Estes Park, Colorado.
Many of my favorite towns are the gateway communities into National Parks – heck I live in one. Estes Park, Colorado is no exception, in fact, I think it might be the nicest community we have ever visited!
Estes Park, Colorado.
Estes Park has a big geographic advantage over many communities being located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, but there is much more to it. The main street through downtown (Elkhorn Avenue) is lined with trees and flowers, along with numerous park benches and drinking fountains. There isn’t any on street parking available on Elkhorn Ave, but there are plenty of public parking lots and an efficient shuttle service – keeping cars off the Main Street through downtown greatly improves the aesthetics, and it sure makes it easier to photograph!
Lots of cute little businesses front Elkhorn Ave., and the nearby Riverwalk path. The Riverwalk follows a scenic creek that meanders through town roughly parallel to Elkhorn Ave., and includes a nice walking path and numerous little parks and lots of little stores and restaurants. And to top it off, there is a large elk population right in town, including some large bulls!
A park along the riverwalk, Estes Park, Colorado.
{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
Ron, I am thrilled to see these photos and read your impressions of Estes Park. On our first trip to the US (from Australia) in 1998 we were hosted by a lovely couple at Estes Park for three wonderful days. In early June the weather was fine, but on our 4th and last day there was a foot of snow overnight. It was magic and the lovely town in the snow and the music of the swiftly running creek is something I will never forget. Estes Park has a special place in my memory and heart.
Hi Ron,
What fabulous photos of RMNP and our little town! We’re excited to hear that you like Estes Park so much. It is a peaceful place surrounded by great beauty. You and Janine know you have a place to stay next time you visit. Enjoy your trip!
Mary C.
Hi Mary, we really are enjoying Estes Park and RMNP, I can see why you like it so much here. Thanks again for your generous offer and hospitality! I’m sure we will be back and will likely take you up on it next time!
Hi Noella, I can see why this place has a special place in your heart! A foot of snow, that must have been a fun summer surprise! Thanks.
R&J,
Just catching up. As always you guys are out living the dream. If you are still in Estes and hanging around, stop into Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and tell Jo hello. She’s an old friend. Have fun!!
T
Wow, that is a beautiful little town! What a gem. Your photos have done it justice. Mom
Hey Troy – great to hear from you – we will try to say hi to Jo for you. Hope you are having a great fall!
Thanks Mom, I think you guys would like this area.
Hey Ron, is it my imagination or did you widen the format of your blog? The photos look awesome at this size.
I want to live there! What a nice looking place.
Very nice photos! You’ve captured Estes Park very well.
Thanks Everyone!
Richard, I did widen the blog when I changed to this theme: http://www.my-photo-blog.com/an-easy-to-use-wordpress-theme
I like the larger images.
Thanks for the photos – will be in Estes Park for a few days next month after business in Denver – really looking forward to my first visit!
Aren’t we lucky to live here . . . well, maybe the early arrival of winter is a bit much today, but the views are great any time of the year!
I agree!