Start your trip by exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike on some of the park's most famous trails like the Bear Lake Trail or the Dream Lake Trail. Take a scenic drive on the Trail Ridge Road and stop by viewpoints like the Alpine Ridge Trailhead and the Forest Canyon Overlook. End your day watching the sunset at the Lumpy Ridge Overlook.
Start your day at the Stanley Hotel, famous for its inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining." Take a guided tour of the historic hotel and learn about its ghost stories and architecture. For lunch, head to Estes Park Brewery and enjoy a pint of their award-winning beer while enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains. End your trip with shopping and strolling around the charming downtown Estes Park.
Since all the attractions are within a few miles of each other, the best way to get around Estes Park is by car. Consider renting a car from Denver International Airport and taking the scenic two-hour drive to Estes Park. Alternatively, take the Estes Park Shuttle from the airport; it takes around 2.5 hours and costs $70 per person each way.
For those with more time, consider going for stargazing at the Rocky Mountain National Park, or going for a longer hike like the Sky Pond Trail. For those with less time, consider skipping the Estes Park Brewery or the Stanley Hotel, and spend more time at the Rocky Mountain National Park. Don't forget to pack warm clothes, as it can get chilly in the mountains even during summer.
The closest airport to Estes Park is Denver International Airport (DEN), which is located around 75 miles southeast of the city. The drive between the airport and Estes Park takes around 2 hours via the US-34 W route.