There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, and nothing more refreshing than pulling into Estes Park with our RV surrounded by towering peaks, cool mountain air, and the sense that adventure is just beginning.
Day 1: Arrival, Downtown Stroll & Fireside Dinner
We rolled into Estes Park Campground in the early afternoon and settled in under a clear Colorado sky. With a few hours of daylight left, we headed into downtown Estes Park for some afternoon shopping. Wandering through the charming mountain-town shops, we picked up local artisan goods, Estes Park souvenirs, and a few sweet treats for the road.
That evening, we cooked a cozy campsite dinner and lit up a campfire under the stars. There’s something magical about eating outside with the crackle of flames and the scent of pine all around us.
Day 2: Off-Roading & Wine Tasting
The next morning we set off for a thrilling off-roading adventure in Roosevelt National Forest. The terrain was rugged, the views wide open, and the ride pure fun. Surrounded by dense evergreens and dramatic mountain vistas, we felt completely immersed in Colorado’s wild beauty.
By afternoon, it was time to relax and reward ourselves. We visited Snowy Peaks Winery for a peaceful wine tasting, savoring local reds and whites while soaking in mountain views. It was the perfect contrast to the adrenaline of the morning.
Day 3: Cinnamon Buns & Scenic Loops
We started our third day with a drive along the Glen Haven loop—an incredibly scenic route with lush forests and winding roads. We made a must-stop at the Glen Haven General Store, where their famous cinnamon buns absolutely lived up to the hype. Warm, sticky, and huge—definitely a top morning treat of the trip.
Day 4: Hiking the Lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park
This day was a highlight: a full day of hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. We hit the trail early and hiked to a series of alpine gems—Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and finally Bear Lake. Each one more breathtaking than the last. We stood in awe of glassy reflections, dramatic peaks, and the clear sense of being exactly where we were meant to be.
Day 5: Upper Wind River Hike & Scenic Drive
Our final full day began with a morning hike to Upper Wind River, a quieter trail that gifted us solitude and wildlife sightings in a peaceful setting. Later, we took a scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park, stopping at some of the most jaw-dropping overlooks:
- Sheep Lakes (perfect for spotting elk)
- Forest Canyon Overlook (panoramic views that go on forever)
- Lava Cliffs (stunning geology)
- And the serene beauty of Grand Lake, where we dipped our feet in the water and just breathed.
Final Night: Dinner at The Hive
To cap off an unforgettable trip, we treated ourselves to a final dinner at The Hive, a warm and welcoming spot with fresh ingredients and thoughtful dishes. It was the perfect way to reflect on our journey—with great food, good conversation, and hearts full of gratitude.
Final Thoughts
Our RV trip through Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park gave us everything we could’ve hoped for—wild adventures, quiet moments, sweet treats, scenic drives, and hikes that took our breath away (literally and figuratively).
If you’re looking for a trip that feeds your soul and reawakens your sense of wonder, pack your bags, fire up the RV, and head for the mountains. The road—and the wild—are waiting.