Best Things to Do in Estes Park with Kids
Estes Park is one of Colorado’s most family-friendly mountain destinations and is widely known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Families visit from around the world to experience wildlife viewing, scenic mountain landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a charming downtown filled with shops and restaurants.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending a full vacation in the Colorado Rockies, there are plenty of things to do in Estes Park with kids that create unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Below are some of the best family-friendly activities in Estes Park.
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
One of the top activities for families visiting Estes Park is exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. The park offers incredible opportunities for kids to experience nature while seeing wildlife and spectacular mountain scenery.
Many families enjoy easy hikes around destinations such as:
- Bear Lake
- Sprague Lake
- Alberta Falls
These shorter trails allow kids to enjoy the outdoors without needing extensive hiking experience.
Wildlife viewing is another highlight. Elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep are frequently spotted throughout the park, making the experience exciting for children and adults alike. Check out the timed entry process for Rocky Mountain National Park.
Visit the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is one of the most popular attractions for families visiting the area. The tram carries visitors to the top of Prospect Mountain, where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys await.
Kids often enjoy feeding the friendly chipmunks that live near the summit while parents take in the incredible scenery.
Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
The Mustang Mountain Coaster is another fun attraction for families looking for an exciting activity in Estes Park. This alpine-style coaster runs through the forest and allows riders to control their speed as they glide down the mountain track.
It’s a quick but thrilling ride that many kids and teenagers love.
Ride Go Carts at Ride-A-Kart
Estes Park Ride-A-Kart is a must for families. They have bumper boats, mini golf, arcade games, and go carts.
Explore Downtown Estes Park
Downtown Estes Park is a great place for families to spend an afternoon. The downtown riverwalk follows the Big Thompson River and offers beautiful scenery along with plenty of shops and restaurants.
Families can enjoy:
- ice cream shops
- toy stores
- souvenir shops
- local restaurants
Walking along the river while enjoying the mountain atmosphere is a relaxing way to spend time together after exploring the park.
Take a Scenic Drive Around Lake Estes
Driving around Lake Estes is another great activity for families. The scenic road offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to spot wildlife.
There are also walking and biking paths around the lake, making it a great spot for a family stroll or picnic. Backbone Adventures offers ebike rentals as well as youth ebikes, tag along bikes, and trailers for toddlers so the whole family can enjoy it.
Experience Outdoor Adventures in Estes Park
Families with older kids and teenagers often look for more exciting outdoor activities during their visit. Estes Park offers a variety of adventures including hiking, horseback riding, and off-road exploration in the surrounding mountains.
One popular activity for adventurous families is exploring mountain terrain on an ATV. These experiences allow visitors to travel through forest roads and scenic mountain landscapes while enjoying an exciting outdoor adventure.
Many families with older kids choose ATV adventures because they offer a fun and memorable way to explore the Colorado Rockies beyond traditional sightseeing.
Wildlife Viewing in Estes Park
Wildlife viewing is one of the most exciting experiences for children visiting Estes Park. Elk are commonly seen throughout town and in nearby meadows, especially during the fall elk rut when bull elk bugle across the valley.
Families often spot wildlife while driving scenic roads or exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.
Seeing animals in their natural habitat is often one of the most memorable parts of visiting the Colorado Rockies. Check out this article with an interactive wildlife map
Planning Your Family Trip to Estes Park
Many families begin planning their trip by researching things to do in Estes Park, building an Estes Park itinerary, and deciding on the best time to visit Estes Park.
Because Estes Park sits at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, it offers the perfect base for families looking to combine outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and relaxing mountain-town experiences. Learn more things to do in Estes Park with our ultimate guide
With so many family-friendly activities available, Estes Park remains one of the best destinations in Colorado for a memorable family vacation.
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