Morning Bliss in Estes Park

As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting a golden hue over the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, there’s no better time to embark on a journey through nature’s masterpiece. The morning of May 17th promises a partly cloudy sky with temperatures feeling like a crisp 50.5°F, perfect for an early start. Begin your adventure with the Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from Denver, starting at 9:30 AM. This tour offers a breathtaking view of the Flatirons and the charming town of Boulder, setting the stage for a day filled with awe and wonder.

The tour takes you through the quaint town of Lyons, known as the “Double Gateway to the Rockies,” before entering the Rocky Mountain National Park. Here, the towering Longs Peak stands as a sentinel, watching over the 110 peaks that reach up to 11,000 feet. As you traverse the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, the vistas unfold like a painting, each turn revealing a new masterpiece. The tour concludes with a visit to the iconic Stanley Hotel, a place steeped in history and intrigue.

“The views are beautiful to see and the guide was giving us a lot of information about Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. A great experience!” - Reviewed on 2025-05-04

Afternoon Adventures and Reflections

As the day progresses, the clouds gather, hinting at the spring showers to come. The afternoon is a perfect time to explore the Retractable Glass Top Tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park, available from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This tour offers a unique perspective, with a retractable glass top that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty.

The journey takes you above the treeline, where the air is crisp and the views are unparalleled. Short hikes lead you to witness the rapid snowmelt, cascading waterfalls, and majestic glaciers. The expert guide shares fascinating insights into the park’s history and wildlife, enriching your experience with stories of the past. As you traverse the Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road, the landscape transforms, each moment a reminder of nature’s ever-changing beauty.

“This was the best money we ever spent. The tour was amazing and our driver did an outstanding job narrating as we drove. Several stops for photo opportunities along the way.” - Reviewed on 2024-12-01

Evening Serenity and Small-Town Charm

As the sun sets at 8:13 PM on May 17th, the town of Estes Park comes alive with a different kind of magic. The evening is a time to reflect on the day’s adventures, perhaps with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of this small town. The air is filled with the scent of pine and the promise of rain, a gentle reminder of the spring showers that define this season.

Estes Park, with its rich history and Americana nostalgia, offers a glimpse into a simpler time. The local shops and eateries invite you to linger, to savor the flavors and stories that make this town unique. As you wander, the memories of the day’s journey linger, each moment a thread in the tapestry of your adventure.

The following day, May 18th, begins with early morning rain, transitioning to partly cloudy skies. It’s a day to embrace the changing weather, to dress in layers and carry an umbrella, ready for whatever the day may bring. The Rocky Mountain National Park Tour and Retractable Glass Top Tour are both available, offering another opportunity to explore the wonders of the Rockies.

In Estes Park, the journey is as much about the destination as it is about the road traveled. Each turn, each vista, is a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits those who venture into the heart of the Rockies.