Estes Park, Colorado

The resort town of Estes Park is the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Unlike other Colorado cities that were established as mining towns that experienced a boom and bust period, Estes Park was always dedicated to the tourist industry. The first white settler to live in the region was a rancher named Joel Estes, who arrived here in 1859. The majestic peaks of the Rockies are a constant presence here, and there are enough outdoor activities to keep visitors occupied year round.

The historic district of Estes Park village includes a number of independently owned restaurants, gift shops, and art galleries. Ice cream and fudge shops are also popular along this busy stretch of Elkhorn Avenue. Sightseers can take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway 1,100 feet up the side of Prospect Mountain to enjoy views of Estes Park village as well as Longs Peak and the Continental Divide.

Travelers looking for a place to stay will have plenty of options, from bed and breakfasts to modern log cabin style vacation homes, RV parks and campgrounds to elegantly furnished hotels. The exclusive Stanley Hotel, built in 1909 by the inventor of the Stanley Steamer, is on the National Register of Historic Places and an ideal resort for vacationing couples. The Stanley Hotel is also known for being the shooting location for the movie, "The Shining."

For traveling families, the Estes Park Center/YMCA of the Rockies is a 860 acre recreational wonderland, with nature hikes, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, zip line rides (for ages 12 and up) and other activities to help children appreciate the great outdoors in the summer, plus plenty of winter sport offerings during ski season. Guests can stay at the lodge, in small cottages, mountain cabins or larger vacation homes at affordable prices.