As summer begins to wind down, August is a great time to enjoy time away in scenic Estes Park, Colorado. In 2025, the local event calendar here is packed with options for fun, no matter what your travel interests might entail! The following are a few to consider adding to your itinerary the next time you’re here. Check out the best events in Estes Park in August!
Run the Rocky Mountain Half Marathon or 5K
On August 1 and 2, 2025, local and visiting athletes alike are invited to participate in the annual Rocky Mountain Half Marathon and 5K, which is always a fun and highly anticipated event in the community. It’s no secret this run is a challenge, but with the Rocky Mountains as your stunning route backdrop, there’s already a lot of motivation in place to cross the finish line successfully. Both the half marathon and 5K races start near the lake at the local fairgrounds and there’s a fun gathering afterward to celebrate your determination!
Get Creative in Estes Park This August
If you find yourself looking to lean into some creative inspiration during your getaway to Estes Park, August 1, 2025, will mark the very last day to attend a special introduction to stained glass workshop hosted over at the Creativity Cabin Estes Park. Make your way to 342 W. Riverside Drive on Friday to attend a session that runs from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. The class is designed for those 18 and up and you don’t need any prior experience to make the most of the learning opportunity. All the tools and materials you’ll need are provided so you can discover the art of stained glass at your own preferred pace and in a welcoming environment. During this class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of stained glass creation with a focus on the copper foil method. As you try your hand at glass cutting, foiling, soldering and finishing, you’ll find that you have a brand new skill in place, and a wonderful souvenir to take home after the class is complete too. Just be sure to sign up in advance because class size is limited.
Enjoy the Estes Park Jazz Fest
Those who find themselves in Estes Park early in August will love that their trip aligns with the arrival of the annual Estes Park Jazz Fest. This year, the Estes Park Jazz Fest is slated to be held on August 2 and 3, running from 2:30 pm until 7:00 pm each day. Head over to the Performance Park Amphitheater at 435 West Elkhorn Avenue to enjoy stylings by the Estes Park Jazz Big Band, Kream of the Krop, and Groove n’ Motion Rocky Mountain Horns on Saturday, and the John Mills Orchestra, Colorado Swing Big Band, and Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra on Sunday. Whether you drop by for a single performance or stay for them all, it’s bound to be a festival you won’t soon forget. The Estes Park Jazz Fest is sponsored by the Estes Park Village Band and Jazz Big Band and there’s no cost for visitors to attend and enjoy the shows. Any donation goes towards supporting scholarships for local music students, making this an event you can feel great about being a part of as well.
Savor the Flavor in Estes Park
Wine aficionados and those simply looking for a delicious moment alike will want to make sure to attend the Estes Park Wine Festival this summer which is scheduled to run from August 9 through August 10. This flavorful event is hosted downtown in Bond Park and is specially designed to welcome attendees who are 21 and up. With the purchase of a ticket, you’ll enjoy unlimited tastings, live music, a wine tote, access to delicious food vendors, and time to browse works by local artisans too. Designated drivers can be a part of the fun without the wine included for just $10 at the gate. The Estes Park Wine Festival runs from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm on the 9th and from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm on the 10th.
Book Your Estes Park Adventure Today
Whether your travel plans have you enjoying Estes Park this August, or you’re heading this way another time of year, you can make sure style, comfort, and luxury are part of the experience by booking your accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Here, we have property options suitable for groups of all types, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple on a romantic retreat, with friends, or alongside the entire family. From cozy retreats to spacious layouts, our rentals are designed to inspire from the moment you step foot through the door. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting options available and how we can help you tailor the details of your stay in Estes Park that matter most. We look forward to seeing you in Colorado soon!
Every season in Estes Park inevitably offers up something exciting and inviting for guests, but if you’re making your way in this direction in June, you’ll find the local event calendar is particularly fun! This year, visitors to Estes Park in June will have opportunities to enjoy everything from friendly competitions and art-inspired experiences to musical marvels that are sure to thrill. No matter what your travel interests might be, June in Estes Park has something worth enjoying for yourself, and the following are just a few of the top events you’ll want to be sure to add to your list this year.
Don’t Miss Out on Time at the Wool Market
A wonderful way to spend time in Estes Park in June is to make time on your itinerary to attend the annual Wool Market. This year, the Wool Market will be held on June 5 and 6 over at the Estes Park Events Complex, located at 1125 Rooftop Way. The event is slated to run from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm on Saturday and from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm on Sunday. There’s absolutely no cost to attend this community-focused event which is open to the public and revolves around a mission of bringing together natural animal fiber producers, retailers, educators, and consumers in one inviting space. The Wool Market is a great place to enjoy a variety of hands-on activities, attend unique workshops, get up close to some incredible creatures, and of course, shop for wool and fiber-based products too. If you decide to attend one of the insightful workshops built into the Wood Market experience this June, those are held at the Estes Park High School located at 1600 Manford Avenue, and lunch is included in the workshop lineup.
Infuse Artistic Inspiration into Your Getaway
Estes Park is a vacation destination packed with incredible art galleries for guests to explore year-round, but in June, you can make the most of extended opening hours when you add a First Friday Art Groove to your lineup. On the first Friday of the month, visitors and locals alike gather to enjoy a self-guided tour of the local galleries complete with artist meet-and-greets, delicious refreshments, and live music to add to the entertainment factor of the outing. It’s a great time to celebrate new show openings at galleries across Estes Park and a fun summer activity to enjoy when you prefer taking your sightseeing and gallery hopping at your own preferred pace.
Run Your Way to June Fun
A highlight event in June in Estes Park for those who enjoying running their way to competitive fun no matter where they roam is the Estes Park Marathon and Half Marathon in town. This year, the race is scheduled to be held on June 15, 2025, and once again, there are options to include the Longs Peak 5 Miler race into the lineup as well. The Estes Park Marathon and Half Marathon event is a family-friendly experience that’s just as much worth your while to attend whether you’re competing or you plan on being a supportive spectator. There’s a kid’s fun run to sign up for when you’re traveling this way with little ones, but if you’re registered for the main event, count on a challenging course filled with fantastic mountain scenery to enjoy as you push your athletic limits within the Estes Valley.
Attend the Friends of Folk Festival
On June 24, 2025, visitors to Estes Park with a passion for folk music in place will be right on time to attend the Friends of Folk Festival! This is a free event that’s open to the public and scheduled to run from 3:30 pm until 10:00 pm over at Performance Park. Make your way to 435 W. Elkhorn Avenue with a blanket or chair in hand so you can settle in and enjoy incredible performances by local and visiting artists in good company. Goodwill donations are accepted at the festival and any and all proceeds go toward funding scholarships for local creatives and supporting Friends of Folk festivals in years to come.
Run the Estes Park Backyard Ultra
June 2025 in Estes Park will close out with one last competitive adventure in the form of the annual Estes Park Backyard Ultra. This race is set up along a route that highlights the beauty of Lake Estes and asks athletes to complete 4.252 miles in less than an hour until only one runner remains. The course comes with challenging elevation gains, but the effort is worth your while, thanks to all proceeds from this race going to support childcare and family services in the greater Estes Park community.
Book Your Stay in Estes Park Today
Whether you’re planning a June journey to Estes Park, or traveling this way another time of year, the team at Mountain Village at Lake Estes is here to make sure you have stylish and conveniently located accommodations in place upon arrival. Reach out to learn more about our inviting collection of homes and how we can help you tailor the details of your stay to perfectly fit your travel style.
Estes Park, Colorado has a way with gorgeous mountain views, access to outdoor recreation, and customized options for in-town entertainment that’s hard to top. With summer just around the corner, now is the time to begin turning your Estes Park warm weather travel plans into a reality! Whether you’re someone who loves to get out on the water, hit the hiking trails, or sip your way through a vacation day, you’ll find tailoring your Estes Park summer itinerary is a breeze when this destination is your getaway of choice.
Summer Weather to Look Forward to Enjoying
When you make plans to enjoy a summer vacation in Estes Park, you can count on warm and welcoming weather to greet you this time of year. Daily highs typically linger in the upper 70s with evening lows dropping into the 50s. That means visitors have every reason to spend as much time as possible in the great outdoors, and when an evening dinner on a restaurant patio is what you want to include too, the temperatures will be idyllic for such an occasion. Be sure to pack layers so you can move easily between indoor and outdoor activities in Estes Park and don’t forget your sunscreen for time on the trails.
Seasonal Events to Add to the List
Summer is a season of celebration in Estes Park and no matter when you arrive, you’ll find the event calendar this time of year is packed with options for fun! In June, the family-friendly Wool Market kicks off for two days of fun and education. This annual summer event brings together natural animal fiber retailers, consumers, educators, and producers to benefit the industry and connect attendees with some incredible animals along the way! There are workshops to attend, entertaining performances to enjoy, and of course, plenty of petting zoo experiences built into the lineup. The middle of June marks the arrival of the annual Estes Park Marathon and half-marathon event in town which the team over at Forbes Magazine regularly rates as one of the top seven scenic courses in the nation. The end of June sees the Friends of Folk Festival come to town which is a free music festival organized by the local Estes Arts District. In early July, Estes Park Visitors can be a part of the Rooftop Rodeo while August marks the beloved Estes Park Wine Festival spanning two days of flavorful fun, live music, tastings, artisans, food vendors, and so much more. If you find yourself in Estes Park in August, be sure to add the SnowyGrass Music Festival to your list which is presented each year by Upstream Concerts.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
For those who are heading to Estes Park in the summertime and are looking to spend as much time in the great outdoors as possible, this is the ideal season to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. Home to stunning trails, scenic drives, and wildlife to spot along the way, you can spend much more than a day exploring this beautiful and unforgettable destination for yourself.
Explore the Historic Stanley Hotel
History buffs who find themselves in Estes Park this summer won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to take a tour of the iconic Stanley Hotel. Whether have a drink at the bar, explore the grounds, head out on a history tour alongside a local guide, or opt for a ghost tour instead, it’s a place that has a way of sticking with you long after you’ve left it behind.
Infuse Flavor into Your Summer Stay
Make sure to pair your outdoor adventures in Estes Park this summer with a flavorful stop at Snowy Peaks Winery. This inviting destination is a great place to enjoy a tasting session with friends and pair the local sips with cheese and meat plates too. They’re open from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm daily and in the summertime, you’ll likely find live music to enjoy on the patio if you drop by on a Friday.
Enjoy Time on the Water
Cooling off in style is a breeze in Estes Park in the summer thanks to the seamless options for on-the-water fun. Just make your way to the Lake Estes Marina while you’re in town and you’ll find it’s simple to rent a canoe, kayak, or boat for the day when nothing sounds more refreshing than time on the waves. If you obtain a fishing license ahead of time, you can spend an afternoon casting a line from your vessel as well.
Book Your Estes Park Getaway in Style Today
Enjoy time away in Estes Park this summer and when you do, make sure to book your accommodations through the property professionals at Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Our property options are inviting, vast and varied, giving travelers options to pick a property that truly makes them feel right at home upon arrival. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your summer trip soon!
While many travelers enjoy time away in Estes Park, Colorado specifically to find time in nature, this vacation destination is packed with options for creative inspiration as well. If you happen to be someone who loves to embrace the best of the artistic scene wherever you roam, adding this Estes Park art show to your list the next time you’re in town is a must. The following is some of what you’ll need to make the most of the experience, whether you drop by on your own, as a couple, or in the company of family and friends.
What Is the First Friday Art Groove?
The First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park is a highly anticipated event each month among locals and visitors alike. Much as the name indicates, it’s a gathering that’s hosted on the first Friday of the month at various locations across Estes Park. The event is designed to be a self-guided walking tour of art studios and galleries in the area giving those who participate a chance to enjoy learning more about the local art scene at their own preferred pace. First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park is organized by the Estes Arts District and is a family-friendly experience with something for everyone to love.
Plan Your Visit
When you choose to attend the First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park, you can enjoy popping in and out of local art galleries and studios between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm. There’s no cost to attend this popular event which makes it a great budget-friendly addition to any vacation itinerary when you’re looking to enjoy your surroundings and keep more in your wallet for added excursions and adventures. Some of the locations that are frequently highlighted during the experience include the Aspen and Evergreen Gallery, the Driftwood Tattoo Studio, Bear & Bee Maker’s Studio & Boutique, as well as The Studio Fine Art & Framing just to name a few of many. At these locations, there are often interactive activities to enjoy and workshops to attend as a way to further enhance the memorable experience from start to finish for guests.
Extras Beyond Gallery and Studio Exploration
Visitors who enjoy a First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park will likely love the fact that in addition to incredible gallery experiences and tours, this event also typically includes live musical performances. These shows set a great scene as you wander through town and enhance the festive ambiance of it all as well. When your gallery hopping has left you with an appetite to attend to, you’ll quickly discover that each First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park is packed with delicious options on-site. There are snacks and beverages at almost every stop on the map, making it easy to refuel for further artistic fun ahead. Additionally, participants in the First Friday Art Groove experience in Estes Park won’t want to miss out on the artist meet-and-greet options that are built into the experience. It’s a great chance to learn more about the works of art on display from the creative source as well as more about the artistic process that went into production.
An Event That Gives Back
For locals and visitors alike who attend a First Friday Art Groove in Estes Park, the experience is one where attendees have a lot to gain, and also, opportunities to give back. This experience is designed to foster a rich sense of community while also directly supporting local artists in Estes Park. Exploring the galleries and studios opens up options for purchasing pieces of art on display and furthering the growing careers of local creatives. It’s a wonderful way to find yourself inspired while also giving back to the place you’ve come to explore and enjoy.
Book Your Creative Experience in Estes Park in Style Today
Take your trip to Estes Park to the next level of excellence when you choose to book your accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Our property options are packed with amazing amenities and features that give our guests access to the elevated standards of comfort, style, and luxury they deserve. While our team takes care of the details, travelers can simply focus on the fun ahead, exactly as it should be. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting options that are suitable for solo travelers, couples on romantic retreats, groups of friends, and family getaway alike. Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain abode to enjoy during your time in Estes Park, or you can’t wait to settle into a spacious retreat alongside those you love most, we’ll help you find the home-away-from-home that fits your travel style perfectly. We can’t wait to see you in Estes Park soon and look forward to helping you craft a trip to remember.
When a Rocky Mountain getaway is calling your name, there’s no place on the map quite as alluring as Estes Park. This gem of a vacation destination in Colorado is as scenic as it is exciting for those who have a passion for the great outdoors and are looking to unwind in style as well. When travelers are looking to infuse exceptional comfort and convenience into their Estes Park stay, they find it year-round when they book a vacation rental through the Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Our portfolio of rental cabin options showcase home away from home selections that span levels and more than 1,500 square feet of living space each. With in-home heating and cooling systems in place as well as access to fireplaces, private Jacuzzis, spacious patios, full kitchens, high-end technology and more, customizing your stay according to your personal travel style is easier than ever.
You Can Access Exclusive Deals
There are certainly many benefits to booking a vacation rental direct through a property management team like the one at Mountain Village at Lake Estes over a travel agent or a third-party site. However, one of the most exciting perks that some simply aren’t aware of is the exclusive deals you can access when you take this route for booking. When you book direct, there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to take advantage of seasonal discounts and promotions that aren’t available to guests on other platforms. Depending on when you arrive or how you’re looking to spend your time in Estes Park, this could be a great way to keep more money in your wallet, embrace amazing amenities on-site, and enjoy the best Lake Estes has to offer every step of the way.
Forget the Fees and Focus on the Fun Instead
On the surface, it can look simple to book your Estes Park stay through a travel agent or third-party site. However, what many travelers don’t anticipate ahead of time are the exceptionally high fees that can be associated with this method. For some travelers, reserving their place in a vacation rental using this route can lead to spending as much as 20% on booking fees alone! In many cases, that can constitute a large portion of your travel budget which means less available to get out and enjoy when you arrive. When you choose to book your stay direct instead, you’ll find that the team at Mountain Village at Lake Estes never burdens guests with hidden or convoluted charges. We work exclusively on a platform of authenticity and transparency and when it comes to booking transactions, our team is always here to take your call whenever you have questions. We’re also willing to help guests with travel date adjustments and cancellations where third-party sites might make it nearly impossible to adjust timelines once you’ve booked your stay. Booking direct takes you straight to our team from the start and gives you the peace of mind you deserve when it comes to financing your trip.
Count on Customized Service and Professionals Who Know the Area
While it would be nice to think that no matter where you book your stay you’ll find superior levels of customer care, this simply isn’t the case. For many travelers who book their stay in Estes Park through third-party sites, it can be frustrating to get a hold of someone who knows the area and can answer direct questions about your rental once your booking is in place. There’s also no guarantee that anyone associated with your third-party site has authentic experience with the property you’ve selected.
That’s where booking direct can make all the difference. Guests who book their stay direct through the team at Mountain Village at Lake Estes can rest easy knowing we live and work in the place you’re excited to travel. We meticulously manage the properties we market, and we have a boots on the ground team who can give you great insider info into rental selections upon request. If you’re looking for great ideas to add to your itinerary when it comes to local eateries, events, attractions, and more, we’re happy to help with that as well!
Book Your Estes Park Adventure in Comfort and Style Today
Gift yourself the gift of ease the next time you set your travel sights on an Estes Park stay by booking direct through Mountain Village at Lake Estes. Reach out today to learn more about our many exciting rental options available in the area and of course, any special promotions that might be applicable to your travel dates! We look forward to welcoming you to Colorado soon.
With a New Year just about here, now is the perfect time to begin turning those 2025 travel plans to Estes Park, Colorado into a reality. Everyone deserves to start the year off right, and a vacation this way is the perfect route to doing exactly that! A 2025 Colorado vacation to Estes Park can be a great way to revitalize your senses, find a new perspective, spend quality time with loved ones, and maybe even get some of those resolutions underway as well. Fortunately, a trip this way doesn’t have to be an experience in breaking the bank when you know what to add to your itinerary that’s wallet-friendly from start to finish. The following is a great place to start when you’re ready to start budgeting for your 2025 Estes Park vacation.
Add a First Friday Art Groove to Your Itinerary
When you want to get to know Estes Park better during your 2025 vacation, be sure to add a First Friday Art Groove experience to your must-try list. Much as the name indicates, this welcoming event is hosted on the first Friday of every month and is a gathering that’s attended by locals and visitors alike in droves. There’s absolutely no cost to attend a First Friday Art Groove which is hosted at participating art galleries around town—many of which serve up food and drinks to enjoy as you admire the works of art on-site and even have a chance to meet with the arts themselves. There are often live art demonstrations worked into the agenda, and it’s a chance to simply enjoy good company in a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
The event typically runs from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm and some of the participating locations on Thompson Avenue often include Bear & Bee Makers’ Studio & Boutique and the Art Center of Estes Park. On Vrain Avenue, you can stop by The Studio Fine Art & Framing as well as Driftwood Tattoo Studio. Over on E. Elkhorn Avenue, participating venues like Earthwood Artisans, Aspen and Evergreen Gallery, Images of RMNP, and Inspired Artisan Market & Studio are some top destinations to check out as well.
Explore the Beauty and Wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park
In any season, a trip to Estes Park puts the beauty and wonder of places like Rocky Mountain National Park right at your fingertips. When you can’t wait to hike, bike, wildlife-watch, or photograph your way through a visit this year, you’ll have options to plan for a more budget-friendly approach when you organize your trip to align with some of the National Park Service’s free days and weekends. This makes visiting this gorgeous location even more affordable, freeing up funds in your travel budget to expand your Estes Park fun. In 2025, January 20 which is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day will be a free entrance day at the National Parks as well as the first day of National Park Week which falls on Saturday, April 19. June 19, 2025, which is Juneteenth National Independence Day is also slated to be a free entrance day as well as Monday, August 4 which marks the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act. September 27, 2025, is National Public Lands Day and another free entrance day to the National Parks as well as November 11 which marks Veterans Day in 2025.
Bring Your Bike and Hit the Trails
Estes Park is a place well worth exploring on two wheels and while there are plenty of bike rental options in town, you can save time and money by bringing your own gear and hitting the trails at your own preferred pace in 2025. Stanley Park is free to the public and a great place to explore when you’re looking for some thrills. The bike park here has routes that are suitable for cyclists of all skill levels and there is an inviting mix of paved and dirt paths to choose from. Mountain bikers will likely be drawn to the single-track dirt trail that spans 1.25 miles and connects the many different courses. If you’re looking for a more leisurely afternoon of biking and sightseeing, consider exploring the nearly 4-mile loop that runs around Lake Estes. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy gorgeous water and mountain vistas and opportunities to pair your biking with a picnic, kayaking, or even an afternoon on a pontoon boat which can be booked at an affordable rate right from the Lake Estes Marina.
Book a Local Vacation Rental with Amazing On-Site Amenities
Make budgeting for your 2025 Estes Park vacation easier than ever when you partner with Mountain Village at Lake Estes when it’s time to book your accommodations. Our rentals are ideal for travel budgets of all kinds and come with amazing on-site amenities that make your time indoors as thrilling as your time out exploring. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our exciting property options available for your trip this way in 2025. We look forward to seeing you in Colorado soon!
When you’re looking for a vacation destination to enjoy that pairs beautiful scenery with easy access to outdoor adventure and charming in-town entertainment too, you’ll find it all and more waiting for you right in Estes Park. This gem of a getaway locale in Colorado is one that’s loved by travelers from across the map with good reason and has a way of bringing visitors back year after year. It’s a place where you can easily embrace your love for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching on mountain trails in the summertime, or just as easily shop and dine your way through a terrific stay. Home to captivating historic stops and opportunities to relax in style, Estes Park is particularly appealing in the wintertime when cold-weather recreation can be added to the lineup. When you’re heading this way when the fresh powder falls and you can’t wait to get out and adventure, our guide to Estes Park, Colorado snow sports is the perfect place to start.
Enjoy a Snowshoeing Adventure
For many travelers with a passion for outdoor adventure, the beauty of planning a trip to Estes Park often begins with the fact that this destination works as an easy gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. A wintertime journey to Estes Park is no exception and if you’re looking for a fun and thrilling way to enjoy sightseeing, you’ll want to consider making time on the itinerary for a snowshoeing adventure or two. You don’t even have to worry about packing gear because Estes Park is packed with options for snowshoe rentals right on-site. Once you have your snowshoes and poles in hand, you can head over to Rocky Mountain National Park and explore the well-maintained winter trails at your own preferred pace. Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to savor your surroundings, enjoy winter birding, or bring a camera along and spend some time indulging your interests in seasonal landscape photography too. Many winter snowshoers make their way to Sprague Lake to enjoy this activity as it’s not only spectacularly beautiful but offers up a relatively flat route to follow which takes about two hours to complete. If you’re looking to partner up with local professionals and enjoy a guided snowshoeing tour in Rocky Mountain National Park instead, the experts over at Kirks Mountain Adventures, Kent Mountain Adventure Center, and the Colorado Mountain School alike have guided snowshoeing options available to book in advance.
Try Ice Climbing in Estes Park
For a new view of the local mountainous terrain this winter as well as options to infuse thrills into your outdoor recreation, you’ll want to give a winter climbing excursion a try! The team over at Estes Park Rock Climbing, located at 1230 Big Thompson Avenue, offers climbing instruction and outings year-round. Here, you can team up with experienced mountain guides who will customize your seasonal climb according to your skill level, and no matter how experienced you are when you arrive, they can include some new techniques into your trip. Estes Park Rock Climbing also offers guided backcountry skiing and split boarding experiences upon request so if you want to pair your climbing up with even more fun, that’s always an option. They also host an indoor climbing gym if you want to continue climbing but could use a bit of time to thaw out.
Head to Hidden Valley with a Sled in Hand
If you’re making your way to Estes Park this winter and you’re looking for a winter sport everyone in your traveling crew can enjoy together, an afternoon of sledding or tubing at Hidden Valley is a must! Here, the slopes are contoured for safety, and there’s a warming hut open on weekends that proves refreshingly useful when you’re out and about with travelers of all ages. While you’ll need to pay the typical Rocky Mountain National Park entrance fee, there’s no added fee to enjoy time at Hidden Valley. This is also a great part of the park to elevate the thrills further if your family happens to love all terrain and backcountry skiing or you’re already expert split boarders. Keep in mind there aren’t any ski lifts here, so you’ll want to make sure that you plan to put in the work to enjoy the beautiful and challenging terrain.
Take a Snow Cat Tour
When you’re looking to add a one-of-a-kind winter adventure to your lineup during your stay, booking a private high-country snow cat tour is the way to go. The team over at Estes Park Outfitters invites guests to book their place on this unique outing which pairs great views with amazing adventure at every backcountry turn.
Book Your Getaway Today
Now is the time to head to Estes Park in the name of fun and when you do, booking accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes means luxury, comfort, convenience, and style will always be a part of your experience. Reach out today to learn more!
The holidays are a time of year filled with traditions and moments that define the season in memorable style. For many holiday revelers, it’s hard to imagine this meaningful time of year without some quality time set aside with family and friends to get out and explore the best Christmas lights and displays in town. If you’re lucky enough to be heading to Estes Park, Colorado at Christmastime, you’ll be delighted to find that in addition to the incredible scenery waiting to greet you, this destination is one that also has a reputation for being decked out in its holiday best! The following are just a few of the many options to include on your itinerary when you want to be sure you see the best Estes Park Christmas lights and displays this year.
Try the Annual Estes Park Holiday Lights Driving Tour
Each year, Estes Park proudly provides visitors and locals alike with a self-guided driving tour map to follow that hits some of the most glittering holiday stops in town. While the map changes each year depending on the businesses and homes that choose to participate, it’s always well worth exploring in good company at your own preferred pace. The holiday lights driving tour often runs from late November through the beginning of the New Year giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy the experience no matter when they happen to arrive in town over the holidays. In years past, the tour has included a starting point at the YMCA of the Rockies where the administration building and dining hall alike are typically decked out in style. From here, the route often travels along Highway 66 and is dotted with cabins and lodges along Wind River aglow in holiday décor. You won’t want to miss driving past the Wild Horse Gift Shop where the easy-to-spot Bigfoot and many elk statues even get the Christmas light treatment.
Holiday Fun at Bond Park
In 2024, the holiday fun at Bond Park will once again kick off for locals and visitors alike looking to make the most of the Christmas light-focused fun beginning November 23. Located at 170 MacGregor Avenue, Bond Park hosts a Nightly Light Show Spectacular each evening between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm. This dazzling display showcases a state-of-the-art Pixel Pine Tree that illuminates in color and song, much to the delight of guests of all ages! It’s an event you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready for to commemorate the exceptionally exciting moment.
If you find yourself in Estes Park for holiday fun on December 7, you’ll be right on time to make the most of the Snowman Festival hosted at Bond Park as well. This event includes plenty of beautiful Christmas lights and displays to check out as well as a family-friendly scavenger hunt, carriage rides, fantastic food, beverages, and beyond. December 21, 2024, marks the arrival of the Sweet Stroll Festival at Bond Park where little ones can enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa and collect tasty treats while admiring the holiday décor!
Downtown Lights Sure to Inspire
You won’t have to travel far from Bond Park to enjoy the holiday lights and displays adorning downtown Estes Park. Many of the downtown restaurants, shops, and parks are brimming over with holiday lights, making it a great place to enjoy the view and grab some great photos too. The vast majority of the trees along the George Hix Riverside Plaza and Elkhorn Avenue are twinkling in a holiday glow this time of year, so if you have yet to get that perfect Christmas card picture, this could be the ideal backdrop. Even the shop windows host Christmas displays where you can enjoy a whimsical take on marketing for gifts that might be the last you need to check off your list before Christmas Day arrives.
Historic Stops Illuminated in Holiday Style
A must-visit destination when you want to enjoy impressive holiday lights and displays during your Estes Park getaway is the historic Stanley Hotel. Here, the rows of trees that dot the property are strung up in lights each year and the historic location itself is decked out in twinkling décor from top to bottom. It’s a beautiful sight and it might just be the highlight of your holiday light display journey if you’re a history buff too.
Book Your Getaway Today
No matter when your travel plans bring you to Estes Park, booking your accommodations through Mountain Village at Lake Estes is a sure way to infuse luxury, comfort, and elevated standards of style into the experience. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our inviting and exciting lineup of property options available across Estes Park, including our holiday rental selections, and how we can help you create a truly unforgettable stay. We look forward to seeing you in scenic Estes Park soon!
As the seasons change from summer into fall, it’s the ideal time of year for travelers looking for a new adventure to set their sights on Estes Park. This beautiful and inviting vacation destination is a gorgeous place to enjoy time away year-round, but there’s something especially refreshing about heading this way in the fall when the landscapes are vibrant with changing colors, and the temperatures are just right for spending ample time in the great outdoors. Whether you’re heading this way on your own, alongside friends and family, or on a romantic retreat, the following top fall events in Estes Park are a few you simply won’t want to leave off your itinerary.
Enjoy the Fine Arts & Crafts Festival
If you happen to be heading to Estes Park between September 14 and 15 in 2024, you’ll be right on time to take part in the annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival in town. This highly anticipated event will be celebrating its 48th year in 2024 and will once again be hosted at Bond Park in the center of downtown Estes Park. The event runs from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm on Saturday and from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm on Sunday. This juried art show is a celebration of the season, and a juried event where artist creations showcasing impressive work with textiles, sculpture, wood, jewelry, painting and photography compete for top prizes. The Fine Arts & Crafts Festival in Estes Park often hosts upward of 100 tents on-site for attendees to explore within walking distance of Main Street. Whether you drop by to browse or you decide to purchase a piece that speaks to you, it’s an event that’s well worth adding to your lineup this year during your Estes Park fall getaway.
Check Out the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
When you’re looking to infuse some rich cultural experiences into your fall journey to Estes Park, you’ll be delighted to find the annual Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival will once again be held in town in 2024 from September 6 through September 8. This is an event that has been adored by locals and visitors alike for more than four decades and provides a unique opportunity for attendees to participate in an impressive local celebration of Scottish and Irish heritage, tastes, sounds, and arts. The event is made even more inviting thanks to Estes Park’s beautiful natural backdrop as bands from Scotland, Ireland, Canada, and Great Britain gather together to pay homage to their cultural heritage.
The event lineup is truly one-of-a-kind and depending on when you arrive, you might just be fortunate enough to enjoy bagpipes and traditional dances as well as jousting knight demonstrations, drummers, clans decked out in tartan, and more. A highlight of the event is often the hour-long parade hosted on Elkhorn Avenue while the Dogs of the British Isles experience as well as the brass military bands, and precision drill teams elevate the fun of the festival even further. If you’re someone with a passion for flavorful moments, you’ll want to be sure to make time to participate in a whiskey tasting at the Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival while athletes can enjoy time putting their skills to work in the strong man competition that includes putting the stone, hammer throws, caber throwing contests, and more.
Savor the Flavor at Pumpkins & Pilsners
October travelers heading to Estes Park for a fall getaway won’t want to miss out on the Pumpkins & Pilsners event that will be hosted here on October 5, 2024. This is a free-for-all fall festival in town that’s designed to entertain guests of all ages. Pumpkins & Pilsners will be set up at Bond Park located at 170 Macgregor Avenue and will run from 11:00 am until 6:00 pm. Guests are invited to drop by and pick out a pumpkin of their choosing while enjoying live musical entertainment right on-site. There will be bounce houses and craft stations set up for the kids while the adults in your traveling crew can enjoy craft beer samples across the park. While there’s no entry cost to enjoy this family event this fall, donations you might make will go towards the local non-profit organization Estes Park Education Foundation.
Book Your Estes Park Getaway Today
Now is the best time to begin turning your Estes Park travel plans into a reality. When you’re looking to infuse luxury, comfort, and impeccable style standards into your getaway as well, booking your vacation rental through Mountain Village at Lake Estes is the place to start. Be sure to reach out today to learn more about our incredible lineup of property options available including our fall rentals that will take your trip to the next level of excellence with every reservation. We look forward to helping you create an unforgettable stay and can’t wait to see you in scenic Colorado soon.
It’s fair to say that enjoying time away in Estes Park, Colorado is always an exciting adventure. If you’re fortunate enough to be making your way in this direction over the 4th of July in the name of a well-deserved break, you’ll find there’s even more to experience and look forward to! July 4th at Estes Park, Colorado is a treat for locals and travelers alike whether you’re looking to get into nature, have a heart for great music, or you’re excited to make the most of a fantastic fireworks display. When your travel plans have you spending time here over Independence Day, the following activities are a few you simply won’t want to leave off your list.
Enjoy a 4th of July Concert or Two
The 4th of July is certainly a time to celebrate, and when you find yourself in Estes Park this time of year, you’ll find many holiday celebrations incorporate great music into the mix. The annual Big Bang! concert is hosted on July 4 at the Estes Park Events Complex found at 1209 Manford Avenue, and typically kicks off around 6:30 pm with gates opening at 5:00 pm. In years past, the concert has included live music by the Face Vocal Band. Attendees can enjoy covered seating, fantastic food options, and delicious beverages on-site as well to top off their celebrations in delicious style. Vendors will be ready and waiting to serve up everything from BBQ and brats to burgers, salads, fries, and ice cream too. Local beers and wines will be available to purchase when you want to make sure your evening includes local bold flavors. You’ll want to be sure to purchase your tickets for this concert in advance online, with adults enjoying performances for $21 and children able to enter the venue for $10 each.
When you want to expand your musical fun this July 4th even further, you can also add the Estes Park Village Band Patriotic Concert to your itinerary. This is a free annual concert that’s hosted at Performance Park’s outdoor auditorium on Independence Day that’s highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. This concert is a chance for attendees to gather and celebrate the Fourth with a lineup of patriotic and traditional songs performed by local musicians. Music begins at 7:00 pm and in 2024, it’s shaping up to once again be a concert to remember.
Spend Time at the Annual Fourth of July Car Show
If you’re a traveler who has a passion for classic cars, your July 4th in Estes Park, Colorado should most definitely include time at the annual car show in town. Hosted by the American Legion Post 119, this annual event provides car enthusiasts with a place to pair classic vehicles and fireworks. Make your way to 850 N. Vrain Avenue beginning at 11:00 am to enjoy an all-day event packed with incredible cars to admire. Wristbands for unlimited entry are $25 per person and the car show also includes access to the on-site vendors serving up savory bites and beverages.
Count on a Great Fireworks Display
While fireworks displays in Estes Park are always subject to change based on forecasted conditions, when the weather is just right, those who spend time here over the Fourth of July will be treated to a brilliant display of color as soon as the sun goes down on the 4th. The annual fireworks display is often hosted right over Lake Estes and attendees are invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show in good company. This time of year, you can expect fireworks to begin around 9:30 pm.
Savor Time in the Great Outdoors
Independence Day in Estes Park, Colorado often comes marked by plenty of sunshine and warm, inviting temperatures to match. That means outdoor adventurers have every reason to get out and explore.
When you’re not attending a local holiday celebration, you can set aside time to take a scenic hike in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. In the summertime, this destination is a hub of spectacular scenery including wildflowers blooming along the trails. You’ll want to make sure you have your binoculars handy for wildlife watching along the way and whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, you’ll want your camera to capture the stunning landscape as you adventure through.
When temperatures are on the rise in Estes Park over the 4th of July, it’s the perfect time to spend quality time at Lake Estes. At the Estes Park Marina, you can easily rent a kayak, canoe, or boat to enjoy a day on the waves at your own preferred pace alongside family and friends. If you’re more in the mood to cast a line over the 4th of July, make your way to Sprague Lake to see what’s biting mid-summer!
Book Your Adventure to Estes Park Today
Make it easy to elevate your Estes Park getaway in luxury and style when you book your vacation rental through Mountain Village at Lake Estes. We’ll help you get settled into a beautiful home-away-from-home that’s near the fun and keeps top-notch amenities, features, and furnishings at your fingertips. Reach out today to learn more!