Begin your honeymoon with a full day of hiking and exploring in Rocky Mountain National Park. Make sure to stop and take pictures of the stunning views at Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the park. You can also visit popular sites such as Bear Lake or Sprague Lake, and even try some fly-fishing in the nearby rivers.
Take a break from hiking and spend the day at the Stanley Hotel. This hotel, known for inspiring Stephen King's novel "The Shining", offers ghost tours, historical tours, and afternoon tea in the luxurious lobby. You and your partner can also enjoy a romantic dinner at Cascades Restaurant, which overlooks the Rocky Mountains.
Spend a day exploring the vibrant shops and restaurants in downtown Estes Park. You can shop for souvenirs at the many boutique stores, or grab a bite to eat at local favorites such as Grubsteak Restaurant or Estes Park Brewery. End your day with a stroll along the Estes Park Riverwalk, a scenic path along the Big Thompson River.
Experience the local culture by visiting the Estes Valley Farmers Market. You can sample fresh produce, purchase handcrafted items, and listen to live music. Make sure to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs to relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
Take a romantic horseback ride through the beautiful forests and meadows of Estes Park. You can choose from guided tours or self-guided rides, depending on your preference. Horseback riding is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area in a unique and memorable way.
Take a thrilling ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, which takes you to the summit of Prospect Mountain. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the top, you can also grab a bite to eat at the snack bar or take a leisurely hike on the trails.
Spend your last day on the water with a boat rental from the Lake Estes Marina. You can choose from a variety of boats such as pontoon boats, paddle boats, and even kayaks. This is a relaxing way to end your honeymoon while enjoying the stunning views of the mountains and water.
It is recommended to rent a car for this trip, as the attractions listed above are spread out and public transportation is not widely available. Estes Park is located about an hour and a half from Denver International Airport, and the drive up the mountain is beautiful but winding. Be sure to pack snacks and take breaks to prevent car sickness.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby Boulder or Fort Collins. If you have less time, consider cutting out the Estes Valley Farmers Market or the Lake Estes Marina. Additionally, pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains.
The nearest airport to Estes Park is Denver International Airport (DEN), which is located approximately 78 miles southeast of Estes Park. Travel time from the airport to Estes Park is about one and a half hours by car.