Estes Park Fall Activities
Fall is a wonderful season to visit Estes Park with cooler temperatures, vibrant colors overtaking the mountains, and still plenty of recreational activities to take advantage of! Get an idea of the fall fun you can enjoy with our fall itinerary to help you plan your own long weekend in the Rockies.
Thursday
Arrive in Estes Park on Thursday evening and pick up your key to your cabin or accommodation.
Let someone else do the cooking tonight after all your traveling today. You’ll head on over to Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse for an amazing barbecue with a local flavor.
Then, get a haunting introduction to Estes Park with a 90-minute night ghost tour at the famous Stanley Hotel. You’ll learn about the town’s history, its most popular residents, and the ones that have stayed a little longer than expected.
Friday
Start your morning off with vibrant hues of gold as you hike through Rocky Mountain National Park during the changing season. It’s hard to find a trail that doesn’t show off impressive views of the fall foliage and you’ll definitely want to make sure your camera is charged for this adventure.
This afternoon you’re on the hunt for another spirit but not of the ghostly kind. After your hike, head into town to visit Snowy Peaks Winery and sample some delightful Colorado creations. Stay for the live music on Friday evenings from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Then, visit the grocery store to stock up on supplies for your dinner tonight before heading back to your cabin to cook up a delicious meal. Dine al fresco and enjoy the natural backdrop surrounding your cabin and fresh Rocky Mountain air.
Saturday
In the morning, head back into the park to explore another hiking trail or try something new and take a rock climbing lesson and guided trip with Estes Park Mountain Shop. Learn the basics or take the advanced skills course if you already have the basics down. You’ll learn how to tie your knots, how to belay, and effectively communicate with your fellow climbers. Classes range from four hours to eight and include a light snack or full lunch.
If you did the four-hour trip, you’re probably ready for a filling lunch! Either stay in town and check out a great local pub or restaurant or get back to your cabin and prepare lunch yourself and enjoy some downtime after your active morning.
If you’re visiting in early October, you’ll want to join in on the fun and educational activities at Elk Fest! Held in Bond Park, you can learn more about our elk populations and their history with Native Americans, and get directions to hikes known for elk sightings. Other popular fall festivals include the Autumn Gold Festival in September and the Fall Back Beer Festival in November.
Cook another delightful dinner and enjoy the comforts of your home away from home tonight. Play a game on the back patio or visit the game room for some after-dinner activities.
Sunday
Breakfast comes early this morning as you’re off for your two-hour horseback ride to Emerald Mountain with Jackson Stables. This loop starts on the Glacier Basin Trail and winds through the color-changing aspens and provides a range of views of the park. If you’re hoping to sleep in, then plan for the 1 p.m. Moraine Park two-hour ride though this is more popular as you’ll get views of the Continental Divide and great wildlife watching.
After your ride, keep with the Old West theme and stroll along Elkhorn Avenue for your old-time portrait, a fantastic souvenir from Estes Park! After your photo shoot, grab some lunch at The Wapiti Colorado Pub. Wapiti is the Native American word for elk! Once you’ve had your fill, enjoy window shopping or actual shopping for those souvenirs your family will be hoping for. You might also find yourself sampling some taffy or sweet treats along the way.
Head back to your cabin and enjoy some quality time with your travel companion or companions and take advantage of the on-site amenities and games.
Finally, cook your last dinner in your cabin or head into town to visit a restaurant you spotted on your shopping spree this afternoon.
View other Estes Park activities to plan your own custom itinerary.