Estes Park Recreation

With its location right next to the mountains and dazzling Lake Estes nearby, Estes Park is a definite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents and visitors have a plethora of recreational opportunities right outside their back door: hiking, fishing, swimming, golfing, river rafting, boating, rock climbing and hunting are all popular activities in and around Estes Park. No matter what your preference, there is something fun to do here.

Estes Park Golfing

 Estes Park Golf Course is a world-class golfing establishment that was recently named the sixth most beautiful golf course in the United States by The Golf Book of Lists. This 18-hole course sits right next to Rocky Mountain National Park. The links are open from mid-April through October. Herds of deer and elk watch, but rarely interfere with games. There is no need to rush through rounds here, as the surrounding views of snow-capped mountains are always worth savoring.

Lake Estes

 Located on the shores of beautiful and placid Lake Estes, the Lake Estes Marina provides for every water recreation need imaginable. If visitors would like to take a boat out on the lake, the marina offers everything from single person kayaks to nine person pontoons. The marina also has a boat launching area for those who own their own rides. The store also sells fishing licenses, bait and accessories, food and sun products. In addition, the Marina offers bike rentals for explorers who would rather stay on land.  

Rocky Mountain National Park

 The centerpiece of Estes Park outdoor recreation is, of course, Rocky Mountain National Park. The entrance to the park is just outside of town. Once inside, visitors are welcome to explore the pristine valleys and craggy peaks to their heart’s content. Camping and hiking opportunities both abound all over the park, with 5 drive-in campgrounds and 360 miles of trails within the friendly confines of the park. Long’s Peak, at 14,259 feet, offers novice mountain climbers a chance to claim their first “fourteener”. The animal life present in Rocky Mountain National Park is truly astounding and will provide many lasting memories to those who visit.

Estes Park Fishing

 The Big Thompson River winds through the heart of Estes Valley. The headwaters are in Rocky MountainNational Park, but the fishing doesn’t become great until just past Estes Park. Once there, fly fishers will discover a classic trout river that leaves little to be desired. Though it is not large – most spots are 25-35 feet wide – the Big Thompson carries a lot of fish for a river its size. Dry flies or nymphs are recommended to catch the foot long rainbow and brown trout that inhabit the water. The great thing about fishing the Big Thompson is that even if the fish aren’t biting, the gorgeous mountain views are always there.

 Bond Park is basically the center of Estes Park downtown outdoor entertainment. This large recreational park, located on the north side of Elkhorn Ave, hosts many of the city’s annual festivals. It provides a fantastic place for picnics, family gatherings, or just relaxing on a sunny day.