Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead: A Tranquil Escape in Rocky Mountain National Park
Discover easy hiking, stunning views, and abundant wildlife at Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park.
Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado, offers a serene escape with easy trails, stunning views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. It's a perfect spot for families and those seeking a less crowded experience.
A brief summary to Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead
- Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing, especially for spotting elk and birds.
- Check the park's website for seasonal closures of Upper Beaver Meadows Road, typically from mid-October to mid-May.
- Be aware of potential elk rut closures in September and October, which restrict access to the meadows during certain hours.
- Wear appropriate footwear, as parts of the trail can be muddy or snowy, especially in spring and early summer.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive west on Highway 36 towards Rocky Mountain National Park. After entering the park (entrance fee required), continue for approximately 0.7 miles to the turnoff for Upper Beaver Meadows on the left. Follow Upper Beaver Meadows Road, a rough paved road, for about 1.4 miles to the trailhead at the end of the road. Park in the designated parking area. Park entrance fees are $30 for a one-day vehicle pass or $35 for a seven-day pass.
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Walking
From the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, walk west along Highway 36 for approximately 2 miles until you reach Beaver Meadows Road on the west side of the highway. Turn onto Beaver Meadows Road and continue for 1.5 miles to the parking area. Be cautious of traffic along Highway 36. There are no additional costs for this option beyond the park entrance fee (if entering from outside the park).
Discover more about Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aspen Winds on Fall River
4.8 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
5.8 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Tour Estes Park
6.9 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Red Rose Rock Shop
7.2 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Performance Park
7.3 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
7.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Estes Park Brewery
7.5 km
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Penelope's Old Time Burgers
7.5 km
Enjoy mouthwatering burgers and a nostalgic atmosphere at Penelope's Old Time Burgers in Estes Park, the perfect stop for travelers seeking a hearty meal.
Fun City
7.6 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
The Taffy Shop
7.6 km
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Estes Park Distilling Co.
7.6 km
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THE BARREL
7.7 km
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Mountain Blown Glass, Inc
7.7 km
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Snowy Peaks Winery
7.7 km
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Historic Park Theatre
7.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Deer Mountain Trailhead
1.6 km
Hike Deer Mountain for panoramic views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide in Rocky Mountain National Park. A moderate trek with rewarding vistas.
Little Horseshoe Park
2.2 km
Discover a serene glacial valley in Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying panoramic mountain vistas.
Many Parks Curve Overlook
2.3 km
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Fern Lake Trailhead
2.5 km
Hike to a serene alpine lake through diverse landscapes in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
Moraine Park
2.6 km
Discover Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park: A glacier-carved valley offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning mountain views year-round.
Deer Mountain
2.6 km
Hike Deer Mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park for panoramic views of Estes Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide. A rewarding summit experience!
Moraine Park Amphitheater
2.9 km
Discover Moraine Park Amphitheater, a stunning natural venue in Estes Park, perfect for performances and connecting with nature's beauty.
Moraine Park Discovery Center
3.0 km
Explore the glacial history and natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park at the Moraine Park Discovery Center.
Horseshoe Park
3.3 km
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Hollowell Park
3.5 km
Find serenity at Hollowell Park in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning views, picnic spots, and easy hiking trails.
Eagle Cliff Mountain
3.6 km
Hike Eagle Cliff Mountain for breathtaking views of Estes Park and the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park.
Historic Fall River Hydroplant
3.8 km
Explore Estes Park's past at the Historic Fall River Hydroplant, where innovation powered a community and shaped its future.
Lawn Lake Trailhead
4.0 km
Hike to Lawn Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning views, challenging trails, and a glimpse into the area's natural history.
Fall River Visitor Center
4.0 km
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National Park Gateway Stables
4.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park with unforgettable horseback riding adventures at National Park Gateway Stables.
Essential places to dine
Trailhead Restaurant
3.9 km
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The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
5.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Bird & Jim
5.9 km
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
6.2 km
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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
6.4 km
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Coffee on the Rocks
7.2 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
7.3 km
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Big Horn Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
7.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
7.6 km
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
7.6 km
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
7.6 km
Experience authentic pizza crafted with love at Bob & Tony's Pizza in Estes Park – your perfect dining stop amidst Colorado's natural beauty.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
7.6 km
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The Sandwich Mafia
7.6 km
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Himalayan Curry & Kebob
7.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Mountain Gateway
4.0 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
6.1 km
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The Mad Moose
6.1 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
6.5 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
7.1 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
7.2 km
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Omnibus
7.5 km
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Country West City East Gifts
7.5 km
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
7.5 km
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Over The Edge
7.5 km
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Favorite Things
7.5 km
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The Whispering Wood
7.5 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Mt Everest Gift House
7.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
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Rock Cut Brewing Company
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Wheel Bar
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
8.1 km
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217 Wine Bar
8.1 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
8.9 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
9.2 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
9.3 km
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Pits & Stems
46.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Outback Saloon
48.4 km
Experience the Wild West at Outback Saloon in Boulder, where hearty grill dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
License No. 1
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Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Corner Bar
48.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
Press Play Bar LP
48.5 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
West End Tavern
48.5 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.