Our most recommended things to do in Estes Park

Estes Park: Rocky Mountain NP Glass-Top Guided Morning Tour

1. Estes Park: Rocky Mountain NP Glass-Top Guided Morning Tour

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park on a guided tour from Estes Park. Travel up above the trees in a glass-top convertible van. Take a short hike or two and see fast-flowing snow melt, waterfalls, and glaciers. Enjoy coffee, hot drinks, and a variety on board. Learn all about the science and history of the Rockies and its animals with your guide. Travel up the famous Old Fall River Road, which is the original high alpine road that opened in 1920 and is part of the National Register of Historic Places. Take a halfway break at the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest-altitude visitor center of any national park. Get free time to visit the cafeteria and gift shop, as well as soak in amazing “top of the world” tundra views. Upon leaving the Alpine Visitor Center, travel back towards Estes Park. Journeying across Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching the highest point on the road at 12,183 feet. Get spectacular views from inside the panoramic van, and above the tree line. With a fully closable glass roof, stay protected from the chilly, hurricane-force winds produced in the alpine tundra. If Old Fall River Road is closed for the season, hit the Trail Ridge Road to go both up and down the mountain, with the highest point accessible being the turnaround point.

From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Day Trip and Lunch

2. From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Day Trip and Lunch

Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park on this day trip from Denver. See nature at its finest as you take in unspoiled views and magnificent peaks. Cruise down Trail Edge Road and through Estes Park in a comfortable and airconditioned van. Stop for a nice picnic in a stunning natural setting.  Meet your local guide at the Denver Union Station and climb aboard a spacious van with plenty of legroom. Sit back and relax on the drive to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Take in views of the city of Boulder on the drive.  Stop to see the iconic Flatirons red-rock formation. Admire views of this 300-million-year-old wonder that lies in the Rocky Mountain foothills. Feel as though you are on top of the world as you cruise down Trail Edge Road which offers plenty of opportunities for capturing breathtaking photos. Indulge in delicious picnic lunch as you enjoy views of the Rocky Mountains in the background. Visit the Stanley Hotel which was made famous as the shooting location for Stephen King's film 'The Shining.' Encounter marvelous views of the Rocky Mountains as you drive through Estes Park. Return to your meeting point in Denver at the end of your Rocky Mountain adventure. 

Rocky Mountain National Park: Driving Audio Tour App

3. Rocky Mountain National Park: Driving Audio Tour App

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Note: This 40+ miles-long tour covers the essentials of Rocky Mountain Park in 2-3 hours. Experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park with this audio tour that works offline. Use the live GPS to learn more about historical sites, natural landscapes, and the people who have lived in this area. Start at the Estes Park entrance and travel toward sparkling Bear Lake. Pass numerous hiking trails to smaller lakes like Fern Lake and Bierstadt Lake. Make as many stops or take as many detours as you like. Reach Deer Mountain Trailhead. Head to Beaver Ponds which has a boardwalk through a unique wetland biome. Travel to Hidden Valley and Marvel at the views of lush glacial meadows at Many Parks Curve Overlook. Hear about the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Uncover the buried history of the Ute tribe and listen to a Ute story. Go by the Roger Toll Memorial. Tour at your own pace and let your audio guide reveal all this and more as you drive along.

From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter Tour

4. From Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Fall/Winter Tour

Get to know the wild side of Denver, with a tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Take the day to walk through the stunning mountain and valley scenes, spotting wildlife and touring around a glacier lake. Delight in a meal and shopping in Estes Park, then catchup on local history at the Stanley Hotel. Arrive at the Rocky Mountain National Park and allow yourself to explore the diverse natural beauty of Colorado. Walk the snowy paths, and catch sight of elk grazing on rich grasses in Moraine Park. Then, gaze at the mountains and park views at Many Parks Curve. Explore the nature-made Alluvial Fan in Horseshoe Park, and meander through the mountain village of Estes Park, admiring artwork, shops, and the leisurely pace of discovery. Grab some lunch in the village, and continue through the day to learn more about the power of Mother Nature. Make a visit to the Historic Stanley Hotel, and experience this manor-style hotel. Who knows, maybe you'll find it so inviting, you'll book a night or two in the glacial mountains.

Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Tour with Picnic Lunch

5. Denver: Rocky Mountain National Park Tour with Picnic Lunch

Immerse yourself in the spectacular sights of Rocky Mountain National Park with a guided day trip from Denver. Hike the park trails while watching for local wildlife such as elk, eagles, and marmots. Savor a picnic lunch and discover alpine lakes and waterfalls. Begin your tour by meeting your guide at the designated pickup point and drive into Rocky Mountain National Park in an air-conditioned van. Admire incredible mountain views as you head deeper into the park, stopping at the scenic panoramic overlook at Many Parks Curve, a hairpin turn on Trail Ridge Road. Proceed to Horseshoe Park to discover a staggering alluvial fan, a naturally made deposit of water-transported material. Explore several short trails, watch for native wildlife such as elk and deer, traverse wide meadows, and wander by waterfalls, alpine lakes, and fragile alpine tundra. Take a break from hiking for a picnic lunch. Enjoy one last glance at the expansive forests, sprawling meadows, and towering mountains before driving back to your pickup location. Visit the village's art galleries and The Stanley Hotel, best known for inspiring the novel "The Shining" by Steven King.

Rocky Mountain: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

6. Rocky Mountain: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

Don’t miss a thing as your favorite audio tour narrator guides you to not-to-be-missed places of interest, along with fascinating stories, tips and directions across Rocky Mountain National Park. Follow the suggested itineraries, or divide the commentary and create your own half, full or multi day sightseeing trips. Rocky Mountain National Park boasts the very best of what Colorado and the Rocky Mountains has to offer: unbelievably scenic mountains, awesome hiking and superb wildlife viewing. Major Highlights: Alpine Visitor Center Bear Lake Estes Park Grand Lake Holzwarth Historic Site Lava Cliffs Mushroom Rocks Old Fall River Road Overlooks: Many Parks, Rainbow Curve & Forest Canyon Sprague Lake The Stanley Trail Ridge Road Includes: Created with the driving visitor in mind, Rocky Mountain National Park has an outstanding and picturesque scenic drive, climbing above the tree-line to 12,000 feet, surrounded by towering Colorado peaks on the Trail Ridge and Old Falls Roads. Nowhere else in the country can you drive a scenic route that brings you above the treeline and into the alpine tundra for 11 miles, peaking at altitudes over 12,000 feet. There are many scenic viewpoints including Rainbow Curve Outlook and Mushroom Rocks overlooks along the driving route, and easy, accessible trails at Sprague and Bear Lakes. Or you may want to follow the historic route that the earliest visitors drove in their Stanley Steamers or Model T’s on the Old Fall River Road. Along the drive, you'll hear all about the “Father of Rocky Mountain National Park” and the other influential characters who fought and invested heavily to preserve this area. But many visitors are drawn by the excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Especially during the Fall rut when male bull elk and moose are fending off rivals vocally and physically. The audio tour will point out the best locations to keep watch and increase your chances. This is a truly unique experience that has thrilled drivers and passengers since the 1920s.

Estes Park: Rocky Mountain Retractable Glass-Top Guided Tour

7. Estes Park: Rocky Mountain Retractable Glass-Top Guided Tour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the eastern side of the Rocky Mountain National Park while enjoying complimentary hot drinks and snacks on this guided tour from Estes Park. Hop aboard a luxurious minibus that has a retractable glass roof that allows you to take in the park’s spectacular views. Set off from the meeting point in Estes Park and enter the park during the most coveted timed-entry slot. Relax on a tour that allows you to soak up the views without any hiking. Stop at multiple viewpoints to admire the park’s natural wonders and take some photos to share with friends back home. Keep your energy up on the way with coffee, hot drinks, light refreshments and a variety of tasty snacks on the bus. Cross through scenic alpine tundra on the way to the Alpine Visitor Center where the bus will stop for a break. Have free time to visit the cafeteria and gift shop or take in some amazing “top of the world” views. Head back down the Trail Ridge Road and then venture into the Bear Lake Corridor. Explore Moraine Park (Meadow), and then venture up the road towards Bear Lake. NOTE: September through October this tour will feature the elk rut for the last portion of this tour. End with a stop at either Sprague Lake or Bear Lake(Unless Elk Rut is underway). Both of which are well noted for their ease of access, as well as their outstanding beauty. Return to your meeting point at the conclusion of your tour. Purple Mountain Tour Co Meeting location 165 Virginia Dr Estes Park CO City public paid parking lots (multiple within one block, $2/hr) are the best option for parking as there is no private onsite parking and street spaces directly in front of office is 3hr limit. The Estes Park Visitors Center also has a free parking garage and is located .5 mile from our office with a free seasonal shuttle dropping across the street from our office at Bond Park,

Rocky Mountain National Park: Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour

8. Rocky Mountain National Park: Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park with Shaka Guide's Audio Tour App. Let the app be your knowledgeable and engaging guide, providing insightful commentary, fascinating stories, and practical tips as you explore this iconic wilderness. As you enter Rocky Mountain National Park, prepare to be mesmerized by the towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and sprawling meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see. The app will paint a vivid picture of the park's geological wonders, its diverse wildlife, and the importance of preserving this cherished natural treasure. Follow the app's guidance as you venture along scenic drives, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Learn about the park's unique ecosystems, from the subalpine forests to the alpine tundra, and discover the fascinating adaptations of the plants and animals that call this place home. Embark on exhilarating hikes along the park's extensive trail network, guided by the app's insightful commentary. Whether you're exploring the iconic Trail Ridge Road or discovering hidden gems like Bear Lake or Emerald Lake, the app will enhance your experience with fascinating insights into the area's history, geology, and the delicate balance of nature. Unwind amidst the tranquility of nature by enjoying a picnic surrounded by the breathtaking scenery or simply taking a moment to absorb the peaceful ambiance of the mountains. The app will provide recommendations for ideal picnic spots, scenic viewpoints, and areas with the best chances of spotting wildlife. Things you'll experience on the tour: • Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States • Experience wildlife viewing opportunities by keeping an eye out for mule deer, bighorn sheep, and moose. • Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing during the winter months. • Visit Visitor Centers to learn about the park's geology, wildlife, and conservation initiatives. • Glacial melt that carved it into the shape of a horseshoe millions of years ago. • Capture stunning photographs of the majestic landscapes, including the towering peaks, wildflower-filled meadows, and dramatic mountain vistas. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a curious traveler, Shaka Guide's Audio Tour App will enrich your exploration of Rocky Mountain National Park. Let the app be your trusted companion, offering fascinating stories, insightful commentary, and practical information to enhance your connection with this remarkable wilderness. Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park with Shaka Guide's Audio Tour App, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

RMNP Winter SUV tour

9. RMNP Winter SUV tour

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park on a guided tour from Estes Park. Take a short hike or two and see fast-flowing snow melt, waterfalls, and glaciers. Enjoy coffee, hot drinks, and a variety on board. Learn all about the science and history of the Rockies and its animals with your guide. Travel up the famous Old Fall River Road ( when road is open), which is the original high alpine road that opened in 1920 and is part of the National Register of Historic Places. Journeying across Trail Ridge Road , the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching the highest point on the road at 12,183 feet (when road is open to that point) Get spectacular views from inside the panoramic SUV, and above the tree line. If Old Fall River Road is closed for the season, hit the Trail Ridge Road to go both up and down the mountain, with the highest point accessible being the turnaround point. Travel to the coveted Bear Lake Corridor, explore some of the beautiful meadows and possibly wildlife this amazing corridor has to offer.

Estes Park: Rocky Mountain National Park Snowshoeing Tour

10. Estes Park: Rocky Mountain National Park Snowshoeing Tour

Put on your snowshoes and discover the winter wonderland of Rocky Mountain National Park on this tour with a local guide. Admire spectacular views, take photos of unforgettable scenery, and immerse yourself in complete tranquility. Head to the Estes Park Mountain Shop to rent your own snowshoes, boots, and poles, or bring your own. Then, learn the basics of snowshoeing so you can get the most out of this fun and unique way of trekking in the snow. Follow alongside your guide who will take you to hidden locations only locals know and share with you their knowledge about the region and snowshoeing technique. 

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What people are saying about Estes Park

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 220 reviews

Don’t even hesitate - this is one of the best tours I’ve ever taken! The Rocky Mountains are truly stunning in winter. Emily our tour guide was wonderful, had so many interesting facts to share and had boundless energy. The stop at the Stanley Hotel was a cool extra addition!

Great tour with very knowledgeable guide. Van is clean and comfortable. Good filling sandwich for lunch with chips and a cookie included. Make sure to bring a water bottle.

I enjoyed seeing Rocky Mountain National Park and all of the cute towns that surround it. Our guide Will was very knowledgeable and had plenty of great stories to tell us.

this was a great way to learn more about the park, it's history, and geology. it was just the right amount of information, easy to use, stop, restart

Brian was great. The views were amazing. The only thing that could have helped was telling people to met at the flag pole. Worth the money!!!!!!