Estes Park

Estes Park is a town in Larimer County, Colorado, sitting at an elevation of 2,293 meters at the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Wooden buildings and lodges line the main street, surrounded by forested slopes and wide valleys with views toward the peaks of the Front Range.

The first permanent settlers arrived during the Colorado Gold Rush, followed by the establishment of a post office in 1874. The Stanley Hotel opened in 1909 and helped transform the community into a resort destination.

The settlement takes its name from Joel Estes, who established his ranch here in 1859. Residents today use the open meadows at the edge of town for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and fishing in nearby streams.

Hiking trails begin directly from the town center, and signs warn visitors about wildlife such as elk and black bears. Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop sharply even during summer evenings.

The Stanley Hotel inspired Stephen King to write his novel "The Shining" after he spent a night there. Guests today still report strange sounds and unexplained events in certain rooms of the building.

Location: Larimer County

Inception: 1859

Elevation above the sea: 2,293 m

Address: Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Website: http://estes.org

GPS coordinates: 40.37719,-105.52322

Latest update: December 12, 2025 00:55