Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park / COME TO LIFE 1 3 6 4 5 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GLACIER GORGE IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, KENNAN HARVEY; THE STANLEY HOTEL, JONATHAN PHILLIPS; DOWNTOWN, VISIT ESTES PARK; SNOWSHOEING, TOM BOL; BIG THOMPSON RIVER, JONATHAN PHILLIPS; LAKE ESTES, O’HARA PHOTO. WINTER FUN T From ice climbing, backcountry split-boarding and skiing to more relaxed activities like snow-shoeing and curling up by the fire, Estes Park caters to winter visitors. It’s easy to get there year-round and offers an alternative to the bustling ski resorts. Connect with Estes Park Mountain Shop and Kent Mountain Adventure Center for all the gear and guidance you may need. afternoon snack. Stop for coffee and sit outside on the Riverwalk . One block off Elkhorn, the path follows the Big Thompson River (5) as it flows through town and hosts street performers in the summer. Take the path east for a tranquil walk around Lake Estes (4) , or stop at the marina to rent bikes, pontoon boats, paddleboards or kayaks. Then, enjoy a tasting at Snowy Peaks Winery , Elkins Distilling Co. , Rock Cut Brewing Company or Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. , a former gas station with a beer garden and new brews on tap regularly. Keep an eye out for the Two Chicks Wings & Hen-house food truck, usually parked near Rock Cut (despite the name, these chicks have excellent vegetarian options). EVENING Wind down with dinner at the storied Stanley Hotel (3) , an elegant 109-year-old, white-pillared 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. Newer to Estes Park’s dining scene, the farm-to-table cuisine from Seasoned – An American Bistro and Bird & Jim ’s artisan approach have locals raving. SIDETRIPS Depending on your approach, you might go through lovely Lyons on your way to Estes. With galleries and public art on nearly every corner, an epic summer music venue (Planet Bluegrass) and plenty of craft beer, this small town is worth a stop. Tubers and kayakers roll through the white-water park and the Dirt Jump Bike Track lets you show off your trick-riding skills. STAY & PLAY OPTIONS Allenspark , Estes Park (page 197), Lyons (page 202) COLORADO.COM / 125
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2020: Page 125
