Peak fall color. Elk bugles. Fresh cider. See what’s happening this week before the snow sneaks in. Festival fun, elk bugles, and crisp mountain evenings—here’s your guide to making the most of early October in Estes
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS WEEK!
Post-Elk Fest Wrap-Up: The Herds Are Still Here!
Didn’t Make It to Elk Fest? No Worries—Here is the 2025 Elk Fest Re-Cap
Elk Fest 2025 brought Estes Park to life once again this past weekend, blending the raw beauty of the rutting season with the charm of our mountain town traditions. Thousands of visitors gathered to witness the unforgettable sights and sounds of bull elk bugling across the meadows of Rocky Mountain National Park—a reminder of nature’s power and grace that keeps people returning year after year.
🎶 Festival Highlights
From live music and Native American storytelling to bugling contests and the annual Mountain Man Rendezvous, the atmosphere was filled with history, culture, and celebration. Local food vendors, craft artisans, and family-friendly activities created a festive spirit that welcomed both first-time visitors and longtime residents.
🌲 Wild Encounters
Of course, the elk were the true stars of the weekend. Herds gathered in the fields at dawn and dusk, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. Rangers and volunteers worked tirelessly to keep visitors at safe viewing distances, reminding us of the importance of respecting these animals during such an active season.
🏔️ Community Spirit
Elk Fest wasn’t just about wildlife—it was about community. Local shops and restaurants joined in the celebration, offering seasonal specials and warm welcomes to travelers. The crisp autumn air, golden aspens, and the energy of the rut made Estes Park the perfect place to celebrate fall.
👉 If you missed Elk Fest this year, mark your calendars for next fall—it’s an Estes Park tradition you’ll want to experience at least once. Until then, keep your eyes open on your next visit. The elk rut continues into October, and there are still plenty of opportunities to safely watch the drama of the season unfold.
😂 Trail-Notes Riddle
Q: The more of me you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?
(scroll to the bottom for the answer 👇)
Cider, Donuts & Pie Season: Where to Get Fresh Cider, Pumpkin Donuts & Mountain Pies This Week
Craving something warm, sweet, and seasonal? You’re in luck—Estes Park knows how to do fall flavors right.
🥧 You Need Pie – Slice into their award-winning pumpkin, apple-blend, or triple-berry pies, baked fresh daily.
🍩 Donut Haus – Grab a warm maple-glazed or cinnamon-sugar donut (and get there early—they sell out fast).
🍒 Colorado Cherry Company (in the Stanley Hotel) – Cozy up with cherry or apple pie and a hot cider while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
🌀 Cinnamon’s Bakery – The name says it all. Their gooey cinnamon rolls and crumbly muffins are fall morning essentials.
Estes is serving up fall one bite at a time—don’t leave town without tasting the season.
Last Chance Hikes Before the Snow: Top 3 Scenic Trails to Hike This Week—Before Winter Moves In
Fall is fading fast, and winter weather is creeping closer. These three trails offer the best combo of fall color, wildlife views, and easy access. Hit them now while they’re still dry!
🥾 Chapin Creek Trailhead – A hidden gem with golden aspens, alpine meadows, and views that feel untouched.
🥾 Tundra Communities Trailhead – Up above the treeline, this short but steep hike leads to sweeping overlooks and tundra textures that turn golden in the fall light.
🥾 Alpine Ridge Trailhead – Also called “Huffers Hill” for a reason—quick, steep, and totally worth the climb for its panoramic views of the Rockies.
🍂 Pro Tip: Mornings offer better trail conditions and fewer crowds. Bring layers—temperatures drop fast at elevation.
Wellness Escape of the Week: Relax the Estes Park Way 🌄
Advertiser Tie-in: Estes Park Massage
Advertiser Tie-in: Estes Park Massage
Between all the hikes, festivals, and wildlife watching, don’t forget—you’re allowed to rest. Actually, you should.
Take a breather at Estes Park Massage, where the mountain calm continues indoors. Whether it’s deep tissue, aromatherapy, or a rejuvenating sports massage, you’ll walk out feeling taller, lighter, and ready for your next adventure.
🧘 This isn't luxury. It's balanced. You’ve earned it—let someone else carry the weight for a bit.
📸 Featured Photo of the Week
Still Waters, Golden Reflections – Captured at Sprague Lake
Captured by: Pat Cuejilo
This week’s featured photo comes to us from the shores of Sprague Lake, where golden aspens meet glassy water and the mountains reflect in near-perfect silence. A peaceful reminder of why fall in Estes Park is something you feel in your bones.
Location: Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Conditions: Peak fall color, calm skies, and sunrise glow
Photographer: Pat Cuejilo
Thank you for sharing this serene moment with the Trail Notes community!
📸 Community Call-Out: Share Your Fall Photos!
Do you have an amazing shot of fall in Estes Park?
🍁 A golden aspen trail?
🦌 A perfectly timed elk photo?
🎃 A festival moment you captured?
Send it our way! We’ll pick one reader-submitted photo to feature in next week’s Trail Notes Newsletter, along with your name and photo credit.
📧 Submit your photo using this link: Estes Park Resort Guide – Photo & Video Submission Form
📅 Deadline: Friday, October 9 at 5 PM MT
📧 Email us: [email protected]
📱 Message us on Facebook: facebook.com/EstesParkResortGuide
Autumn in Estes Park isn’t just a season—it’s a sensation. It’s the warmth of cider in your hands and the chill of morning mist on your face. It’s the echo of elk bugles through the valley, and the crunch of golden leaves beneath your boots.
With Elk Fest wrapping up and October just beginning, the town is shifting into its most magical rhythm—one filled with haunted tales, flickering jack-o-lanterns, cider donuts, and glowing trails that feel made for wandering.
Take your time this week. Slow down. Sip the cider. Watch the elk. Feel the mountain wind remind you where you are and why you came.
Because the beauty of fall in Estes Park is that it asks for nothing—except that you notice it.
This week, the mountains aren’t just calling—they’re clinking glasses, echoing with elk bugles, and wrapping us in the golden quiet only fall can bring.
Riddle Answer:
Footsteps 👣