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Estes Park Visitor Center: Gateway to Adventure

Your adventure begins here! Get free info, maps, & shuttle access for Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park.

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The Estes Park Visitor Center is your first stop for planning an unforgettable trip to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Located at the intersection of Highways 34 and 36, the center offers free information, maps, brochures, and knowledgeable staff to help you make the most of your visit.

A brief summary to Estes Park Visitor Center

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid traffic and secure parking at the visitor center or nearby.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle buses to explore Estes Park and access trailheads in Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • Check the visitor center's website or call ahead for information on events, road closures, and shuttle schedules.
  • Pick up a map of the Estes Park trail system and explore the Riverwalk or Lake Estes Trail, accessible directly from the visitor center.
  • Utilize the free Wi-Fi to plan your day, check weather conditions, or share your Estes Park experiences online.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Estes Park, the Visitor Center is easily accessible by foot. Follow the Riverwalk east along the Big Thompson River. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Estes Park offers a free shuttle service that operates during the summer season and for special events. Several shuttle routes connect various points in town with the Estes Park Visitor Center, which acts as the central transportation hub. Check the local transit schedule for route details and times. The shuttles are free to use.

  • Driving

    The Estes Park Visitor Center is located at 500 Big Thompson Avenue, near the intersection of Highways 34 and 36. From most locations in Estes Park, follow either Highway 34 or 36 towards the intersection. The visitor center will be on the north side of the road. Parking is available in the adjacent parking structure. During peak season, parking can be limited. Free parking is available at the Visitor Center garage located at 691 N. St. Vrain Ave. Additional free parking is available at the Events Complex Park-n-Ride, with shuttle service to the Visitor Center.

Unlock the Best of Estes Park Visitor Center

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Discover more about Estes Park Visitor Center

The Estes Park Visitor Center welcomes over 400,000 visitors each year, serving as the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning landscapes and abundant activities in the Estes Park area. Here, you can gather information on everything from lodging and dining to outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing. Friendly staff and volunteer ambassadors are on hand to answer questions, provide tips, and share their love for this mountain village. The visitor center offers a wealth of resources, including maps, brochures, guest computers with online access, and free wireless internet. You can browse books about Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, relax by the fireplace, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. Clean restrooms and drinking fountains are also available. The Estes Park Visitor Center is more than just an information hub; it's also a transportation hub. During the peak summer season and for special events, the center serves as the central connection point for the town's free shuttle buses and the Rocky Mountain National Park Hiker Shuttle. This makes it easy to get around Estes Park and access popular destinations within the national park without the hassle of driving and parking. Estes Park has a rich history, with archaeological records showing human presence in the area for at least 12,000 years. Originally home to Ute and Arapaho tribes, the area attracted explorers and settlers in the 1800s. Today, Estes Park is a renowned resort destination, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and hometown hospitality.

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