Colorado is known for its outdoor lifestyle, and Estes Park is no exception. From overlooking jaw-dropping scenery from a soaring peak to spotting Estes Park wildlife along the trail, there is so much to see in Estes Park and the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Get started on planning on your journey to Estes Park with some of these Estes Park sightseeing ideas!
Estes Park Wildlife Viewing
Estes Park is one with nature in that you just may spot elk wandering on the golf course or making their way through town. To get out on an intentional excursion to see these magnificent creatures, Horseshoe Park, Moraine Park, and Upper Beaver Meadows are all popular viewing spots. They are most active during their rutting season, which is during fall months. Wild turkeys, marmots, big horn sheep, moose, and black bears are some of the other mammals you may come across during your time in Estes Park.
Sightseeing from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
To get the lay of the land and soak in some breathtaking views, take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway above the treetops to the summit of Prospect Mountain. From this European-style cable car, you’ll enjoy aerial views of Estes Park and the surrounding mountain ranges. This is a great option for enjoying scenic views without having to exert the effort required in hiking!
Hiking in Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s no wonder that Estes Park and the surrounding areas are teeming with hiking trails just waiting to be explored, and wildlife in Estes Park to see. Hitting the trail is a great way to not only get in some exercise, but also enjoy breathtaking views of the forests, lakes, and mountains that characterize the terrain in and around Estes Park. Hiking options range from casual strolls perfect for families to difficult summits that will challenge even experienced climbers. The Bierstadt Lake Loop is a good place to start, offering 3 miles of breathtaking mountain scenery along the Continental Divide. The scenic multiuse path that encircles Lake Estes is also great for walking, jogging, cycling, and cross-country skiing (during winter months).
Adventuring with Wildside 4×4 Tours
Wildside 4×4 tours offers off-road tours from May 15-December1 and National Park tours year-round, many of which offer wildlife viewing opportunities. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable adventure vehicles, you’ll catch sight of stunning waterfalls, as well as wildlife such as moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and deer, among others. With stunning views all along the way, this is a great opportunity to bring along the camera and capture photos of some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery, as well as capturing shots of majestic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Photography Tour with Yellow Wood Guiding
For an even more customized wildlife viewing experience, considering booking an outing with Yellow Wood Guiding. This outfitter offers customized tours in Rocky Mountain National Park tailored to what interests you most. Capture amazing photos on the photography tour, where your knowledgeable guide will not only take you to the best wildlife viewing locations, but also provide tips on composition and camera settings to help you get the best shots. Other tours delve deeper into the park and offer high quality binoculars for sighting even the animals that seem to be hidden away. With the Yellow Wood naturalists, you’ll not only enjoy the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park’s abundant wildlife, but also gain a greater appreciation for these creatures as you learn more about them. Depending on interests, tours also offer greater depth of information on topics such as flowers, birds, ecology, and local history, as well as views of alpine lakes, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes. With the many stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities, Estes Park truly is a paradise for nature lovers!
Estes Park Sightseeing
There is so much to see and do in Estes Park! After soaking in the Estes Park sightseeing opportunities, relax at the end of the day in a luxurious Estes Park vacation rental situated along the shores of Lake Estes. These cabins offer even more opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty that Estes Park is so well known for. Lake Estes and the surrounding mountains offer a serene landscape to which to retreat at the end of the day. Our Estes Park vacation cabins take full advantage of the surroundings, boasting dramatic two-story windows that bring the outside in. Spend more time outdoors on the covered deck, many of which boast a private hot tub and outdoor fireplace, perfect for a cozy evening no matter the season. With a full kitchen, comfortable living room, and two master bedrooms, these cabins are ideal for couples, families, and groups. Enjoy the great outdoors from these Estes Park luxury cabins, where the activities and wildlife of Lake Estes are just steps away! This is Colorado living at its finest!