Lake Estes Trail, Estes Park Travel Guide
Enjoy a scenic walk, bike ride, or jog around Lake Estes with stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife in beautiful Estes Park, Colorado.
The Lake Estes Trail is a paved 3.75-mile loop encircling Lake Estes, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities. Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, this accessible trail provides a serene escape with connections to Estes Park's vibrant downtown.
A brief summary to Lake Estes Trail
- Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
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Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lake Estes Trail.
- Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the high altitude sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially elk, and observe them from a safe distance.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Take precautions if you're not used to the altitude; pace yourself, take smaller steps, and breathe deeply.
- Bring water, especially if you plan to walk the entire loop, as the altitude can be dehydrating.
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Getting There
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Walking
From the Estes Park Visitor Center (500 Big Thompson Ave), head east towards the lake. The trail is easily accessible from the parking area. Follow the paved path along the lake's edge. The loop can be started from various points, including the Visitor Center, Fisherman's Nook, and the Lake Estes Marina.
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Public Transport
Estes Park has a free shuttle service that operates during the summer months. Check the Estes Park Free Shuttle schedule for routes and stops near the Lake Estes Trail. Several stops are located near the Visitor Center and along Big Thompson Avenue, providing easy access to the trail.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Estes Park Visitor Center (500 Big Thompson Ave). Additional parking can be found at the Lake Estes Marina, Fisherman's Nook, Cherokee Draw, and Wapiti Meadows. Parking at the Lake Estes Marina, Wapiti Meadows and Cherokee Draw requires a permit. One-day vehicle permit costs $5. Annual permits are also available.
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