There are times when a refreshing and revitalizing vacation in the mountains is exactly what you need. When this is the case, there’s no better place to enjoy time away than Lake Estes in Estes Park. This Colorado gem of a getaway destination is a treat for travelers who are looking for easy access to the great outdoors and stunning views to top their stay off in scenic style. While you could certainly enjoy a luxurious retreat in this direction any time of year, the option to make the most of a budget-friendly stay is also available. When you’re hoping to save money, but you don’t want to sacrifice the fun, the following are some great ways to enjoy a vacation in Colorado without breaking the bank.
Enjoy a Beautiful Walk Around the Water
There’s absolutely no cost to enjoy great views when you decide to spend time at Lake Estes in good company. Once you arrive, gather your family and friends and spend time strolling around Lake Estes following the Lake Estes Trail. This 3.75-mile loop offers up spectacular vistas over the waves as well as views over the Continental Divide. You can choose to stroll the path on foot or if you’ve brought your bike along for the journey, the trail is cyclist-friendly too. Be sure to add a pair of binoculars to your pack for your time on the Lake Estes Trail because wildlife watching is a fascinating way to spend the day that also doesn’t require you to pay any type of fee to enjoy.
Get Out on the Water in Budget-Friendly Style
When temperatures rise in Estes Park, getting out on the water is a wonderful way to relax, cool off, and enjoy time under the Colorado sun. Lake Estes is a calm and tranquil body of water to explore at your own preferred pace while you’re here. Head over to the Lake Estes Marina at 1770 Big Thompson Avenue and you’ll find it’s simple to rent a kayak for the day at just $25 an hour. You can bring your own on-the-water-on-the-water gear like a paddleboard if you don’t want to spend money on renting equipment as well. Afterward, make time to stroll the banks along the marina and savor great views of passing boats, wildlife, and more.
Take Time to Enjoy Fly Fishing
If it’s tranquility you’re after and you don’t want to spend a dime, a little fly fishing at Lake Estes can go a long way towards the fun. Bring your fishing gear along for the journey and connect with nature while casting a line at the lake from the pier near the Fisherman’s Nook parking lot. Head out early in the day to avoid the crowds and get something exciting to bite too!
Spend Quality Time and Picnic with Family and Friends at Bond Park
While Estes Park is packed with amazing restaurants to check out, there are always options to save on dining and make the most of a picnic with family and friends at scenic Bond Park too. Located at 170 MacGregor Avenue, this park has plenty of green space, offers up great mountain views, and is a top destination for a picnic when you’re looking to enjoy an affordable and family-friendly fresh-air meal. It’s also the site of many community events annually including Elk Fest, concerts, art festivals, and farmers market so you might be fortunate enough to be dropping by when there are on-site activities to participate in too. Bond Park is located close to the center of town, so after a picnic and time playing with the kids, you can spend some time strolling through Estes Park people-watching, or window shopping.
Dig Into the Area’s Past
For history buffs, there’s no better opportunity than digging into an area’s past when you’re there to enjoy a well-deserved vacation. Estes Park is no exception to the rule and when you happen to be here, you can enjoy time at the Estes Park Museum for free. This is a wonderful locale found at 200 4th Street that’s family-friendly and filled with fascinating exhibits and displays. You’ll learn about the tribes, stories, people, and events that have long defined Estes Park as you peruse more than 25,000 historic objects on-site.
Try Local Transportation
If you have plans to stay near the center of town when you make your way toward Lake Estes, there’s a good chance you can leave your vehicle parked and save on needing to fill up on gas during your visit. If you want to get out and explore further but prefer to leave your vehicle behind, Estes Park has a free shuttle during the summer months to consider taking. The shuttle has a variety of local pick-up points to choose from and serves Rocky Mountain National Park’s Beaver Meadows as well between 10:00 am and 10:00 pm daily. If you do head over to Rocky Mountain National Park, be sure to check the National Park Service website ahead of time and plan your trip for one of the annual fee-free days on the calendar to enjoy even more savings.
Book Your Adventure Today
Make sure your Estes Park getaway includes the luxury, comfort, and convenience you deserve by booking your accommodations through the Mountain Village at Lake Estes this year. Reach out today to learn more about our many property options including seasonal rentals that are fit to your particular budget. We look forward to seeing you soon!
