The Colorado locals have always said “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” That could not have been more true for this trip in April. Packing for all 4 seasons for a trip was a challenge in and of itself, but well worth the hassle. Landing in Denver where it was 70’s and sunny was drastically different from the 20’s and wind we experienced during our park days.
Flying into Denver International Airport is the easiest and most accessible way to start your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). It also allows you to explore the city of Denver before or after your trip up north. From Denver to Estes Park takes just under 1.5 hours and is a scenic route, mostly by highway, through the wonderful mountains. I suggest stopping in Boulder along the way to stretch your legs and explore a cool city.
Boulder is a growing city, albeit on the slower and smaller side, that provides amazing views of the mountains. The views are so amazing that city ordinance restricts the height of new builds (sometimes to less than 50 feet) to protect this. Take a stroll down Pearl Street and the cobblestone walkway of Boulder. You’ll find shops galore (Cotopaxi, Allbirds, Liberty Puzzles) to name a few of my favorites. Liberty Puzzles are made right in Boulder and their puzzles, along with the individual pieces, are very unique. Stop in and try a few of the trial puzzles they have in the entrance. For breakfast or brunch, head on over to Snooze A.M. Eatery. We were able to sit outside and soak in the nice Colorado sun while enjoying a hearty and flavorful meal. Our waiter recommended the Barbacoa Chile Verde Eggs Benedict and Breakfast Pot Pie. He definitely did not steer us wrong with those recs and I’d go back in a heartbeat!
Leaving Boulder and heading further Northwest we continued our trip to our AirBnb in Estes Park. Prior to checking into our AirBnb we stopped at the famous Stanley Hotel. People say this is the hotel providing Stephen King’s inspiration for the Overlook Hotel in The Shining. Take a walk inside to see the historical character and architecture including old lights, ceiling fans, the main fireplace, and the golden elevator. They have also recreated a small hedge maze outside (much smaller than the one in The Shining) which is still a fun time for all.
A quick pit stop at Estes Park Brewery had us sampling some local beers. Start downstairs where you’re allowed 4 free beer tastings before heading upstairs for additional bites and brews. The Longs Peak Raspberry Wheat and Bear Lake Blueberry Wheat were perfect for the sunny weather outside. Ask the bartender for his recommendation of mixing the Raspberry and Blueberry beer, 50/50 in one glass. You won’t be disappointed with this unique mix of flavors. Unique Shining inspired brews such as Redrum Ale and The Shining Pale Ale are also some fun beers to sample.
After checking into our AirBnb we grabbed some groceries from a nearby Safeway. Staying in to cook breakfast and maybe even some later dinners at your lodging is a great way to make this trip more budget friendly. The next stop was heading over to Estes Park Mountain Shop. I have nothing but positive things to say about this place. Every single employee was knowledgeable, helpful, and genuinely seemed to enjoy everything about their job. One was even from near my home town in Central NY! After their recommendation to rent microspikes and hold off on snowshoes, they provided additional general hiking and trail recs. The microspikes for example were perfect and only $10 per person for a 24 hr period. They fit right over your boots and are rather easy to use.
An early wakeup the next morning just before 5am allowed us to see the gorgeous sunrise. Luckily, our place was only a ~10 minute drive to the entrance of RMNP. Of note, Trail Ridge Road is closed this time of year due to snow and inclement weather (closed from Many Parks Curve to Colorado River Trailhead). The park also requires a timed permit entry pass from May 26 to October 22, which must be completed ahead of time (found HERE).
Pull into one of the side parking lots adjacent to Many Parks Curve, just before the Trail Ridge Road closure. Walk down the side of the road for unreal views including a stunning sunrise, abundant wildlife, and the many mountain snow caps still prevalent in April. After you witness the Colorado views of the sun and mountains, head over to the Bear Lake Trailhead Parking Lot. The ranger station will be closed for the season, but there are bathrooms prior to the start of your hike. Head to the left at the trailhead to knock out such as Nymph Lake (0.5 miles), Dream Lake (0.8 miles), and Emerald Lake (1.5 miles). I highly recommend using AllTrails and downloading the maps ahead of time as visibility and trail markers are limited this time of year. Those looking for additional hiking can access the Gem Lake trail (3.4 miles roundtrip) via the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead. Remember to be careful, especially around the lakes, as its difficult to tell what has remained frozen over and what is starting to melt.
I don’t feel the microspikes were a necessity for these hikes; however, provided a nice security blanket and added stability. If you’ve never used them, you’ll instantly notice your foot really grabbing a hold of the terrain and gripping the snow/ice. Remember to dress in layers, as the weather started in the 20’s yet was ~45 by late morning. Bring lots of water and some snacks for fuel. Sunscreen and sunglasses are often forgotten and severely underrated, especially when the Colorado sun begins to reflect off the snowy trails.
After hiking and experiencing some of these surreal views, treat yourself to a cold brew at Rock Cut Brewing Company, Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co, or Avant Garde Aleworks. Rock Cut Brewing had my favorite brews, by far, and had really cool vibes inside including multiple board games and a “beer it forward” wall, where you’re able to purchase a beer for someone else. Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. was built within an old gas station with amazing mountain views from the front/side patio. Avant Garde Aleworks had a unique menu of drinks, including a Frosè, a slushee of their house-made hard seltzer.
My favorite spot for daily morning coffee was Coffee on the Rocks. It served a rather large menu of organic free trade coffee and lattes as well as spiked/boozy coffee drinks. Libation in hand, head out back to grab a seat in a comfy Adirondack chair as you look out across the picturesque duck pond and take in the serene Colorado wilderness!
Prior to leaving Denver and flying home, if time allows, I highly suggest checking out the REI downtown Denver store as well as the Denver Downtown Aquarium. The REI Denver Flagship Store is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast as it sits within the restored 1901 Denver Tramway building and boasts several floors of apparel and other outdoor goods. Free parking (up to 90 minutes) is located in a lot across the street. The Denver Aquarium was a perfect end to this trip before having a red-eye flight back home that night.
If further time allows, or you visit Colorado more in the Summer/early Fall, I suggest attempting one of Colorado’s 14ers. These are considered high peaks, with each mountain exceeding 14,000 feet of elevation. This would take a little more planning; however, the views will leave you speechless. My favorites thus far have been Mt. Bierstadt and Mt. Sherman. Look for posts on that in the future. Happy Adventuring!
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