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Exploring the Great Outdoors: 10 Fun Things to do with Kids in Estes Park
Estes Park is a perfect destination for families looking to explore the great outdoors. With its breathtaking mountain views, easy access to trails, and abundance of wildlife, Estes Park offers a great variety of activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a day of hiking, fishing, or exploring wildlife, Estes Park has something for everyone. Here are 10 fun things to do with kids in Estes Park.
1. Take a Scenic Drive
One of the best things to do in Estes Park is to take a scenic drive. Estes Park is home to some of Colorado’s most breathtaking views, and a drive around the area is the perfect way to take in the sights. From the towering mountains to the rushing rivers, you’ll be sure to see something amazing. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way!
For a more adventurous drive, consider taking the Trail Ridge Road. This iconic road takes you up to the top of the Continental Divide, with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains all around. The road is full of twists and turns, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey.
No matter what route you choose, a scenic drive in Estes Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
2. Go Hiking
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the great outdoors in Estes Park. With hundreds of miles of trails, it’s easy to find something that’s perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll through the park, or an all-day trek through the mountains, Estes Park has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a short and easy hike, consider the Lily Lake Loop. This 2.5 mile loop takes you around the picturesque Lily Lake, with views of the mountains and valleys along the way. For something a bit more challenging, consider the Bear Lake Loop. This 4.5 mile loop takes you around the stunning Bear Lake, with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife along the way.
No matter what trail you choose, hiking in Estes Park is a great way to get the whole family outside and exploring the great outdoors.
3. Go Fishing
Estes Park is home to some of the best fishing in the state. From the sparkling rivers to the tranquil lakes, there’s something to suit every angler. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just getting started, Estes Park is a great place to cast a line.
For a more traditional fishing experience, consider the Big Thompson River. This river is full of trout, bass, and other game fish. Whether you’re fly fishing or spinning, the Big Thompson has something for everyone. For a more tranquil experience, consider Lake Estes. This lake is home to trout, catfish, and other game fish, and is the perfect spot for a leisurely day of fishing.
No matter where you decide to fish, Estes Park is a great place to cast your line and enjoy a day on the water.
4. Go Wildlife Watching
Estes Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, from bears to elk to eagles. With its abundance of open space and natural habitats, Estes Park is the perfect place to spot some of nature’s most majestic creatures.
For a chance to see some of the area’s larger animals, consider driving along the Bear Lake Road. This road is a popular spot for spotting bears and elk, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. For a chance to see some of the area’s smaller creatures, consider taking a walk through the meadows. Here you’ll find plenty of chipmunks, squirrels, and other small animals.
No matter where you go, wildlife watching in Estes Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
5. Visit a Museum
Estes Park is home to a number of interesting museums and historical sites. From the Estes Park Museum to the Historic Stanley Hotel, there’s something for everyone to explore.
The Estes Park Museum is a great place to learn about the area’s history and culture. Here you’ll find exhibits on the area’s pioneers, settlers, and Native Americans. For something a bit more interactive, consider the Historic Stanley Hotel. Here you’ll find interactive exhibits on the hotel’s history, and a chance to explore the building itself.
No matter what museum you choose, Estes Park has plenty of interesting sites for the whole family to explore.
6. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the great outdoors in Estes Park. With its wide open spaces and scenic trails, Estes Park is the perfect place to take a leisurely ride through the mountains.
For a more traditional experience, consider the Estes Park Stables. Here you’ll find a variety of horseback riding options, from short guided tours to all-day excursions. For something a bit more adventurous, consider the Rocky Mountain National Park. Here you’ll find plenty of trails to explore, as well as stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
No matter where you choose to go, horseback riding in Estes Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
7. Go Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a great way to challenge yourself and explore the great outdoors in Estes Park. With its towering peaks and rugged terrain, Estes Park is the perfect place to test your skills. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, Estes Park has something for everyone.
For a more traditional climbing experience, consider the Estes Park Rock Climbing Wall. Here you’ll find a variety of routes, from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone. For something a bit more adventurous, consider the Rocky Mountain National Park. Here you’ll find plenty of trails to explore, as well as stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
No matter where you choose to go, rock climbing in Estes Park is sure to be an exhilarating experience.
8. Go Biking
Estes Park is a great place to explore by bike. With its wide open spaces and scenic trails, Estes Park is the perfect place to take a leisurely ride through the mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, Estes Park has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a short and easy ride, consider the Lake Estes Trail. This 2.5 mile loop takes you around the picturesque Lake Estes, with plenty of scenery along the way. For something a bit more challenging, consider the Big Thompson River Trail. This 5 mile trail takes you along the winding Big Thompson River, with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife along the way.
No matter what trail you choose, biking in Estes Park is a great way to explore the great outdoors.
9. Go Kayaking/Canoeing
Kayaking and Canoeing are great ways to explore the great outdoors in Estes Park. With its sparkling rivers and tranquil lakes, Estes Park is the perfect place to take a leisurely paddle through the mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler, Estes Park has something for everyone.
For a more traditional paddling experience, consider the Big Thompson River. This river is full of rapids and calm stretches, so there’s something for everyone. For something a bit more tranquil, consider Lake Estes. This lake is perfect for a leisurely paddle, with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife along the way.
No matter where you decide to paddle, kayaking and canoeing in Estes Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
10. Go Camping
Camping is the perfect way to explore the great outdoors in Estes Park. With its wide open spaces and abundance of wildlife, Estes Park is the perfect place to pitch a tent and get away from it all. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a weeklong adventure, Estes Park has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a short and easy camping trip, consider the Estes Park Campground. Here you’ll find plenty of campsites, as well as easy access to trails and other attractions. For something a bit more challenging, consider the Rocky Mountain National Park. Here you’ll find plenty of backcountry campsites, as well as stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
No matter where you decide to camp, Estes Park is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Estes Park is a perfect destination for families looking to explore the great outdoors. With its breathtaking mountain views, easy access to trails, and abundance of wildlife, Estes Park offers a great variety of activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a day of hiking, fishing, or exploring wildlife, Estes Park has something for everyone. From taking a scenic drive to going horseback riding, Estes Park has something for everyone to enjoy. So get out and explore the great outdoors in Estes Park!