Sunny

Summer Days

A Guide to the Warm Season in Estes Park

A Vibrant, Sun-Drenched
Mountain Sanctuary

When the snow finally melts, Estes Park completely transforms. The valleys turn green, the wildflowers pop, and Rocky Mountain National Park opens up for endless exploring. Summer here is all about getting outside, whether that means hiking to a panoramic summit or just relaxing by the river. Stonebrook is the perfect home base—spend your days adventuring in the sun, then come back to cool off and unwind right by the water. We even have our own summer bar open for guests, private hiking trails right on the property, and over 4,000 feet of private riverfront perfect for fishing.

Scenic trail in Rocky Mountain National Park
Essential Estes

Hiking & Rocky Mountain National Park

No summer getaway is complete without hitting the trails. Rocky Mountain National Park features countless spectacular routes for every skill level, including the iconic Bear Lake Trailhead—your starting point for breathtaking hikes to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake. Just remember, the park uses a timed entry reservation system during the summer, so you'll want to book your entry window well in advance!

Want to skip the park lines altogether? You don't even have to leave Stonebrook. We have our own private hiking trails right on the property that connect directly to Old Man Mountain and Deer Mountain, letting you explore the national park right from your front door.

An off-road vehicle navigating rugged mountain terrain in the summer
Off the Beaten Path

Off-Roading & E-Bikes

If you want to dodge the summer crowds, taking an off-road trip is easily one of the best ways to see the Rockies. You'll get to bump along high-altitude dirt roads and check out backcountry spots that most visitors never even know exist. We partner with Backbone Adventures, and they are the go-to spot in town for renting ATVs and side-by-sides to explore the trails.

If you're more into pedaling, grabbing an e-bike to cruise downtown or around the scenic path at Lake Estes is an absolute blast. You don't even have to leave the resort to get started—our front office rents out e-bikes directly to our guests! And if you'd prefer to sit back and let someone else do the driving, booking a guided trip with local outfitters like Green Jeep Tours is another fantastic option.

Driving along Trail Ridge Road with sweeping mountain views
Scenic Drives

Trail Ridge Road

You can't visit Estes Park in the summer without taking a drive up Trail Ridge Road. As the highest continuous paved highway in America, it takes you well above treeline into the alpine tundra, topping out at over 12,000 feet.

The views along the way are absolutely breathtaking, with pull-offs where you can often spot elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep. Make sure to drive all the way up to the Alpine Visitor Center for panoramic views of the Rockies that you won't find anywhere else.

A group enjoying a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on a rushing river
Cool Off

Whitewater Rafting

When the afternoon sun gets hot, nothing beats cooling off on a whitewater rafting trip. Thanks to the spring snowmelt, the rivers around here are rushing perfectly by early summer, carving right through some gorgeous canyons.

You don't need any experience, either. Outfitters like Rapid Transit Rafting and Mountain Whitewater offer everything from mellow family floats to punchy, splash-heavy rapids. Just show up ready to paddle and they'll take care of the rest.

A fly fisherman casting a line into a serene, crystal-clear mountain stream
Classic Mountain Fun

Fly Fishing & Horseback Riding

There’s just something incredibly peaceful about wading into a cold mountain stream to cast a line. The Big Thompson and Fall River offer some fantastic trout fishing literally right in our backyard. If you're new to the sport or just want someone to show you the local honey holes, Kirks Flyshop and Estes Angler put together great guided trips.

Would rather explore the trails without all the hiking? Booking a horseback ride with National Park Gateway Stables is a classic Estes Park tradition that lets you soak in the views at a slow, peaceful pace.

Tennis and pickleball courts on a sunny day
Stay Active

Pickleball & The Rec Center

If you're looking to keep up your morning routine or just want to jump into a friendly game of pickleball, the Estes Park Rec Center is fantastic. It's a gorgeous facility featuring pristine tennis and pickleball courts where locals and visitors alike gather for some friendly, sun-drenched competition.

It’s also a perfect backup plan for those rare rainy summer afternoons. With indoor pools, a lazy river, and a full fitness center, it’s a great spot to take the kids or just get a solid workout in before heading back to the resort for happy hour at our summer bar.

Around Town

The Tramway, Golf & Mountain Coaster

A sweeping panoramic view of a lush, green mountain valley in the summer

Once you've had your fill of hiking, downtown Estes Park has plenty of laid-back ways to spend the afternoon. Hop on the historic Estes Park Aerial Tramway for some sweeping views from the top of Prospect Mountain without breaking a sweat.

If you packed your clubs, the Estes Park Golf Course is a stunning 18-hole course totally surrounded by peaks (and usually a herd or two of elk). Looking for something a little faster? Check out the Estes Park Mountain Coaster. As a nice little perk for staying with us at Stonebrook, we actually provide complimentary VIP passes to the coaster for our guests (just keep in mind it's based on daily availability).

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