Estes Park Day Trips: Top 5 Adventures Outside of Town

Estes Park, you know, it’s almost like a storybook town, so it’s perfectly placed for all kinds of getaways. The town offers some wonderful things, like stunning scenery, quaint shops, so even great places to eat, that you really can explore. Yet, the real draw might be its fantastic position as a starting point to really wonderful day-long trips. Wanna add something extra to your visit? Let’s peek at five top-tier options for stepping outside Estes Park and making your trip something you’ll remember. Ready? We will discover great mountain views, charming towns, plus, believe it or not, a small taste of Colorado’s past.

1. Brainard Lake Recreation Area

First up is Brainard Lake, which is just a bit north of Estes Park, is that right? Getting there, that’s nearly a 1-hour drive and is basically all about enjoying peaceful settings. Now, picture yourself hiking surrounded by towering forests and you get it. When you reach Brainard Lake, so it is likely, the sparkling water acts almost like a mirror, mirroring the sky and the beautiful peaks all around. Actually, for an easy walk, take the trail nearly all the way around Brainard Lake itself, it’s almost completely flat. Want something tougher? Explore the trails, well they’re heading deeper into the Indian Peaks Wilderness. You might like to pack a picnic because there are spots right by the lake to eat lunch, really soak it all in. By the way, for photography buffs, early morning at Brainard Lake is a sight, as the light’s soft, very, very magical. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Brainard Lake)

A few things you should think about. This recreation zone might be rather crowded on weekends, specifically throughout the summer time, it’s almost full of locals and tourist, basically a hive of activity. You really need to get there early, or, it’s also worth visiting throughout the off-season. There’s typically an entrance fee. so you definitely have to be geared up to pay as you go into the area. Keep in mind the climate conditions; mountain weather could swap quickly. Layers are the best for any outing. Read our full review: Brainard Lake Full Review and Details

2. The Town of Nederland

Nederland, which is a unique mountain town, lies roughly an hour’s drive southeast of Estes Park. As you drive, just like going back, the trip takes you across curvy mountain passes. When you get to Nederland, it seems almost like time stops. It’s pretty famous for its funky environment, is that right? Nederland gives one a great sense of Colorado living with no big city life, sort of laid back and quaint. Don’t skip visiting the Carousel of Happiness, that’s a hand-carved carousel which brings a smile to literally every face, big or little. Very different gift stores and nearby cafes give you a look at the local vibe, really. The eating places there are great too! Check out local favorites like Busey Brews Smokehouse and Pub and Crosscut Pizzeria and Taphouse! It’s the best!

Around Nederland, there are some paths excellent for taking walks and watching the scenery. One quite popular option happens to be the hike to Lost Lake, so it is almost a serene setting just best for those looking for a silent spot in the wild. The Fourth of July is an important occasion in Nederland. Celebrations take place throughout the city. Keep a close eye on Nederland’s celebration schedule so that you will experience this celebration properly. So Nederland can also be easily reached from Boulder if you’re including a bigger circle across the region. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Nederland)

When visiting, be aware that mountain climate conditions are quite changeable; you must actually bring levels to be sure you are comfortable and safe and warm. Because Nederland lies at an altitude of more than 8,000 toes, give your frame an opportunity to adapt to the thinner air to limit altitude sickness. For all kinds of travelers seeking something one of a kind, Nederland is nearly a breath of unpolluted air, an ideal mountain retreat for all!

Read our full review: Nederland Full Review and Details

3. Rocky Mountain National Park (Beyond Estes Park)

While Estes Park gives entry to the amazing Rocky Mountain National Park, so it’s easy to forget you could move further inside for much more discovery! Seriously, you shouldn’t be afraid to find something interesting on this grand plot. Get prepared to take Trail Ridge Road; that spans from one facet of the park to the other. The views at each turn literally leave one speechless, actually displaying big mountain views and the huge sky above. Keep some animal viewing apparatus equipped while on your exploration trip, it’s a good idea. This can be an remarkable chance of getting near a few local animals which includes elk, deer and once in a while even bears. Take a guided walk to study a few of the regional plants and creatures or discover one of the much less traveled trekking tracks that permit you to experience tranquility deep inside mother nature’s core, or go fly-fishing on one of the many crystal clear creeks!

Going past Estes Park within the Rocky Mountain National Park takes you deep right into a safeguarded panorama of massive peak splendor. The huge spaces of undisturbed backcountry can literally take your breath away; the park truly is nature at her best. If you’re keen on something more adventurous, strive hiking to a few of the park’s backcountry camping sites. Yet, constantly bear in mind that the wilderness should be valued and taken care of to maintain its appeal for folks to enjoy for many years down the road! Before entering, verify for any alerts regarding street blockages due to weather or maintenance paintings to ensure safety, usually on mountain trips like this, weather will determine accessibility and comfort. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (RMNP)

Read our full review: Rocky Mountain National Park Full Review and Details

4. Cache la Poudre River Canyon

Next, we’re off to the Cache la Poudre River Canyon, which is east of Estes Park. So, here’s the deal, the drive along the Poudre River will take you via a stunning, but still natural placing, and you’ll possibly experience it. Colorado’s only national scenic byway gives greater than simply stunning landscape. The spot is really loved by individuals that enjoy their time inside the water! This river provides great opportunities for fishing, kayaking and particularly white-water rafting!

There are also numerous trekking possibilities along the canyon’s edges and beyond. It really lets everyone have the capacity to go out into the canyon and spend hours discovering its grandeur! Various campgrounds can be observed if that’s what you wish to do along the Cache la Poudre River, ranging from established locations with full facilities to the extra simple, again-to-nature places. Before you set up your campsite, be certain that you get permission, respect rules and comply with all posted commands concerning fires and animals. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Poudre River Canyon)

Prior to touring, make certain to look into current climate and river conditions because they regularly have an effect on how secure certain activities are! Wear strong shoes that are suitable to walking through perhaps harsh areas whilst hiking across the rugged banks alongside rivers; moreover, don’t forget about sun display lotion or mosquito repellent for defense towards mother nature itself. It is almost always more safe than sorry and constantly prepares appropriately so every traveller’s experience will go flawlessly with this interesting trip into one of Colorado’s most lovely spots near Estes Park.

Read our full review: Cache la Poudre River Canyon Full Review and Details

5. Grand Lake

Take a look at Grand Lake, which happens to be found west of Estes Park. Did you know Grand Lake’s the biggest and deepest herbal lake in Colorado? It is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes and has kind of an old-style appeal. This small town, so it is quite charming, delivers some fun adventures mixed in with laid-back rest!

See the serene water by renting a boat or kayak. Also, try going for a stroll thru Grand Avenue. Find great gifts from local stores. There are trails around the lake. They’re for all hiking levels. One famous route that really shows the appeal of this place is the East Inlet Trail. Make sure you check out the historic theatre too. If that doesn’t interest you, go find a nearby cafe and treat yourself to some fantastic food! Enjoy the sunset from the shores. If you don’t leave right away, it is usually one great way to cap off your visit at Grand Lake. This place gets pretty busy in summer. Finding a parking spot may well become difficult sometimes. Try arriving there quite early or in the late afternoon hours if feasible. If going for walks and investigating backcountry regions around this lake, usually deliver what’s required, it is a top priority. Put in an energy bar snack and first resource materials alongside other gadgets deemed appropriate when heading faraway into such territory. Weather conditions right here can exchange, very, very swiftly: consequently clothing layers offer very handy help for comfort even as being out there discovering. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Grand Lake)

When planning, ensure to factor in extra travel time, in case of traffic holds or construction; these kinds of situations sometimes pop unexpectedly specifically along remote mountain passes, in particular to these spots. Exploring and hiking usually are fantastic for outdoor fans who want a little bit of exhilaration, near tranquil nature attractions surrounding the tranquil beauty this lake shows! It serves as one fantastic location to make memorable vacation memories if traveling inside Colorado.

Read our full review: Grand Lake Full Review and Details