Sometimes, nothing is more fun or refreshing than a girls’ trip with your best friends. When you’re ready to get out of town and enjoy something new and exciting alongside your favorite people, a trip to Estes Park is the perfect option! Whether you’re hoping to relax, explore the great outdoors, or shop your way through a stay, Estes Park has it all to offer.

Infuse a Spa Day into Your Girls’ Getaway

Spending time with your friends for a girls’ trip to Estes Park is always a treat and when you could all use some time focusing on rest and relaxation, fitting a spa day or two into the itinerary is a great place to start. Estes Park is packed with options for restorative pampering and the spas here come with the added benefit of being surrounded by stunning scenery. A spa day is a sensational way to get centered and Zen when your girls’ trip could use a little time focused on mind, body, and soul rejuvenation. A few of the top spa destinations in the area to consider include The Qi Lounge Wellness Spa at 1700 Colorado Peaks Drive, Affinity Massage & Wellness Center at 312 E. Elkhorn, and Elements of Touch Wellness Spa at 477 Pine River Lane. Hands Down Best in Town Therapeutic Massage is another great option headquartered at 250 Moraine Avenue. Each of these spa options offers up a unique aesthetic for guests to enjoy, but the services provided are always sure to inspire. Guests can enjoy everything from specialized massages and wraps to exfoliating skincare, facials, and hot stone therapies too. Whether you’re in the mood for a seaweed wrap or a green tea glow skin treatment, you’ll find the spa options in Estes Park check every box on the list.

Spend Quality Time Shopping

When a little retail therapy would go a long way toward the overall fun of your girls’ trip, Estes Park is happy to deliver. Here, visitors will find a plethora of stores and boutique shops to explore hosting everything from apparel and home goods to outdoor recreation equipment, souvenirs, and crafts to name a few of many. Downtown Estes Park is a popular place to set your shopping sights when you’re looking for an area that has eateries and galleries built into the mix as well. Looking to enjoy thrift shops, crystal stores, tea shops, chocolate shops, and more while you’re in town with your friends? Estes Park has them all!

Explore the Great Outdoors

A girls’ trip to Estes Park is the perfect time to incorporate plenty of outdoor exploration into the adventure. If you and your crew are the types that are ready to lace up their boots and hit the scenic trails in style, Estes Park is packed with potential for fun. Known and loved as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, those who are excited to adventure through the great outdoors will find there’s no shortage of trails or outdoor recreational activities to access. From trails that lead to alpine lakes to those that include waterfalls along the way, the opportunities to savor the sights are truly incredible. Don’t miss out on a chance to explore the visitor’s center at the top of Trail Ridge Road where you can admire the exhibits and displays or sign up for a guided hiking experience. A trek to Alberta Falls is always fantastic while summiting Mount Lady Washington is a feat that’s a must-try for those who are experienced and looking for a challenge.

Try a Stanley Hotel Spirit Tour

Notorious for its role as Stephen King’s inspiration for The Shining, the Stanley Hotel is a must-visit when your girls’ trip could use a little otherworldly wonder included. The hotel is fascinating on its own, but they also offer a walking tour through this more than a 100-year-old hotel at night focused on spirit folklore and phenomena. Your guide will give you insight into the hotel’s past and some of the more incredible stories that are told here regularly regarding the paranormal! It’s a heart-pounding tour you won’t want to miss.

Dine at Ed’s Cantina

When margaritas and tacos would hit the spot after a day of fun, make sure your girls’ trip to Estes Park includes a meal at Ed’s Cantina. Located at 390 Elkhorn Avenue, this vibrant and welcoming eatery serves up savory Mexican bites in a setting that’s fun and friendly. While the traditional menu options are sure to be palate-pleasing, guests can also find a variety of vegan and gluten-free options to enjoy, making this a great dining stop for everyone in your crew.

Book Your Girls’ Trip to Estes Park Today

Make more of your girls’ trip away when you set your travel sights on Estes Park and let the team at Mountain Village at Lake Estes handle your luxurious accommodations while you’re here. Reach out to learn more and to start planning today!

When you have a trip planned to Estes Park, it’s likely that the itinerary is packed with outdoor fun and adventure. But for all of the opportunities for amazing recreation this area offers up freely, visitors will find it’s a place just as suitable for pampered and relaxing moments! The following are some of the top-rated spas in Estes Park to check out the next time you’re in town. Balancing out adventure with some well-earned time resting and relaxing in style promises to be a worthwhile way to spend some time in the mountains the next time travel plans bring you in this direction.

Experience the Qi Lounge Wellness Spa at the Estes Park Resort

The natural beauty of a trip to Estes Park is always exciting, but pair it with the luxurious services available at Qui Lounge Wellness Spa and travelers are in for a true and refreshing treat. Located at 1700 Colorado Peaks Drive, the Qui Lounge Wellness Spa is situated within the greater Estes Park Resort and is open to guests looking to feel and look their best year-round. Here, it’s a simple thing for visitors to leave their worries behind as they partake in treatment options designed to restore and inspire. The setting is warm and welcoming while the on-site staff is notoriously friendly and inviting. Booking a session at the Qi Lounge Wellness Spa during a trip to Estes Park means having options to pick and choose from facials and massage therapy to acupuncture, couple’s massages, and more. When you make time to pamper yourself here, you’ll be in for an experience that speaks to your mind, body, and soul alike. It’s hard to imagine anything better or more worthwhile to add to your itinerary the next time you’re in town.

Make Time to Enjoy Hands Down Best in Town Therapeutic Massage

Located at 477 Moraine Avenue, the Hands Down Best in Town Therapeutic Massage center is another sensational option to add to the list when you’re looking to enhance your Estes Park stay with some well-deserved relaxation and pampered fun. The serenity of the mountains is always within reach at Hands Down Best in Town. Here, the massage studio is staffed by professionals who are always focused on providing quality therapeutic massage services that are customized to fit guest needs. Visitors booking a session are invited to choose a preferred massage style and then mix and match add-ons that make the experience truly refreshing and one-of-a-kind. Options here include hot and cold stone treatments, aromatherapy, body and face cupping as well as hot towels and dry brushings to promote lymphatic drainage and improved circulation. Hands Down Best in Town Therapeutic Massage even offers acupuncture on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays.

Enjoy Quality Time at Affinity Massage & Wellness Center

Drop by 312 E. Elkhorn while you’re in Estes Park to make the most of time well-spent at Affinity Massage & Wellness Center. Here, the focus is on establishing a sense of well-being as well as serenity and relaxation with every visit. Treatment options available to guests are designed to not only rejuvenate and revitalize the body but revive the mind and spirit as well. A location on the downtown river walk makes Affinity Massage & Wellness Spa an easy addition to any day out and about. There are three treatment rooms on site as well as a couple’s room for those who are looking to enjoy a massage in tandem. Service options at Affinity Massage & Wellness Center include traditional massage, Swedish relaxation massages, couples massage, deep tissue therapy, raindrop techniques, prenatal massage, neuromuscular therapy, cupping, and reflexology alike.

Book a Session at Elements of Touch Spa

Easily found at 477 Pine River Lane, Elements of Touch Spa is a sensational place to find a refreshing and pampered moment in Estes Park. Time spent here is designed to bring visitors an authentic feeling of harmony as well as powerful healing results. The mountain setting only adds to the experience where the focus is on breath and body alike. Massage therapy is a specialty at Elements of Touch Spa, but packages are also available that include soaks, wraps, exfoliating treatments, and gem stone hot rock treatments too.

Book Your Estes Park Adventure Today

Finding time to get away from the daily routine and enjoy time away in scenic Estes Park is always worth a traveler’s while. Knowing you have incredible accommodations in place during your stay makes it that much better! Reach out to the team of property professionals at Mountain Village a Lake Estes today to learn more about our exciting vacation rental options in the area and how we can help you turn travel plans into a reality. Our versatile portfolio of options not only meets your needs but exceeds expectations at every turn too. We look forward to welcoming you to Colorado soon.

Finding a beautiful and exciting vacation destination to enjoy is simple for travelers who set their sights on Estes Park. This amazing stop is a fan-favorite for adventurers year-round looking to make the most of outdoor recreation and the mountain views to match. Estes Park is also a place where fantastic flavors can be found no matter when you arrive in town. Whether time on the trails or the slopes has left you with a craving to curb, there’s no place here quite like Dunraven at The Estes Park Resort. When Italian fare is what you’re looking to enjoy and a side of steak and seafood would go a long way too, this eatery has the best of it all. Dunraven is also a destination where guests enjoying a meal will find an impressive wine list as well as handcrafted cocktails that hit the spot. Serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, those who enjoy a meal at Dunraven will find that no matter when they arrive, savory moments await!

A Legacy of Flavor in the Mountains

For more than 40 years, Dunraven has been delighting guests with a vast menu of delicious options in Estes Park and breathtaking views to top off every meal in style. This restaurant in Estes Park is known and loved for its top-notch customer service as well as its prime location on the shores of Lake Estes. While the menu may have changed over time, the Dunraven commitment to quality and world-class flavor has always been unwavering. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come and gather to enjoy a great meal in great company no matter when they find themselves in Estes Park. While the traditional menu here is sure to inspire, guests will find that there are plenty of gluten-free options to choose from as well, making Dunraven an all-inclusive dining experience.

Perhaps one of the more notable aspects of Dunraven’s décor is the multitude of dollar bills that line the walls, floor-to-ceiling! This unique take on interior aesthetics dates back to the 1970s when a customer left a good luck note on a dollar bill addressed to the restaurant’s owner. From that time on, guests continued leaving dollar bills with notes written on them for the restaurant to hang. Today, it’s a beloved tradition that continues to thrive and keeps Dunraven one-of-a-kind in every way! As bills begin to fade or rip, the restaurant takes time to donate them to local charities. The wall of bills throughout the entryway and bar is a great way to incorporate a personalized touch for everyone who walks through the door of this restaurant!

Guests who enjoy a meal at Dunraven will also note the abundance of Mona Lisa images throughout the space as well. This is another tradition that speaks to a well-established legacy in Estes Park. When the restaurant in Estes Park first opened, the owners invested in three pieces of Mona Lisa-inspired art at a garage sale to hang on the walls. Since that time, the Mona Lisa collection has continued to grow and today occupies the display space in the lounge. It’s a fun and whimsical way to invite guests to gather, settle in, and enjoy a drink or two in artistic company.

Menu Favorites

No matter what time of day guests arrive at Dunraven, they’ll find they have delicious menu options well within reach. Those who make their way here as part of the breakfast crowd can enjoy everything from omelets and bacon strips to breakfast burritos, avocado toast, fried chicken and gravy, or an Italian skillet just to name a few. While homemade biscuits and gravy are sure to please, those with a sweet tooth to satisfy won’t want to miss out on the buttermilk pancakes or French toast.

If a lunch experience at Dunraven is what you’re looking for, start with appetizers like the artichoke dip and crispy Brussel sprouts before moving on to main dishes that range from lasagna and parmesans to shrimp scampi or grilled salmon.

Throughout the lunch and dinner hours, guests can also enjoy a variety of homemade sandwiches, and decadent salads upon request. Steak is a fan-favorite selection for dinner while side options here include everything from onion rings and saffron rice to seasonal veggies and whipped potatoes.

Plan Your Delicious Visit to This Restaurant in Estes Park

When you’re putting together your Estes Park adventure, be sure to add a stop at Dunraven to the must-try list. The restaurant is conveniently located at 1700 Colorado Peaks Drive and is open Monday through Sunday from 7:00 am until 9:00 pm. Breakfast runs from 7:00 am until 2:00 pm while dinner is served 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Happy Hour is on daily between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Reservations are highly recommended and those planning a private event can book the Tuscan Room, which hosts up to 40 at a time, in advance.

Book Your Estes Park Adventure Today

Make more of your Estes Park getaway when you have amazing accommodations to enjoy while you’re here. Reach out to Mountain Village at Lake Estes to learn more about our luxurious options and to start planning your next trip!

Estes Park is always an exciting vacation destination for travelers to enjoy. However, those who decide to head this way for a one-of-a-kind New Year’s in Estes Park celebration are in for a treat! Whether you’re looking to dance your way into the new year, or you prefer to mark milestones with savory moments, there’s something wonderful and inspiring waiting for you here. The following are just a few reasons you’re going to want to ring in 2023 in Estes Park this year!

Attend the Crystal Ball

One of the most iconic stops to visit in Estes Park year-round is the beautiful and historic Stanley Hotel. Packed with legacy and legend, this hotel is truly one-of-a-kind. On New Year’s Eve, the hotel will once again be hosting their annual Crystal Ball which is an exciting and elegant event you won’t want to miss! Ring in the new year in style at this ball which features everything from live music and great company to drinks, food, dancing, and more. This year will mark the hotel’s 20^th annual Crystal Ball event at 333 Wonderview Avenue. This year, Photon and FashionNation DJs will be taking to the stage much to the delight of guests. Tickets can be purchased online starting at $215 per person and dinner is included in the cost. Dinner is served at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm before the party fun kicks off at 9:00 pm and continues on into the early morning hours.

Dance Your Way into 2023 at YMCA of the Rockies

If you happen to be heading to Estes Park with the entire family in tow to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year, consider adding a family dance experience to your itinerary! The YMCA of the Rockies will be hosting a New Year’s Eve Family Dance event on December 31, 2022 starting at 8:00 pm and running through 10:00 pm. The event will be hosted at the Estes Park Center within the Longhouse Building and can be accessed with the purchase of a YMCA day pass. Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to dance your way into the New Year alongside those you love most. This event also includes snacks, drinks, plenty of craft stations for little ones, and a ball drop to officially ring in 2023. Before you go, make sure to end the evening with a driving tour of the YMCA Flower Circle area. This time of year, the cabins are decorated in their holiday best and the lights are sure to put you in a vibrant New Year’s spirit! If you’re dropping by earlier in the day to enjoy some holiday fun prior to the dance party, consider enjoying ice skating here too. The rink is open December through February and children 6 and under can skate for free.

Head Over to Bird & Jim for a Savory New Year’s Moment

If you’re the type of traveler that defines the success of a holiday away by the savory moments included, enjoying a New Year’s Eve meal at Bid & Jim is a must. Located at 915 Moraine Avenue, this casual Estes Park eatery will be offering visitors options to enjoy a four-course holiday meal in-house with reservations in advance. Book your table and settle into culinary style this New Year’s Eve with course offering that feature the best of hearty mountain fare alongside sophisticated side stylings. The menu also provides options for wine pairings upon request.

Book a Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

While it’s easy to assume that warm weather trips to Estes Park are the best time to tour the National Parks, New Year’s is just as suitable for those who have the right guide lined up. This New Year’s in Estes Park, consider booking a guided Rocky Mountain National Park tour to ring in the New Year in adventurous style through Wildside 4×4. This company has the distinct honor of possessing an off-road permit that provides access to all of Estes Park. National Park Tours can be booked year-round and winter experiences come with their own spectacular views and insight offered up by knowledgeable and friendly guides. New Year’s tours can be booked with a focus on photography if guests choose, as well as short treks along the way to eye-catching stops like icy lakes and waterfalls. Water, snacks, and hot cocoa are all provided in the cost of a New Year’s tour.

Book an Estes Park Adventure Today

Making time to enjoy Estes Park is a good idea no matter when travel plans bring you in this direction. Travelers that are ready to infuse luxury, style, and comfort into their holiday stay too will find what they’re looking for and more when they partner with Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Reach out today to learn more about our many exciting property options available. We can’t wait to welcome you to Estes Park over the holidays.

If your idea of a perfect Thanksgiving adventure includes amazing wildlife spotting, snow-capped mountain peaks, and festivities to fit the season, booking a trip to Estes Park promises to inspire! Whether you’re looking to enjoy holiday parades, focus on the food, or make the most of indulgent relaxation this year, Estes Park has something exciting waiting for everyone. The following are a few of the reasons you’ll want to book your stay for Thanksgiving in Estes Park today!

Attend the 10^th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

If your Thanksgiving stay in Estes Park bring you to town just a little earlier than the holiday itself, you’ll find you’re just in time to enjoy the 10th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! In 2022, this highly-anticipated local event will be held on November 19^th from 3:30 pm through 5:30 pm. The tree lighting always happens the weekend before Thanksgiving in Estes Park at the George Hix Riverside Plaza downtown.  Live music adds to the fun holiday ambiance while participants will find everything from kid’s craft centers to wagon rides available to be enjoyed. There will also be free hot chocolate and cookies for all as well as pictures with Santa and llamas to check out! The tree lighting happens at 5:30 and activities are free of charge. If you choose to donate, proceeds go to the Blue Santa program which serves the elderly and disabled across Estes Park.

Check Out the Estes Park Holiday Wine Festival

Those looking to incorporate some delicious flavor into their holiday fun in Estes Park this year will find the 3^rd Annual Estes Park Holiday Wine Festival to be a great addition to the itinerary. Held on November 26^th and 27^th, this festival is a fantastic follow-up to the Thanksgiving festivities and will be hosted at the Estes Park Events Complex at 1125 Rooftop Way. The fun kicks off at 11:00 am Saturday and continues through 4:00 pm Sunday. On-site, guests will find over 100 wines produced in the state of Colorado to check out. The festival also hosts craft vendors for those looking to get a head start on holiday shopping. Every ticket purchased to this festival includes a commemorative wine glass as well as a tote and unlimited tasting options during the festival. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Enjoy the Catch the Glow Parade

Another fan-favorite event that takes place in Estes Park the day after Thanksgiving is the Catch the Glow Parade! This family-friendly experience will happen on November 25, 2022, beginning at 5:30 pm. The parade makes its way down Elkhorn Avenue and includes options for visitors to meet with Santa and explore a greater downtown area after that’s decked out in its holiday best. The parade is filled with handcrafted gloats to enjoy and also includes specialty vehicles, fire trucks, and marching bands as well. Typically, over 20,000 people show up to enjoy this exciting event so make sure to stake out your spot early.

Have a Thanksgiving Meal at Dunraven

For those with a passion for history and flavor alike, booking a Thanksgiving dinner experience at Dunraven this year is a must! The Thanksgiving meal will have everything from a savory carving station with turkey, ham, and prime rib to mouthwatering seafood and traditional favorites that are sure to delight. Reservations for this event will be required before attending! Located at 1700 Colorado Peaks Drive, Dunraven has everything you could want for a fantastic Thanksgiving dinner. Even if you don’t drop by for Thanksgiving dinner, Dunraven has great food options that are well worth eating at over the holiday weekend or anytime you’re here.

Pick up a Holiday Pie in Style

Estes Park travelers that have a sweet tooth to satisfy this Thanksgiving will find they can always indulge at the Estes Park Pie Shop & Bakery when they’re in town. Located at 509 Big Thompson Avenue in Stanley Village, this bakery has built its reputation around mouthwatering pie selections that are a perfect pairing with Thanksgiving fun. Order one to pick up in advance or drop by and see what inspires you to treat your tastebuds in style.

After Dinner Relaxation

When a delicious Thanksgiving dinner in Estes Park has left you looking to relax and unwind, booking a massage at QI Lounge Wellness Spa could be just the ticket. This locale is located inside our resort and offers up a restorative atmosphere as well as service options ranging from massage therapy and spa packages to body treatments, facials, and acupuncture sessions too. The spa is open Monday-Saturday from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Book Your Getaway to Estes Park Today

No matter when you arrive in Estes Park, making sure you have amazing accommodations to match is made simple when you book through Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Our stunning collection of vacation rentals is sure to inspire and fit customized preferences of all types! Reach out today to learn more about our exciting lineup of options and to start planning your next trip.

Travelers with a passion for vacation destinations brimming over with scenic beauty, in-town charm, and the access to outdoor recreation to match will find everything they’ve been searching for when they head to Estes Park. When mountain scenery dotted with dazzling waterways, hiking trails, forests, and wildlife are just your style, this is most definitely the place to be. Year-round, Estes Park provides visitors and locals with incredible reasons to get out and enjoy their surroundings. A Halloween adventure here is no exception to the rule. When you’re looking forward to Halloween-focused fun in Estes Park, the following are just a few of the many activities you’ll want to be sure you have at the top of your Estes Park Halloween itinerary in 2022.

Check Out the YMCA of the Rockies Halloween Spooktacular

If your Halloween getaway to Estes Park brings you this direction on October 22^nd, you’ll be just in time to check out the annual Halloween Spooktacular hosted by the YMCA of the Rockies. This inviting and family-friendly event is a fun way to spend a Saturday in good company celebrating Halloween in style! Guests are invited to dress in their costumes and enjoy a wide variety of holiday-themed activities, crafts, and even competitions while you’re here. There’s a family-friendly haunted forest on-site as well which is certainly full of surprises. Trick-or-treating is on the lineup of activities and hayrides are often offered for guests too. The YMCA of the Rockies is located at 2515 Tunnel Road in Estes Park.

Enjoy a Fall Master Naturalist Workshop

Travelers heading to Estes Park over Halloween who happen to have a passion for outdoor adventure will find the multi-day workshops available at the YMCA of the Rockies endlessly exciting! These workshops will be offered from October 24^th through October 26^th this year and are led by YMCA Outdoor Education Staff. Sign up for this insightful and educational experience in advance to enjoy two days of field training on how to identify forest and mountain wildlife and plants alike. The course covers a variety of ecosystems as well as mountain history and offers up education on fighting wildfires in the area too. At the end of this course, participants receive a Master Naturalist certification as well as the option to participate in a celebratory campfire! As a bonus, those who sign up in October can enjoy participating in a bonus elk ecology class as well. It’s a Halloween time treat you won’t want to miss.

See DeVotchKa Perform at the Stanley Hotel

The iconic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park hosts amazing musical performances year-round. Halloween travelers can enjoy seeing DeVotchKa take to the stage on October 27, 28, and 29^th this year. DeVotchKa is a renowned four-piece vocal and multi-instrument ensemble that’s based out of Denver. They’ll be performing as part of the Halloween Black Tie Ball at the hotel and concerts kick off at 7:00 pm on the 27^th and then at 6:00 pm on the 28^th and 29^th. Tickets can be purchased in advance online and when the show is over, be sure to inquire about a haunted hotel tour here!

Swing by The Old Fashioned Candy Store

Add even more sugary fun to your Halloween getaway in Estes Park by making time on your itinerary to enjoy a stop at The Old Fashioned Candy Store. Located at 102 W Elkhorn Avenue, this locale is loved for its full lineup of modern and retro candy selections alike! It’s fun on its own but also a worthwhile follow-up if you need to top off those trick-or-treat bags after your time out and about. Now owned and operated by Red Elk, The Old Fashioned Candy Store is a delicious stop where every visit contributes to the store’s legacy of mouthwatering excellence since it first opened its doors in 1958. When you’ve filled up your goodie bag here, head over to Red Elk apparel at 184 E. Elkhorn Avenue and take time to browse the incredible collection of custom flannels and handmade jewelry that is just right for the fall season!

Book Your Holiday Vacation to Estes Park Today

There’s never been a better time to enjoy a great getaway to Estes Park and when you’re looking to elevate your Halloween fun, booking luxurious accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes is a must! Our property options available keep guests close to the places they can’t wait to explore this holiday while incorporating luxury, comfort, and style too. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about our many exciting rental options available and how we can help you turn those Halloween travel plans into a reality. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on the fun ahead! Our team looks forward to welcoming you to beautiful Estes Park soon.

Estes Park in Colorado is one of the biggest tourist destinations during the summer and winter for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, white water rafting, exploring with your kids, and much more! Whether you enjoy the slower side of life and simply want to sit outside and enjoy the stunning vistas, or you are an adrenaline junkie who enjoys climbing to the top of the nearby peaks, there is something for everyone here in Colorado.

We recommend checking out some of the top things to do in Estes Park in summer so you can plan your trip ahead of time. After all, once you see pictures of the stunning landscapes and countryside, you won’t be able to help yourself!

Things to do in Estes Park, Colorado

For families, friends, couples, and solo travelers, there are numerous activities to do, both indoor and outdoor, during your time in Colorado. Check out some of the most popular things to do, which will make the vacation one that you will never forget.

• WildSide 4×4 Tours — Explore the surrounding countryside and mountain trails in a 4×4 jeep and knowledgeable tour guides.
• Estes Park Guided Tours — Want to learn more about the surrounding area and the national parks nearby? Join one of the guided tours to walk along hiking trails, and learn more about the cultural history of the area, and the nature in the town.
• Yellow Wood Guiding — if you would rather have a private tour to go at your own pace, you can sign up for one of Yellow Wood’s guided private tours in Estes Park.
• Backbone Adventure — Not for the faint of heart, Backbone Adventure Rentals offers ATVs, kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and other items to rent during your outdoor excursions!
• Reverie Beauty and Bodywork — After a long day of exploring the nearby area, it can be time to unwind and relax. Whether you are getting a couple’s massage with you and your partner, or you would just like to have your feet rubbed after being in hiking shoes all day, Reverie Beauty and Bodywork offers massages, facials, and much more.
• The Barrel — Maybe you have worked up an appetite and thirst after a full-day hike. If so, head to The Barrel! This craft beer location on Moraine Avenue in Estes Park is the perfect space to people-watch, sit outside and catch a cool breeze, and try one of the many craft beers from local breweries in the area.
• Wildwater Rafting — Sometimes in Estes Park, it can get very hot. In this case, cool off by heading to A1 Wildwater Rafting with you and your closest friends in nearby Fort Collins to enjoy the adrenaline-packed day of coasting down white-water rapids.

Accommodation in Estes Park, Colorado

If you have already booked all of your excursions for Estes Park, it is now time to find out where you are going to stay. Luckily for you, there are tons of options for you and your pals to stay in during your upcoming holiday. Whether you would rather stay in a low-key place that is cheap, or you want a luxury villa or cabin with extensive views, we have whatever you need.

You can browse between luxurious accommodation options, Estes Park cabins for sale (if you really like it here!), Estes Park Resort stays, and Estes Park cabins in the local area for rent. Not sure if this is what you are looking for? Some of the best features of the Estates Park cabins include upper-level lofts, air heating and cooling, large coerced exterior patios areas for grilling and dining at night, master bedroom suites, natural wood floors, custom countertops, modern bathrooms, and custom kitchen cabinets and vanities.

Just because you are going to be staying in the mountains, it doesn’t mean you have to be camping. Although it can be fun to sleep under the stars, you get the same feeling with this luxury living experience in the Rocky Mountains. You can rent a single-family home in Estes Park at Mountain Village at Lakes Estes or one of the luxury cabins to enjoy a getaway that is close to the town center. You will have the best of both worlds — you can feel like you are in the Rocky Mountains National Park and still be close to all of the local amenities!

If you are having trouble finding where to book during your impending holiday, why not try Mountain Village at Lake Estes? This luxury accommodation company offers long-term rental contracts and one-of-a-kind properties that are ideal for short-term, weekend stays, summer rentals, or multi-month stays. If you really like it here — which we know you will in Estes Park — you can even contact us to purchase one of the luxury cabins for you to stay in every single winter and summer!

When you come to Estes Park, you are almost assured to be amazed by the views you will be given the privilege of having every day of your visit, from the beautiful mountains standing tall above you like some sort of giant protector from lore to the twinkling lights of the buildings as the sun rests and the moon comes out to play. However, while this is all beautiful, there is truly no better way to experience the beauty of the Colorado mountains than at the locally owned and operated Dunraven.

The Building

Dunraven isn’t just a place to have picturesque views and delectable cuisine; the building itself is designed to truly make you truly feel at peace and more like you are resting at a friend’s home rather than a busy restaurant. With wooden interior, tall ceiling, and warm yet soft lighting, Dunraven truly matches the warm, cozy feelings that the town emanates and which draws crowds to the area. Further, you truly just might forget about your hunger when you sit down and gaze out across Lake Estes, with the mountains as her guardian. As well, should you find yourself coming for a celebration, whether it be a family reunion, a wedding, or just a rather large party, make sure you keep them in mind. Not only does the building comfort you with its wooden arms but it is also much larger than one might expect. Your large group will feel perfectly at home in the Tuscan Room, which is just as homey and comforting as the main dining area. This beautiful room can fit a total of 40 guests and is complete with large wooden dining tables, warm and inviting autumn colors, and is sure to add that special touch and atmosphere for which you had been searching. It truly is no wonder it has been featured in a variety of travel magazines including Trail Gazette, Thrillist, 5280 and more!

You might find yourself staring in wonder at the walls, decorated with literally thousands of dollar bills. This is an old tradition from the days when its doors were fresh and newly open. Since the first dollar was signed and placed on the wall, many others have followed suit; you too can add your own name and note upon the wall, ensuring your stay here is forever marked. If your curious what happens to the old, worn-out bills, you will be pleasantly surprised to discover that they donate old bills to various charities. It is nice to know that not only does Dunraven put true care and thought into every meal and piece of decoration, but that their thought and pride stretches beyond the plate and walls and to the community who has made it what it is.

The Food…

Nobody can argue that the building is beautiful, the views exquisite, and the interior welcoming. However, all that pales once one lays their eyes upon their dish, which is as expertly presented as an artist displaying their statue. You’ll find here a wide range of classic dishes served at all times of the day, whether it be an early breakfast, a quick lunch, or an intimate dinner. However, no matter what, or when, you choose to visit, rest easily knowing that all their fish and seafood is fresh, and their steaks certified angus beef. As well, they understand that there are those who must be careful with that which they consume, thus they have a rather wide selection of gluten free options, ensuring that truly everyone can taste that which is Dunraven.

During the day you will find a range of scrumptious meals that range from those to start it all off such as a mouth-watering artichoke dip or a small plate of shrimp scampi. They even have local favorite such as fried pickles, but also those old and long loved ones such as buffalo wings. If you are craving the rich flavors of Italy, fear not, for they also offer everything from lasagna to spaghetti. If you find yourself eating earlier in the day, you will have a wide selection of tried-and-true breakfasts such as breakfast burritos—which you just may need to share considering the size of these monsters—chicken fried steak, or the classic favorite biscuits and gravy.

If you find yourself here for dinner, you will find an equally expansive menu featuring many of the favorites from lunch, but with added ones such as fresh sea scallops—which comes in both appetizer size and entrée—and crab cakes. You can also try some of their fish which have never known the inside of a freezer, or you can taste the buttery richness of lobster tail. You can of course try the classics from over the seas with baked ratatouille or enjoy their mushroom grand tortellini. Of course, they truly wouldn’t be a restaurant if they didn’t also offer a selection of drinks ranging from beer to full bodied wines to specialty cocktails. You’ll even find items that walk within the mysterious twilight zone of desert and beverage with their frozen cocktails. Make sure to taste the wonder flavors of Italian liqueur with a glass of their limoncello as well!

Experience the Best of Estes Park

As you can see, Dunraven offers more then just a place to rest your weary legs for a spell and is more than just somewhere to quickly silence one’s hunger. It has everything from food which will have you reading the menu with as much intensity as a good book to views which will have you sipping your drink, staring in wonder at the beauty that is nature. It’s no wonder the restaurant has created such a name in the town and even outside it. So, make sure you try Dunraven, and other equally enchanting places, by inquiring further with Mountain Village at Lake Estes at (970) 473-5735 or by booking your stay in Estes Park with us today!

As you start planning your Estes Park vacation, your list of activities you want to try, places you want to see, and events you are curious about seems to be growing by the minute. There is a lot to do in this beautiful part of Colorado, no matter what the season, and we can promise that every minute of every day will be filled with fun adventures you will never forget. Although we don’t want to overwhelm you, there is one activity we think you will be thrilled to add to your list: a visit to the Mustang Mountain Coaster, where you will experience the ride of your life! This guide to the most unique coaster you have ever ridden may not change your life, but it will definitely enhance your Estes Park getaway, especially when you pair it with a stay in one of our Mountain Village at Lake Estes vacation escapes!

Located at 1180 Dry Gulch Road in Estes Park

Open Monday through Sunday from 9 AM until 5 PM during the summer and fall season (hours will change in the winter, but they haven’t announced what the changes will be as of this writing), the Mustang Mountain Coaster is Estes Park’s newest and already most loved attraction, and even though the Grand Opening was held just months ago, we anticipate that this cool coaster is guaranteed to be your new favorite thing to do! Also known as an alpine coaster, there are only 37 of these unique attractions in all of the United States, and the Mustang Mountain Coaster is the only one close enough to your comfortable Estes Park vacation escape! Get up early on a quiet Tuesday morning, grab a hearty breakfast from the Egg of Estes, located at 393 E Elkhorn Avenue, and prepare for a morning filled with fun. On second thought, you might want to eat light in preparation for the dips, drops, twists, and turns that are the signature of this 2000-foot-long mountain thriller. Fortunately, the Egg of Estes is open for lunch too, so you will just be delaying your breakfast craving a little bit longer, as it is served all day!

The Ride of Your Life

Now we have discussed the length of this thrilling structure, we have mentioned the dips and the drops, the twists and the turns, but you may be wondering, what IS a mountain coaster? Well, unlike its counterpart, the roller coaster, the only mechanics involved (beyond engineering concepts) are the initial stages when the conveyor chugs along, bringing you up the slope that will take you to the first drop. Just as in roller coasters, however, you have that moment at the top of that first hill where you feel as if you are on top of the world, and in Colorado, what a world it is! The sun shining brightly down on you, the clear blue skies, and as far as the eye can see a landscape of trees, mountains, and off in the distance, small communities of cozy homes, await you on this one-of-a-kind ride.

Another difference between a mountain coaster and the roller coaster is the cart in which you will be seated. Perched almost directly on the track, you sit with your legs in front of you, alone or with just one other person who will sit crouched between your legs in front of you (a combined weight of 350 pounds is the maximum allowed). Gravity is what takes over now, and you are in control of the speeds that can get up to 30 miles per hour; ride wild and feel the wind in your face and the exhilaration of the ride, keep tight hold of the hand brakes and enjoy a leisurely trip through the wilderness, or partake in a combination of the two. You are the captain of this voyage and as long as you follow the Mustang Mountain Coaster rules, this adventure will change the way you look at coasters forevermore!

The end of the ride may come too soon, but because you purchased one of their three ride passes, you still have two more adventures in front of you; passes can be purchased for single, double, or triple rides (or a kids’ all-day pass for 3- to 7-year-olds who will be riding with the adults) with each pass being meant for a single person! Riders must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches to ride with an adult or at least 56 inches tall to ride alone.

Adventures at Home

The Mustang Mountain Coaster is destined to be the adventure you will love the most during your Estes Lakes getaway, only topped by the quieter, softer adventures you will experience in our Mountain Village at Lake Estes seasonal sanctuaries. Reserve yours today!

Making the most of a mountain getaway has long brought travelers from near and far to Estes Park, Colorado. Whether they come in the name of downhill adventures, outdoor fun or are simply looking for a scenic escape, Estes Park has a little something for everyone. With the current global outbreak of COVID-19 in Estes Park, as well as in the entire state of Colorado, we are currently enforcing a number of mandates and guidelines to keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible.

Colorado-Focused Guidelines

Many assume that getting away from the outbreak and heading to the mountains is key, but at this time, traveling to Estes Park is not advisable. As of March 26, 2020, Governor Jared Polis passed a state-wide stay-at-home order which will remain in effect until April 11, 2020, at which time it will come under review for an extension. Estes Park is undoubtedly included within this mandate and at this time, all non-essential businesses and tourist attractions are effectively closed. These include restaurants, bars, cultural centers as well as access to Rocky Mountain National Park. Recreational sites and campgrounds at national forests are also closed to the public. It is advised that out of state travelers postpone travel plans and residents of the state of Colorado remain home as much as possible beyond essential travel for food, medications or doctor visits.

Recommendations to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19

As a respiratory illness without a known vaccine or cure, COVID-19 seems to spread rapidly between person to person contact. To this end, it’s important that social distancing is adhered to during these unprecedented times and contact in public remains at an absolute minimum. Gathering of groups of more than 10 individuals is not recommended and if traveling out in public is required, it’s advisable that face masks be worn to prevent the spread of COVID-19 through the air. Regular handwashing is recommended for at least 20 seconds at a time with warm water and soap. When soap is not readily available hand sanitizer is an acceptable alternative. When the option to have groceries and other essential items delivered is available, this is preferable to venturing out into public. Consider wiping down delivered goods with basic cleaning products to prevent the transmission of the disease.

Looking Ahead to a Brighter Future

At Mountain Village at Lake Estes, our passion lies with our guests and this amazing mountain escape we call our own. While now is not the time to travel to Estes Park, we have no doubt that in the future, travel and adventure will once again be top of mind. When that happens, we’ll be here to welcome you back! Stay safe and healthy in the meantime! Contact us now.