mountain Adventure – with Riversong as Your Basecamp
Summer in Estes Park is pure magic—cool mountain mornings, wildflower-covered meadows, winding trails, and starry skies. Whether you’re craving high-alpine hikes, slow sips by the river, or family-friendly exploring, we’ve put together a flexible 3-day itinerary that makes the most of your summer stay.
Use this as a guide—and then follow what feels good. Each day offers a “Choose Your Own Adventure” approach to help you craft your perfect escape.
Day 1: Arrive, Unwind & Settle Into the Magic
Check in at RiverSong Inn Retreat and let the pace of the mountains take over.
Morning or Midday Arrival
Option A: Ease In
- Drop your bags, grab a cookie or afternoon treat from the dining room, and take a self-guided stroll along our Seven Benches Trail.
- Sit riverside with a book or journal while the Big Thompson River hums in the background.
- Try a round of outdoor chess or cornhole—or simply nap on your private patio.
Option B: Get Oriented Downtown
- Head into downtown Estes Park for lunch and a casual walk along the Riverwalk. Browse local shops, grab a scoop of ice cream, and take in the sights.
- Don’t miss Macdonald Bookshop or the historic Stanley Hotel for a fun, quirky tour.
Evening
- Return to RiverSong for a sunset moment in the patio, a soak in the hot tub, or a visit to our incredible mountain-view saunas.
- Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy stargazing from one of the open meadow benches.
For more on the best spots to catch sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing in Estes Park, check out our dedicated guide: Best Sunrises, Sunsets, and Stargazing in Estes Park.
Day 2: Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park
After a nourishing gourmet breakfast at Riversong, it’s time to hit the trails.
Option A: Active & Adventurous
Bear Lake Corridor
- Hike the Emerald Lake Trail (~3.5 miles round trip) or loop around Bear Lake for a gentle warm-up.
- Drive Trail Ridge Road (open in summer) for unbeatable high-alpine views—stop at Rock Cut or Forest Canyon Overlook.
- Bring a picnic from Riversong to enjoy at one of the scenic stops!
Option B: Scenic & Leisurely
- Drive Old Fall River Road (if open) or cruise up Trail Ridge Road at a relaxed pace, taking photos at pullouts and spotting elk or marmots.
- Stop by Holzwarth Historic Site on the west side for a step back into Colorado’s homesteading past.
Day 3: Flowers, Fishing, and Farewells
Savor your last breakfast (don’t worry—we’ll pack your leftovers if you’re headed out early) and choose one last adventure before heading home.
Option A: Nature & Nostalgia
- Take our Wildflower Spotting Guide and stroll the RiverSong grounds or nearby Lily Lake to see what’s blooming.
- Bring your coffee and maybe even a journal to the meadow and reflect before departure.
Option B: One More Mountain Moment
- Try a morning fly-fishing lesson at Moraine Park or along the river on property.
- Or take a final, short hike to Alberta Falls—a beloved classic.
Why RiverSong Makes the Perfect Home Base
- Located just minutes from RMNP’s entrance, but tucked away in peaceful seclusion
- Daily gourmet breakfast, cozy rooms, private patios, and handcrafted details
- Onsite hiking trail, privacy, games, and multiple wellness spaces
- Wildlife-friendly, welcoming, and quietly luxurious
Ready to Plan Your Summer Escape?
No matter your pace, RiverSong invites you to rest, roam, and return renewed. Whether you follow this itinerary to the letter or simply use it as inspiration, the Rockies are ready—and we’re here when you are.
👉 Book your stay today and make this the summer you slow down and soak it all in.