How Locals enjoy Estes Park:
If you want to know the best places in Estes Park to take in nature, grab a bite to eat, or fun things to do around town, ask a local for their recomendations! Here’s what some seasoned Estes Park locals had to say:
Enjoy Nature
Gayle Livingston has lived in Estes Park for almost a decade and owns the local lodge, Brynwood on the River. She shares that her favorite spot to enjoy nature near Estes Park is Lily Lake. Gayle says, “It’s close enough to easily get away and take an easy walk around the lake. Just the other day moose were seen in the lake!”
Eat Out
As for her favorite restaurant in Estes Park, Gayle recommends Estes Thai. She says, “the food is authentic and fantastic and the staff is so friendly!”
Around Town
Gayle’s favorite thing to do in town is to walk along the river behind all the shops. There are park-like spots to sit and enjoy fountains and sculptures, quaint foot bridges, and several restaurants with outdoor seating along the way. And the riverwalk always offers good people watching!
Enjoy Nature
Local businessman Chris Wood of Castle Mountain Lodge thinks that if you’re up for a more challenging hike – approximately 8.4 miles there and back with 2,390 ft elevation gain – Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is a favorite place to enjoy nature. Check out his short video from his recent hike to Chasm Lake to get a good feel for the beauty you’ll experience.
Eat Out
One of Chris’ favorite places to grab a bite in town is Inkwell & Brew – and adorable coffee shop with delicious pastries that “caters to folks who have appreciation for finely crafted goods that are made in an unhurried manner”. You’ll love perusing their selection of letterpress and hand-painted greeting cards, fountain pens and unique journals with a warm beverage in hand.
Around Town
For a favorite thing to do in town, Chris and his staff recommend heading to Cascade Creek Mini Golf Course. They have two 18-hole mini golf courses, which are perfect for the whole family to enjoy quality time together dodging obstacles and water features as you try for a hole in one.
Enjoy Nature
When asked about her favorite place to enjoy nature, Rhonda Jurgens, a longtime resident of Estes Park and owner of the Quality Inn of Estes Park says “Anywhere in Rocky Mountain National Park. I try to get up to Old Fall River Road and over to Grand Lake at least two times each summer.”
Around Town
One of Rhonda’s favorite things to do in Estes Park is to take the trolley around town with her grandson. They love to hop off and walk into stores along the route to check out what’s new! The free Elkhorn Express trolley serves the Elkhorn Avenue corridor during the summer months. The trolley route begins and ends at the Visitor Center.