3 Days

Winter Roamin' in Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park

Avoid lift lines and I-70 traffic by exploring snow sports in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. There are no ski lifts, but there is an abundance of snowshoeing, splitboarding, backcountry skiing, fat biking and ice climbing. And the powder can't be beat!

Itinerary Tip

Backcountry Safety

Get out in front of backcountry danger this winter, and keep safety top-of-mind! Seek education and training prior to heading out, or utilize a professional guide or a seasoned mentor to explore Colorado's backcountry. Find more ways to get informed and stay safe in Colorado.

Sustainability Activity

Travel Like a Local

There are special places and unique vistas around nearly every Colorado corner. You can help ensure these places exist for generations to come by staying on roads and trails, keeping speeds in check, leaving campsites and picnic spots just as you found them, and following instructional signs while you’re out and about in our state.

Day 1

activity

Estes Park Mountain Shop

Find all the gear you need for your next Rocky Mountain adventure at the Estes Park Mountain Shop. Since 1986, we have offered equipment, apparel, rentals,…

Insider's Tip

Rent Your Snowshoes & Head for the Hills

Tackle Lumpy Ridge Loop via snowshoe. You can stop and turn around at Gem Lake for a 3-mile trek or go all the way around for a 10.7-mile workout.

lunch

Poppy's Pizza & Grill

Dine next to the Big Thompson River, inside or outside. Enjoy burgers, homemade soups, salad bar, vegetarian, fun beers, wine and pizza!

activity

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.

Our mission is simple: brew, distribute and serve delicious beer in an inspired place where guests will want to return to again and again.

dinner

Latitude 105 Alehouse

Craft Beer. Classic Cocktails. Rocky Mountain Inspired Cuisine.

Located inside The Ridgeline Hotel, enjoy comfort foods like nachos, wings, burgers,…

lodging

Holiday Inn Estes Park

Just three miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, the Holiday Inn Estes Park delivers an elevated vacation experience — in more ways than one. Neighboring…

Insider's Tip

S'mores Before Bed

The Ridgeline Hotel has fire pits just waiting for your crew to get their s'mores on. All the ingredients are included in your stay, so you just have to show up to get your hands sticky and your belly full.

Day 2

breakfast

Claire's On the Park

Feast on one of their legendary breakfasts (green chili huevos rancheros, anyone?) while taking in the views from their scenic patio. Claire's…

activity

Kent Mountain Adventure Center

32 years experience teaching rock climbing, mountaineering, splitboarding and backcountry skiing. We take more that 1,800 people each year on their…

Insider's Tip

Let Kent Mountain Adventure Center Take You For a Ride

Check out KMAC's splitboarding or backcountry ski schools. These programs last about 8 hours, so be sure to pack a picnic lunch before you head out for this full day of learning and winter excitement.

dinner

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

Built in 1937 as a dance hall for the Big Band Era, The Rock Inn continues to be a lively gathering place with local flair.

activity

Estes Park Brewery

Established in 1994. We offer more than 12 fresh, handcrafted beers straight from our brewery, as well as root beer. Grab a sample of each and you will…

lodging

Holiday Inn Estes Park

Just three miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, the Holiday Inn Estes Park delivers an elevated vacation experience — in more ways than one. Neighboring…

Day 3

breakfast

Mountain Home Cafe

For years, Mountain Home Cafe has been serving breakfast and lunch in Estes Park. It is family owned and operated. And a favorite for locals & visitors…

activity

Estes Park Mountain Shop

Find all the gear you need for your next Rocky Mountain adventure at the Estes Park Mountain Shop. Since 1986, we have offered equipment, apparel, rentals,…

Insider's Tip

Get Outfitted for Fat Biking

Let the Estes Park Mountain Shop hook you up with fat bikes (regular mountain bikes with fat tires that help you ride atop the snow). Ask the experts there for the best place to hit the trails while you're there, or try A Short Homestead Tour.

lunch

Ed's Cantina & Grill

Our diverse and flavorful menu provides customers with delicious Mexican and American fare. You'll find the comfortable, warm restaurant filled with…

activity

Elements of Touch Wellness Spa & River Retreat

Nestled beside tall trees along a flowing river is Elements of Touch. Celebrating their 29th year in Estes treating tourists and locals alike from a…

dinner

Grubsteak

Juicy steaks, wild game and fantastic burgers in an old west atmosphere! Largest shaded patio. Sunny pub room.

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activity

Snowy Peaks Winery

Wide selection of varieties made from Colorado-grown grapes.

lodging

Holiday Inn Estes Park

Just three miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, the Holiday Inn Estes Park delivers an elevated vacation experience — in more ways than one. Neighboring…

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