Chasing Color: Top 3 Leaf-Peeping Trails You Can’t Miss
Fall foliage is exploding across Rocky Mountain National Park, and this is your last full week before the wind and weather shift. According to the latest Colorado Fall Color Report, prime color around Estes Park, Bear Lake Road, and the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is expected between September 20–30.
Top Trails to Try:
Glacier Gorge Trail – Dramatic color, waterfalls, and stunning alpine backdrops.
Gem Lake Trail – Moderate hike, fewer crowds, great golden aspen views.
Bierstadt Lake Loop – Family-friendly loop through meadows and aspens, with lake views at the top.
👉 Pro Tip: Arrive early—parking lots are filling up by 7:30 AM on weekends.
The Elk Are Back—Here’s Where (and How) to Watch Safely
It’s rut season—aka elk mating season—and if you’ve been hearing strange bugling calls echoing across Estes, that’s why. Elk are most active around dawn and dusk, especially near:
Moraine Park
Horseshoe Park
Golf Course at Estes Park
The National Park Service warns that bull elk can be aggressive this time of year. Stay at least 75 yards away and use zoom lenses or binoculars for photos. And please—no calling or approaching the animals.
Safety Tip: Bring earplugs if you’re staying near downtown. The bugling lasts all night.
Cozy Fall Flavors: 5 Must-Try Menus This Week
Restaurants around Estes are leaning into the comfort season—and the menus prove it.
Whether you’re craving bison chili, butternut squash ravioli, or cinnamon-spiced cocktails, here are five stops worth your appetite:
Bird & Jim – Roasted root veggie flatbread & elk Bolognese.
The Dunraven – Cozy views and pumpkin ravioli.
SEASONED – An American Bistro – Warm apple salad and braised short ribs.
You Need Pie! – Fall pies, including apple crumb and pecan.
Avant Garde Aleworks – Limited-run cider-infused IPA + fall stout.
No reservations? Most places now offer online waitlists via their websites or apps like OpenTable.
Rustic Meets Chic: Fall Decor Finds in Downtown Estes
The boutiques of downtown Estes are dressed for fall—and ready for you to bring that cozy mountain style home. Think hand-poured candles, aspen wood signs, flannel throws, and nature-inspired decor.
Shops to Explore:
Hyk Outdoors – Nature-themed gifts and flannel apparel
Mountain Blown Glass – Handcrafted seasonal glassware
Trendz at the Park – Cabin-chic home goods and fall mugs
Simply Christmas – Yes, it's open year-round (and the fall section is incredible)
No big-box stores here—just real locals crafting the Estes experience by hand.
Fall Escape Specials: Last-Minute Lodging Deals Before the Snow Hits
Looking for a fall escape? October will bring colder temps and fewer openings, so now’s the time to book your September-to-October transition trip. While some properties are full for weekends, midweek stays are still wide open.
Lodging Options With Fall Views:
Della Terra Mountain Chateau – Luxury romantic rooms w/ private hot tubs
The Ridgeline Hotel – Family-friendly with fire pits and indoor pool
Estes Park Condos – On Fall River, surrounded by golden aspens
YMCA of the Rockies – Affordable cabins with elk practically on your doorstep
Pro Tip: Many places allow flexible cancellations with 48-hour notice—check policies before you book.
📣 Want Your Business Featured in Next Week’s Issue?
Looking for: Lodging partners, local events, shops, art galleries, and fall experiences.
📧 Email us at: [email protected]
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Fall doesn’t last long in Estes—blink and the color is gone.
So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and take it in before the snow starts whispering across the peaks.
Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. – Albert Camus