Many people may not have even heard of Estes Park, Colorado.
However, it is home to some of the greatest scenery this country has to offer — and that isn’t the only thing this beautiful town has to offer. Between the food, the nature, and even being a major destination for horror movie fans, Estes Park has just about everything. This town has been named the greatest mountain town in America by publications such as Sunset since 2018. Here are our 5 reasons that the title is justified.
1. Proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park
It’s called ‘The Rockies’ for a reason. Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with rocks, mountains, and steep climbs that hikers (both amateur and veteran) will come to adore. The town serves as a “base camp” for the national park, let us tell you: your breath will be taken away at the sight of these locations (or perhaps it’s just the high altitude). The park has multiple entrances, but we would recommend taking the Bear Lake entrance (fee required). You will park at a lot and take a shuttle bus up to Bear Lake, which serves as a gateway for multiple hikes that will give you plenty to do and see.
2. Never-ending Outdoor Activities
Do you want to do something else besides hiking? You are in luck. Estes Park is packed to the brim with outdoor activities — just about anything you think. Fly fishing at the Big Thompson River, archery lessons, cross-country skiing, or even paddle boarding in Lake Estes, there’s something for everyone here.
3. Horror Movie Fan?
Fans of the popular horror film The Shining may know that the hotel the film was based on, The Stanley Hotel (pictured above), is located right in the middle of downtown Estes Park. While the filming location wasn’t actually at the Stanley, it was Stephen King’s idea to write the original novel after staying a night at this iconic hotel. The hotel itself is said to be haunted, so much so that acclaimed actor Jim Carrey reportedly booked a room here, but only lasted 3 hours before getting the creeps and dashing out. Since then, he refuses to talk about it during interviews and will get up and walk away if asked about it. Ominous.
4. The Charming Downtown
As with most charming mountain towns, Estes Park has a beautiful downtown of its own. It includes a charming ‘river walk’, where many shops back into and becomes a beautiful place for families and children to walk around. There is also plenty to eat, see, and do — from breweries to ample gift shops to good restaurants, there is something for everyone. Take a break from the strenuous hikes and outdoor activities to enjoy yourself in this beautiful area. If you’re looking for good food to warm you up on a cold Colorado day, we’d highly recommend Himalayan Curry & Kabob located in downtown.
5. A Perfect Year-Round Destination
Don’t let the mountainous atmosphere fool you: this location is nearly perfect for a year-round visit, no matter the season or time of year. While those who are preferring to do specific outdoor activities should wait for better weather, there is still a plethora of family-friendly things to do in the city. Spend colder days hiking in warm clothes, and warmer days going rafting in the river. If anything else, you can witness the vast array of wildlife, such as Elk or Moose, casually perusing all around town, even in the downtown crosswalks!
