Accessible Guide to Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park, Colorado, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community, is a gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park. This guide is designed to help travelers with disabilities plan an inclusive and enjoyable trip to Estes Park, highlighting accessible accommodations, attractions, activities, rentals, and dining options.
Is Estes Park Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, Estes Park is wheelchair accessible with numerous accommodations, attractions, and activities suitable for people with disabilities. With Estes Park being just a stones throw away from Rocky National Park, outdoor activities are prevalent and readily available. With the right equipment and companions, wheelchair-users can enjoy their visit.
Best Time to Visit Estes Park
The best time to visit Estes Park depends on your preferences for activities and weather. The summer months, from June to September, offer warm temperatures (and cool nights) and are perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the outdoors. Many of the trails and outdoor activities are open during the summer, too. You will also find events going on during the summer months.
The winter months, from December to February, transforms Estes Park into a snowy wonderland, ideal for winter sports and cozy retreats. However, the roads can become treacherous and difficult to navigate. For a more smooth sailing visit, it's recommended to visit during the summer.
Accessible Accommodations in Estes Park
Here are some accessible hotels to consider for your visit to Estes Park. These accommodation options are equipped with suitable features for wheelchair-users,
YMCA of the Rockies
The YMCA of the Rockies offers a range of accessible accommodations, including wheelchair-accessible rooms and cabins. Located within a short drive from Rocky Mountain National Park, this family-friendly lodge ensures a comfortable stay for all guests. The property features accessible trails, dining options, an indoor pool, bicycles for rent, and recreational activities such as an arcade/game room. Guests can also enjoy a snack bar/deli and buffet breakfasts available daily.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 27 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- Door width of 34 inches into bedroom and bathroom
- 27 inches of space under sink
View more photos and accessibility information for YMCA of the Rockies.
The Inn on Fall River
The Inn on Fall River provides accessible rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts. Nestled alongside the serene Fall River and surrounded by natural beauty, this inn offers a peaceful retreat while being in close proximity to downtown Estes Park and its various attractions. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor hot tub, riverside picnic areas, and a tranquil garden with a waterfall, ensuring a relaxing stay for all visitors.
There are a couple different rooms that offer accessibility. The Ponderosa Cabin is pictured above.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars (not in cabin)
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 28 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom, bathroom, and balcony
- Door width of 34 and 36 inches into bedroom and bathroom, respectively
- 26-29 inches of space under sink
View more photos and accessibility information for The Inn on Fall River.
Worldmark Estes Park
WorldMark Estes Park offers accessible suites with features like roll-in showers, wider doorways, and lower countertops. Nestled near the entrance of the Rocky Mountains on the Big Thompson River, this resort provides a scenic getaway with stunning mountain vistas and abundant wildlife. Guests can enjoy the outdoor heated pool and three hot tubs with lifts available, grassy picnic grounds, fitness center, and game room. The resort's spacious two-bedroom suites include fully equipped kitchens, washer/dryer units, and separate living areas, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 28 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom, bathroom, and balcony
- Door width of 34 and 36 inches into bedroom and bathroom, respectively
- 30 inches of space under sink
View more photos and accessibility information for The Inn on Fall River.
Trailborn Rocky Mountains
Trailborn Rocky Mountains is provides accessible lodging with rooms that include roll-in showers, grab bars, and ample turning space. The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, an on site café, bar, restaurant & market, and a fire pit in the backyard patio. They also provide curated experiences, which include a range of activities from live music at their restaurant to fly fishing to photography hikes. Although the experiences are not all going to be accessible, it's worth checking out their upcoming schedule to see whats happening.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 31 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- Door width of 32 inches into bathroom
- Door width of 34 inches into bedroom
- Step-free entrance
View more photos and accessibility information for Trailborn Rocky Mountain.
Accessible Things to do in Estes Park
With Estes Park being an outdoor enthusiast dream, you will find no shortage of places to see and explore. Here are some accessible activities to consider doing during your stay.
The Bull Pin Bowling Alley and Sports Bar
Located in downtown Estes Park, Bull Pin Bowling Alley is fun place that offers modern bowling lanes and a lively sports bar ambiance. Challenge your friends to a thrilling game of bowling, play some of their arcade games, or kick back and catch the latest sports games on big screens while enjoying tasty food and drinks. Bull Pin Bowling Alley is accessible with a step-free entrance via ramp and the restroom is has toilet grab bars and 60+ inches of turning space. View more photos and accessibility details.
Mustang Mountain Coaster
Mustang Mountain Coaster is an exciting adventure destination perfect for the whole family. Located in a picturesque mountain setting, visitors can enjoy a thrilling coaster ride that winds through the scenic landscapes. Staff can assist people with disabilities by pushing/carrying wheelchairs, bags and with transfers. The entrance is equipped with a ramp and the onsite bathroom is spacious with toilet grab bars.
View details and pricing on the Mustang Mountain Coaster website.
Kep Expeditions
Kep Expeditions stands out for its specialized guided trips through Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the surrounding areas. Their commitment to customization sets them apart, ensuring that every individual can have an unforgettable experience.
They actively promote accessibility, hosting diverse events to cater to a broader range of adventurers. With daily operations and a fleet of ADA-compliant vehicles, Kep Expeditions provides safe and comfortable exploration led by passionate guides. Inspired by the pioneering spirit of Lewis "Kep" Keplinger, they aspire to make the wonders of the Rocky Mountains accessible to all.
Explore Accessible Trails Near Estes Park
If you're visiting Estes Park, this is a must! Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers will be in heaven during their stay. There are so many trails to explore here that you could spend the entire time checking them out. Next, we will cover some of the trails to put on your radar during your stay.
What Trails are Wheelchair Accessible in Rocky Mountain National Park?
With Rocky Mountain National Park being on the doorstep of Estes Park, visitors come for the amazing outdoor adventures and trails that surround it. Although many of them are known for their steep terrain, there are ample options for easier trails while still being immersed in the scenic beauty. Plus, you may have a good chance of spotting wildlife! So, here are some wheelchair-friendly trails in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Sprague Lake Loop: this loop trail is less than a mile (0.8) and offers an easy stroll around Sprague Lake. It's open year-round, though you may encounter patches of snow, water, or mud in some parts. If you're lucky, you may be able to see a moose!
- Bear Lake Loop: another loop trail, this 0.7-mile stroll provides gorgeous scenery and a relatively accessible trail. Keep in mind there may be a couple sections that some might find difficult (like some steepness) but it still doable. Bear Lake Loop is open year-round.
- Bear Lake South Trails: this half-mile trail is another beautiful hike surrounded by mountains. Some sections may be challenging to navigate for wheelchair-users, but a majority of the trail is well maintained. The best time to visit this trail is June-October.
- Lily Lake: a 0.8-mile loop that offers wheelchair accessible trails, picnic tables along the way, and a good chance of seeing wildlife. Lily Lake is open year-round
- Alluvial Fan Trail: a very nice, 0.7-mile paved trail with amazing views of the waterfalls. The best times to do this trail is May-September.
Estes Park All-Terrain Wheelchair Rental
Estes Park Mountain Shop (EPMS), in partnership with Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Conservancy, is excited to offer the Grit Freedom Chair! This innovative all-terrain wheelchair provides free access to hiking trails in the beautiful Estes Valley, opening up new possibilities for exploration. This adaptive equipment allows users to explore rugged trails and outdoor areas much easier, ensuring a more inclusive outdoor adventure experience.
Reserve the chair: Call the Estes Park Mountain Shop at 970-586-6548 to confirm availability.
Learn more: Visit their website for basic information and the chair's specifications.
Challenge yourself: While technically usable on any trail, the chair requires practice due to its size and maneuverability.
Restaurant and Food Options in Estes Park
No vacation is complete without indulging in the local food options! Here are a few recommendations for restaurants to try during your stay in Estes Park.
- You Need Pie: a charming bakery and eatery offering delicious pies and a classic American comfort menu.
- The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern: American cuisine with live music and outdoor seating.
- Twin Owls Steakhouse: great menu with a variety of steak and seafood options, with live music.
- Claire’s Restaurant and Bar: a cozy restaurant with stunning mountain views. They serve a variety of classic American dishes such as BBQ, sandwiches, and salads. Available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Planning Your Accessible Trip to Estes Park
Estes Park provides a wonderful and inclusive environment for all visitors, ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty and adventure this region has to offer. If you enjoy being outdoors immersed in nature, Estes Park may just be the gem you're looking for.
Comments ()