COME TO LIFE / Close to Paradise: Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park 2 1 4 3 Estes Park is the gateway into the national park, but it’s also a destination unto itself. Stop by The Barrel (3) , a seasonal alfresco beer garden, and window-shop along Elkhorn Avenue (4) , Estes Park’s bustling main thoroughfare, with one-of-a-kind stores, several restaurants and plenty of places for an afternoon snack. Stop for coffee and sit outside on the Riverwalk . CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: THE STANLEY HOTEL; ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, KENNAN HARVEY; VISIT ESTES PARK; THE BARREL; WHISKEY, ISTOCKPHOTO; VISIT ESTES PARK; OPEN AIR ADVENTURE PARK. WINTER FUN T From extreme sports such as ice climbing and backcountry split-boarding and skiing to more relaxed activities like snowshoeing and curling up by the fire, Estes Park also caters to winter vis-itors. It’s easy to get there year-round and offers an alternative to the bustling ski resorts. AFTERNOON One block off Elkhorn, the beautifully landscaped path follows the Big Thompson River as it flows through town and hosts street performers in the summer. Take the path east for a tranquil walk around Lake Estes, or stop at the marina to rent bikes, pontoon boats, paddleboards or kayaks. Then, enjoy a tasting at Snowy Peaks Winery , the new Elkins Distilling Company tasting room or the new Rock Cut Brewing Company or Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. , a former gas station with a scenic beer garden and new brews on tap regularly. Or stop into Via Bicycle Cafe , part cycling shop and hangout, part coffee-nerd hot spot. EVENING Wind down with dinner at the storied Stanley Hotel (2) , an elegant 105-year-old, white-pil-lared landmark. Guided ghost tours reveal how Stephen King was inspired to write The Shining while staying in room 217. Stop by the beautifully crafted antique Cascades Whis-key Bar to choose from 250 different wine labels and the largest whiskey collection in the state. STAY & PLAY OPTIONS Allenspark , Estes Park (page 202), Lyons 122 / COLORADO.COM
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2017: Page 122
