The BEST Way to Spend 1 Day in Estes Park during the Winter

Estes Park is commonly known as the gateway to the Rockies, appropriately named as it sits just 10 minutes away from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. There’s a reason why this small mountain town draws in thousands of visitors from across the country each year. The views are other worldly and only an hour and a half away from Denver - making Estes Park the perfect day trip for locals and visitors. Here’s how I would recommend spending one day in Estes Park during the winter.

Stop 1: Photo op at Estes Park Sign

Location: 2576 N St Vrain Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517

You get your first glimpse of the towering Rockies off of Highway 36 on your way into Estes Park. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to get some awesome, Instagram worthy group photos and selfies at the iconic Estes Park sign. The pull off will be on your right-hand side with a decent size pull off space. To avoid missing the sign, punch in the address above into your GPS when you start your drive instead of Estes Park. As always, be mindful of other tourists and traffic as it is adjacent to the highway.

Stop 2: The Stanley Hotel - Stephen King’s Inspiration for “The Shining”

Location: 333 E Wonderview Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517

Next on the agenda is the Stanley Hotel, Stephen King’s inspiration for the cult classic film and book “The Shining”. Although this is not the movie’s filming location, the premise of the Shining was inspired after the author’s stay at this hotel in Estes Park. It’s free to park and walk around the hotel without a cost. Although, if you’d like a guided tour, it costs $25 per person and lasts one hour. The hotel also offers night tours which are $30. Be sure to check out the gift shop if you’re a fan of Stephen King or the Shining. Even if you’re not a fan, the history of the hotel is interesting and is allegedly haunted. If you’re visiting from out of town and feeling brave, you can stay at the hotel as a guest.

Stop 3: Coffee in Downtown Estes Park at Inkwell and Brew

Location: 150 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517

If you’re looking for a warm and cozy coffee shop, look no further than Inkwell and Brew. This lofty, cabin style shop offers a wide range of caffeinated and non-caffeinated beverages as well as greeting cards, notebooks and journals downstairs. Upstairs you can find plenty of seating along with games and books customers are welcome to use. This is the perfect place to chill and fuel up before the big hike!

Stop 4: Rocky Mountain National Park - Hike Bear Lake to Dream Lake

Going to Rock Mountain National Park is a must if you’re visiting Estes Park. The National Park entrance fee was $30, and I would recommend buying a season pass if you plan on being a frequent visitor throughout the year. When we arrived, there was a sign that said the Bear Lake parking lot was full, but we decided to take our chances. The lot was in fact full, but we waited a few minutes to see if anyone would leave and a parking space did become available eventually. I would recommend having a back-up plan just in case you're unable to park at the trailhead since this is a very popular hike.

Trail Details: 

Length: 2.0 mi, out and back

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation gain: 459 ft

When I went in March, the trail was completely snow covered but it was packed down enough where snowshoes were not necessary. Although you definitely would need to bring microspikes! I passed a few people without spikes and they were struggling. I found the hike to be relatively easy, but I was undeniably walking at a slower pace due to the increased elevation. The trail head starts at 9,449 feet above sea level! If it’s your first time in the Rockies, remember to slow down, take lots of breaks if you feel out of breath, and drink plenty of water. Be sure to check the trail conditions on AllTrails before you head out. The views are absolutely stunning, so be sure to make time for this hike when you’re in Estes Park. I promise you won’t regret it.

AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/dream-lake-trail