I’d stay in Boulder, hands down. Much more to do and see. RMNP is super, but that’s the best part of the Estes Park area. When visiting the park, my husband and I always travel back down to Boulder as there is nowhere at all decent to eat that is decent in Estes Park.
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How far is Boulder from Estes?
The distance between Boulder and Estes Park is 29 miles. The road distance is 37.9 miles.
Which side of Rocky Mountain National Park is better?
The most dramatic mountain views and favorite hikes in RMNP are on the east side. There are many more hikes and areas of RMNP to explore on the east side. The east side is more diverse. This also makes the east side and the town of Estes Park which is adjacent to the east side of RMNP much busier.
Where should I stay if I want to go to Rocky Mountain National Park?
Your best bets are its two gateway towns—Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west. Both offer plenty of options, and it’s simple enough to commute from the towns into the heart of the park.
How many days do you need in Estes Park?
Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Rocky Mountain National Park. This gives you enough time to drive Alpine Ridge Road, Old Fall River Road, and hike a few of the trails. If you are an avid hiker, I recommend spending five or more days in Rocky Mountain National Park.
What is special about Estes Park?
Estes Park, just 90 minutes from Denver, is located at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. A majestic mountain destination known for outdoor adventure, watchable wildlife and scenic beauty, Estes Park is Colorado’s quintessential mountain town.
Is Boulder better than Colorado Springs?
If you are into the outdoors, food and drink Boulder is the better pick. The University adds a young hip vibe. Colorado Springs is more family orientated, suburban with a conservative influence due to the military and Focus on the Family.
What city is closest to Rocky Mountain National Park?
Towns & Cities Near Rocky Mountain National Park
- Estes Park, CO. 7.9 mi / 21 mins.
- Lyons, CO. 28.7 mi / 51 mins.
- Boulder, CO. 44.7 mi / 1 hour 15 mins.
- Denver, CO. 78.5 mi / 1 hour 46 mins.
- Winter Park, CO. 111 mi / 2 hours 44 mins.
- Granby, CO. 131 mi / 3 hours 8 mins.
- Grand Lake, CO. 147 mi / 3 hours 28 mins.
Is Trail Ridge Road scary to drive?
If you don’t like heights be warned, there are switch backs and steep sides with very few barriers on this route through the mountains. The road is actually far less scary than many of Colorado’s famous mountain roads.
How far is Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes?
Perched at 7,200 feet and 90 miles away from Denver, Estes Park is a fantastic basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park’s eastern side. You also can access the park’s west side via the park’s spectacular Trail Ridge Road, which connects the two sides of the park.
Where should I stay when going to Estes Park?
Best Estes Park lodging near Beaver Meadows Entrance Gate:
- The Landing at Estes Park. Excellent reviews, splendid setting, and just near the park entrance.
- Alpine Trail Ridge Inn. Motel with heated outdoor pool and a restaurant.
- Rams Horn Village Resort and Beaver Brook on the River.
- YMCA of the Rockies.
Can you stay overnight in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Unlike some national parks, there are no overnight accommodations in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many lodging options in the nearby communities of Estes Park and Grand Lake.
Can you see the Rocky Mountains from Boulder?
Just 60-90 minutes outside of Boulder is the east entrance to ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK. With its crystalline lakes, fragrant ponderosa pine forests and sprawling meadows you can hike, picnic, drive Trail Ridge Road, spot wildlife and enjoy the spectacular terrain.
Is Estes Park worth visiting?
Estes Park is an idyllic “base camp” town at the Eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and is well worth exploring prior to your visit. Of course, this is the ideal spot to purchase plenty of supplies before you head deep into the national park.
What is the best time to visit Estes Park?
The best time to visit Estes Park is from June to September. The four-month period of warm weather allows travelers to comfortably explore the area’s offerings.
Does it cost money to get into Estes Park?
An entrance fee is charged to get into Rocky Mountain National Park. Currently there is a $35 per vehicle entrance fee which is good for 7 days.The park has a “Day Use Pass” valid for one day only and costs $25. Also, if you walk in or take the Shuttle Bus, a fee of $20 per person is charged, good for 7 days.
Why is Estes Park so popular?
Located just 90 minutes outside of Denver, at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Estes Park is a classic mountain village with a long heritage, that is beloved for its majestic mountain beauty, free-roaming wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Is Estes Park pretty?
The setting of Estes Park is absolutely beautiful. The town sits in a valley surrounded by mountains. The Continental Divide towers over the town and you have great views from almost anywhere in town including the Safeway Grocery Store parking lot. The downtown area is wonderfully landscaped.
Does Estes Park have a downtown?
Estes Park’s bustling downtown is filled shops, boutiques, and galleries offering something for everyone.
Is Fort Collins better than Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs has more military and high clearance stuff going on; Fort Collins has more (proportionally) high tech and ag stuff going on (or at least it seems so culturally).
Is it cheaper to live in Boulder or Colorado Springs?
Boulder is 60.2% more expensive than Colorado Springs. Boulder housing costs are 156.5% more expensive than Colorado Springs housing costs. Health related expenses are 0.9% less in Boulder.
