Enjoy this 8.0-mile, 2.5k ft elevation gain, out-and-back trail near Estes Park, Colorado (9 minutes away from the wedding venue!). This is absolutely considered more of a challenging route, so if you're not used to the elevation definitely come prepared with lots of water and maybe even some oxygen canisters! If you're unsure whether you can tackle this one reach out to either of us and we'll give ya the low down!:D
If you're looking for a moderately challenging hike that can get ya some good views of a beautiful lake, check out this 4.0-mile, 800ft elevation gain, out-and-back trail near Estes Park, Colorado. All Trails mentions that this takes about 2hrs to complete, so it may be great to check out during the morning!
If you'd like to take the whole family on a nice stroll before the wedding ceremony, Lily lake is a great option! It's 9 minutes from our wedding venue, and less than a mile.
For a bit further of a drive (40 minutes from the wedding venue) you can check out this nice 2 mile hike. It's got 500 ft of elevation gain so there will be some uphill - but the views are sure to be worth it!
Not for the faint of heart! Twin Sisters Peak is a great option for those of y'all looking to see some incredible mountain views without the danger of Longs Peak (we don't recommend that one). This trail is about 8 miles with about 2.5k in elevation gain. Again, if you'd like some advice on how to be prepared for a hike like this, hit us up!
With so many lakes around, paddle boarding, kayaking, etc is absolutely available if that's what you're in the mood for!:D Lake Estes is one such lake, but there are many others. Just search "Lakes near me" and do a "Lake Adventure!"
Rentals for Lake Estes can be found at the website provided, at Lake Estes Marina.
We haven't done this haha but horseback riding with a view of Longs Peak sounds like a memory worth making! Elkhorn Stables is one of quite a few stables in the estes area that are worth checking out.
Art, shops, treats, coffee, delicious freshly made popcorn of all unique flavors?! We wouldn't recommend stopping by Estes without stopping by the town for at least a quick bite. Lots to see in this CUTE mountain town!
We can't mention "things to do" in estes park without mentioning The Stanley Hotel! It's at such a prominent spot in town that it really can't be missed. There are day tours, and apparently if you're into the supernatural... there are night tours as well! Spooky haha!
Colorado is known for its craft beverages, so it's worth it to check out The Barrel for a taste! Their craft beer garden has upwards of eighty-four rotating taps focusing on craft beer, whiskey, cider (maddy's favorite!), mead, cocktails and wine.
They also have a wide selection of non-alcoholic beer, Colorado craft sodas, kombucha, and lemonade available - so don't feel that you have to drink alcohol to check this place out!