For over 100 years, Estes Park, Colorado has captivated every one of its visitors and made it nearly impossible for anyone to leave. What has enchanted people since the early 1990's, and is the same reason why people are still drawn in today, is the ample variety of wildlife and breathtaking scenery that covers every square inch of the town. This four-season destination has a lot to deliver; the crisp mountain air that makes your cheeks turn rosy, the downtown strip, home to mini ice cream shops and knick-knack boutiques, the general love the town has for nature never let anyone down. Since I was little, Estes Park has earned its name as my family's second home and as I sit here marking down the days until I return, I will explain why Estes Park has become my second home.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Estes Park's backyard and one of the most visited national parks in the country, it is incredible how a small mountain town can define a whole states entire beauty. If you do not go to RMNP, you are not seeing Estes for what it is nor are you seeing Colorado for what it is. The lyrics to America the Beautiful must have been thought of when visiting RMNP because spacious skies, amber waves of grain, and purple mountain majesties surround you in a 360 degree radius. More than likely you will run into the fascinating wildlife whom roam the valleys like kings and queens of the forest.
Within the boundaries of Rocky Mountain National Park, you begin to feel so small compared to the world. As more than 100 peaks rise above 11,000 feet in altitude, including Longs Peak at 14,259 feet, all your worries are thrown away and you suddenly realize the bigger picture. What is even more special about these incredible mountains is that many of the taller peaks make up the Continental Divide; where the snowmelt runs either west to the Pacific Ocean or east to the Atlantic. The most notable vehicle route, or if your crazy enough, walk or bike, is the famous Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuously paved highway in North America.
Every year, my family and I head up to Estes for a few days to attend the annual Elk Fest, and every single time we are blessed to see many wildlife. One of my most memorable moments was when we saw over hundred Elk grazing across the horizon as the sun was ready to set. The scenic moment left my family and many others in awe.
2. Downtown Estes Park
Imagine taking a sip of a fresh cup of coffee as you stroll alongside the Riverwalk. The sounds of the river flowing, leaves falling and birds chirping make up a sweet melody as gorgeous views render in every direction.
In the warmer months, you can find yourself spending hours going up and down the main street, window shopping, and being lured into the Old Fashioned Candy Store for some home-made taffy. Not to mention, this cute, photogenic town has restaurants that draws customers from beyond its community.
When the colder months drop by, spend hours at the ice skating ring until your feet go numb. Take a walk down the street and enjoy Christmas Lights in every store window as the glisten of the light reflects off the snow. End your day by a log fire your dad and brother made in your cabin.
3. Elk Fest
This year is the 18th Annual Elk Fest and my family and I are excited to experience Elk Fest all over again. We have been going for as long as I can remember and every year the experience only gets better. With many others, we gather to celebrate the annual elk rut and learn about the "wapiti," which is the Native American name for elk. The festival held in Bond Park is covered with little white tents full of venders selling handmade products, beautiful photography, and incredible foods made from local businesses.
The learning opportunities that come along with the festival are the reason why it was all put together in the first place and still continues to run. To educate those on the Colorado wildlife and the beauty that comes with it. The Rocky Mountain Raptor Program, elk seminars provided by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, elk-inspired arts and crafts, and Native American music, and dancing and storytelling go on throw out the day. Not to mention seeing the Elk almost every turn you take.
4. The History
As many should know, Estes Park is home to the ever so, hauntingly beautiful, Stanley Hotel. If you have ever seen the Shinning this hotel not only makes you feel like royalty but also like you are always accompanied and never alone... Even if you choose not to spend the night tours are always available and the first floor is open for tourists. Maybe you will even see Jack Nicholson wondering around the hotel with an axe. Have I ever seen him do that? Sadly, no, but my friend has so the chances are still high!
Not only is the Stanley a historical landmark, but many of the buildings throughout the town go way back and the lands are even more ancient. Archaeological records have shown that humans have enjoyed and resided Estes even 12,000 years ago, and around 2,000 B.C., the McKean people, one of the Paleo-Indian cultures, found Estes Park as their home.
My family and I are always drawn into anything that has rich history. Hence why Estes has become one of our favorite places to go. One of my favorite buildings is the old Movie Theater that still runs to this day.
5. Family Togetherness
The fifth reason why Estes Park has earned its name as my second home was hard to pick because I could go on and on about the endless reasons why I love this place, but after a few times of thinking it through, the reason that wrapped it all together was the sense of togetherness you get spending time in Estes with your family. Personally, nothing brings a family closer together than being in the mountains together. Visiting every building, shopping early for family Christmas gifts and watching nature take over when visiting the park is something we look forward to together every year. The moment we arrive at Estes Park feels like we never left and there we are able to create memories that we will remember for ever.
