Most people think hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park means steep climbs, high-altitude passes, and lung-burning switchbacks. But some of the most rewarding days in the park don’t require big elevation gain at all. In fact, you can cover 8–15 miles in a single day on gentle, family-friendly terrain that still delivers the sweeping views, wildlife encounters, and serene landscapes the Rockies are famous for. If you want a full...

Winter in Estes Park is one of the most magical, breathtaking times to get married. Snow-covered peaks, quiet forests, frost-kissed lake views, and crisp mountain air create a backdrop straight out of a storybook. But with beauty comes mountain weather—and winter weddings require preparation. Below is a complete guide to help couples (and their guests) plan confidently for a December or January wedding in Estes Park. Weather Expectations Estes Park...

Every November in Rocky Mountain National Park, something remarkable begins to happen. As the days shorten and the high peaks gather their first deep snows, thin sheets of ice spread across the surfaces of alpine lakes like Sky Pond and Dream Lake. Visitors see frozen water and assume the world beneath must fall silent. But the truth is far more fascinating. Even under ice, trout continue living, feeding, and navigating...

Expert Tips from Local Guides in Estes Park Snowshoeing may be one of the simplest winter sports to learn, but there’s one detail that makes or breaks the entire experience: proper snowshoe fit. If your bindings are loose, your heel is slipping, your size is wrong, or the traction underfoot isn’t aligned, every step becomes harder than it should be. That leads to fatigue, discomfort, and sometimes even injury. As...

Winter Tips, Gear Checklist, and Local Insight from Estes Park Tour Guides Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most magical winter experiences in Colorado. Snow muffles the world, trails transform into quiet white corridors, and familiar summer destinations like Bear Lake or Bierstadt Lake feel like an entirely different planet. For families, first-time visitors, and anyone who thinks winter is only for skiers—snowshoeing is one of...

A Complete Starter Guide from Your Friends at Estes Park Tour Guides Planning a family hike in Rocky Mountain National Park should feel exciting, not overwhelming. But if you’ve never hiked in Colorado—or you’re bringing kids, grandparents, or a group—just figuring out what to pack can create anxiety before you even step onto the trail. The good news? With just a few smart essentials, you’ll be fully prepared for an...

Planning a trip to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re the one in charge of making the plans for your family. Between picking the right lodging, planning activities everyone will enjoy, and making sure meals, nap times, and downtime all fit in, it’s a lot to balance. The good news? You don’t have to do it all alone. One of the smartest ways to...

With its high elevation, dry mountain air, and wide-open alpine skies, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places in Colorado to see the stars. Far from city lights, the night sky here feels ancient and unspoiled. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a river of light, planets shine brightly, and countless constellations tell stories as old as human history. Why the...