Estes Park: The Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park

The most scenic route to Estes Park from Denver is the the Peak to Peak Highway. Estes Park is northwest of Denver and is the eastern entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

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Downtown Estes Park

Shop, eat and take a stroll in downtown Estes Park. They have amazing taffy. Grab a cup of coffee and follow the walk along the Big Thompson River.

View the Elk in Estes Park Colorado

During the last week in September and first weeks in October are the best time for Elk watching. As a matter of fact you should see them before you even hit the downtown area.

We were lucky enough to see the two males butting heads. Beautiful with the fall leaves and lake in the background and allows for good photo opportunities You are able to take photos without cars or other people in the background. They are wild animals, so don’t get too close, use a telephoto camera lens instead.

While October may be the best time to see the elk, they can be seen year round.