Your Guide to Accessible Adventures in Estes Park
Estes Park sits at 7,522 feet at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, with the Elk Range rising on three sides and the Fall River running through the center of town. It is an outdoor destination first, but the town itself is compact enough to get around without a car once you're there. In this article we will delve into the things you need to know, including accessible adventures, where to stay, and spots to eat.
Every accessibility detail in this guide comes from Wheel the World's expert mappers, who physically visited and measured each location. These are not self-reported claims. They are real measurements and real site visits, documented so you can plan around your specific needs before you show up.
What's Ahead?
→ Accessible things to do in Estes Park
→ Where to eat and drink in Estes Park
→ Where to stay: accessible hotels in Estes Park
→ Plan your accessible adventure in Estes Park with trusted accessibility info
Accessible things to do in Estes Park
Explore local trails with an all-terrain wheelchair
Estes Park has miles of trails in and around Rocky Mountain National Park, and many of them are more accessible than you might expect. The Grit Freedom Chair makes that even more true. It's an all-terrain wheelchair available for free through a partnership between Estes Park Mountain Shop, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Rocky Mountain Conservancy. The chair is designed for rugged terrain, so it opens up trails that a standard wheelchair can't handle.
To reserve one, call Estes Park Mountain Shop at 970-586-6548 to confirm availability. It's worth calling ahead, especially in summer.
Take a guided tour with Kep Expeditions
Another option for getting outside and immersing yourself in stunning nature is with Kep Expeditions. They run guided and accessible tours through Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the surrounding areas. They specialize in customized experiences, which means you can work with them directly to plan something that fits your needs and ability level. They operate ADA-compliant vehicles and daily tours, making them one of the more practical options for wheelchair users who want a guided way into the backcountry without having to navigate it by yourself.
Accessibility of their headquarters: Ground-level entrance with a 36-inch door. The accessible bathroom has a designated stall with a 35-inch door, lever handle, grab bars, 18-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. Two designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
View more photos and accessibility details →
Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
Looking for a quick thrill? Mustang Mountain Coaster might be the thing you're looking for. Its a scenic alpine coaster ride that winds through the mountains just outside of town. It's one of the more accessible thrill experiences you'll find at elevation anywhere in Colorado. Staff can assist wheelchair users and perform transfers, so if you need help getting into the coaster car, just let them know when you arrive.
Accessibility: The entrance has a ramp with handrails, with a slope rated 2 out of 5, meaning it is gentle and manageable for most wheelchair users. Accessible paths run throughout the area. The general bathroom has a designated accessible stall with a 37-inch door, grab bars, and 60-plus inches of turning space.
View more photos and accessibility details →
Stroll the downtown Estes Park Riverwalk
A bit of a quieter way to experience Estes Park is this Riverwalk, which runs right through the middle of downtown along the Big Thompson River, and then outside of downtown along the Fall River. The path is about a mile long, flat and paved, with shops and restaurants along the way. It's a perfect way to get outside without having to plan a whole adventure.
Accessibility: Ground-level entry throughout with a very gentle slope of 1 out of 5, meaning it is barely noticeable. Accessible paths run the length of the Riverwalk. The bathroom near the parking area has a designated accessible stall with a 36-inch door, grab bars, 18-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. Two designated accessible parking spaces nearby.
View more photos and accessibility details →
Learn at about local history at the Estes Park Museum
The Estes Park Museum covers the full arc of the valley's history, from the Ute and Arapaho peoples who used this land for thousands of years through the homesteaders, entrepreneurs, and artists who shaped the town. The collection includes around 35,000 objects including historical photographs, a Stanley Steamer automobile, textiles, tools, and rotating art exhibitions featuring local artists. There is also a 1908 log cabin on the grounds with period furnishings, and the original Rocky Mountain National Park visitor center from 1915. It is free to enter and worth at least an hour.
Accessibility: The outdoor area has a ground-level entrance with accessible paths throughout and a very gentle slope of 1 out of 5. Benches are available outside with a backrest. The museum exhibition entrance has a 70-inch automatic push-button door, all exhibits are viewable from a wheelchair, and there is 60-plus inches of turning space throughout. The general bathroom has a designated accessible stall with a 36-inch push-pull door, grab bars, 17-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. One designated accessible parking space is located near the entrance.
View more photos and accessibility details →
Where to eat and drink in Estes Park
Estes Park has a solid food scene for a small mountain town, and all six restaurants below have been physically visited and measured by Wheel the World's mappers. After a day of exploring, Estes park makes it easy to grab a delicious bite to eat, a satisfying cold beer, and relax. Here are the top picks.
The Hive at Estes Park Brewery
The Hive is one of Estes Park's original and best craft breweries. It's been open since 1994 and is employee-owned. They have several rotating taps with a variety of cold beers ranging from the Longs Peak Raspberry Wheat to the Trail Ridge Red, plus a craft root beer if you're not drinking. They have a full food menu too, with standouts like the bison bolognese, elk burger, and pizza. Every year since 1995 they have hosted the Best of the West Brewfest in their parking lot, one of the longest-running beer festivals in the area.
Accessibility: Ramp entrance with a very gentle slope of 1 out of 5. Step-free seating with 60-plus inches of turning space. Table heights are 28 inches with 28 inches of clearance underneath. The accessible bathroom stall has a 31-inch door that opens outward, push-pull handle, grab bars, 17-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. There are three designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
Bird & Jim
Bird & Jim sits just outside the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and is one of the highest-rated restaurants in town. The menu is built around seasonal Colorado ingredients sourced from local farms, and it changes regularly. The Carnivore plate with elk, filet mignon, and game sausage is a highlight, and they also have a full bar with craft cocktails. Reservations are recommended on weekends.
Accessibility: Ground-level entry with a gentle ramp and handrails, 36-inch door, slip-resistant hardwood floors. Step-free seating with 60-plus inches of turning space. Table heights are 30 inches with 28 inches of clearance underneath. The accessible bathroom stall has a 36-inch door that opens outward, grab bars, 18-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. There are two designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
The Barrel
The Barrel is an open-air beer, wine, and spirits garden in the heart of downtown with over 60 rotating taps featuring craft beer, mead, cider, and high-end spirits. They also have rotating food trucks serving primarily comfort-style food. It is open May through October and makes for a perfect stop after a day on the trails.
Accessibility: Ground-level entry with a 36-inch door, slip-resistant cement floors. Step-free seating with 60-plus inches of turning space. Table heights are 28 inches with 28 inches of clearance underneath. The accessible bathroom stall has a 37-inch door that opens outward, push-pull handle, grab bars, 17-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. There are two designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
Avant Garde Aleworks
A small craft brewery on Dunraven Street, Avant Garde is one of the best breweries in Estes Park. They brew everything on site using Rocky Mountain water, with around 11 beers on tap that rotate with the seasons. The beer garden is strung with lights and has a fountain, and they bring in food trucks. You are allowed to bring in other takeout though. So grab whatever food you're feeling and bring it here and pair it with some of the top beers in the area.
Accessibility: Ground-level entry with a 35-inch door, slip-resistant hardwood floors. Step-free seating with 60-plus inches of turning space. Table heights are 31 inches with 31 inches of clearance underneath. The private accessible bathroom has a 36-inch door, grab bars, 17-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. There is one designated accessible parking space near the entrance.
Alteatude
Alteatude is a coffee shop in the heart of downtown. They serve espresso drinks, teas, and light bites, and have both indoor seating and a back entrance that opens to the shared parking area.
Accessibility: Ground-level entry with a 36-inch door, slip-resistant tile floors. Step-free seating with 60-plus inches of turning space. Table heights are 31 inches with 28 inches of clearance underneath. The private accessible bathroom has a 36-inch door that opens outward, lever handle, grab bars, 17-inch toilet height, and 60-plus inches of turning space. There are six designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance.
Where to stay: accessible hotels in Estes Park
YMCA of the Rockies
The YMCA of the Rockies is one of the most well-known places to stay in Estes Park, and it is unlike most places called a YMCA. It sits on 5,100 acres bordering Rocky Mountain National Park, with lodge rooms and cabins available. A full calendar of activities is included with your stay depending on the season, from archery and horseback riding to swimming and ice skating. It is family-oriented and affordable.
Does it work for your needs?
- Entrance: Ground-level entry with a 72-inch automatic door
- Lobby: Smooth slip-resistant tile floors with 60-plus inches of turning space.
- Elevator: 41-inch door, 51 inches wide and 51 inches deep, Braille and raised number buttons
- Room: 34-inch door with lever handle, step-free entry, 60-plus inches of turning space
- Bed: 27-inch bed height with 15-inches of space on side of bed. No space underneath, so if you require a Hoyer lift, bringing or shipping bed risers to the hotel may be a good option.
- Bathroom: 35-inch door opens outward, grab bars, 18-inch toilet, roll-in shower with 61-inch entrance, handheld showerhead, portable shower seat with backrest, sink with knee clearance underneath of 27 inches.
- Dining: Ground-level automatic entrance, step-free, tables are 28 inches high with 27 inches of clearance
- Pool: Ground-level entry, steps into the pool, no pool lift
- Staff: Trained to push and assist wheelchair users, perform transfers, and guide guests around the property. ASL available.
View more photos, accessibility info, and book here →
Worldmark Estes Park
Worldmark Estes Park sits right on the Big Thompson River at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, about a mile from downtown. It is a condo-style resort with two-bedroom suites that have full kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies. Elk regularly wander through the property. Amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, three hot tubs, and a fitness center.
Does it work for your needs?
- Entrance: Ground-level entry with a 74-inch door
- Lobby: Smooth slip-resistant tile floors with 60-plus inches of turning space
- Room: 34-inch door with lever handle, step-free entry, 60-plus inches of turning space
- Bed: 28-inch bed height with 30 inches of space on the side of the bed. No space underneath, so if you require a Hoyer lift, bringing or shipping bed risers may be a good option.
- Bathroom: 36-inch automatic door, grab bars, 18-inch toilet, shower with 60-inch entrance, handheld showerhead, fixed shower seat, sink with 30 inches of knee clearance underneath
- Balcony: Step-free with at least 60 inches of turning space
- Pool: Ground-level entry, steps into the pool, no pool lift
- Staff: Can guide guests with reduced mobility and assist with transfers
View more photos, accessibility info, and book here →
Wildwood Inn
Wildwood Inn sits on seven acres of private land along Fall River Road, about three miles from downtown Estes Park and less than a mile from the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance. It is quieter and more removed than anything in town, with suites and cabins featuring private decks, hot tubs, and mountain views. There is also an on-site day spa and sauna. The property can accommodate rented adaptive or clinical bed equipment sent in advance.
Does it work for your needs?
- Entrance: Ground-level entry with a very gentle ramp rated 1 out of 5 and a 36-inch door with a lever handle
- Lobby: Smooth slip-resistant tile floors with 60-plus inches of turning space
- Room: 36-inch door with lever handle, step-free entry, 60-plus inches of turning space
- Bed: 26-inch bed height with 42 inches of space on the side of the bed. No space underneath, so if you require a Hoyer lift, bringing or shipping bed risers may be a good option.
- Bathroom: 37-inch sliding door, grab bars, 17-inch toilet, low-entry bathtub with grab bars and handheld showerhead, sink with 27 inches of knee clearance underneath
- Balcony: Accessible with 60-plus inches of turning space
- Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance
View more photos, accessibility info, and book here →
Plan your accessible adventure in Estes Park with trusted accessibility info
We already visited to measure and verify accessibility at hotels, attractions, and restaurants
Get startedFrequently asked questions
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.
How do I get to Estes Park?
Estes Park is about 90 minutes from Denver International Airport by car. There is no direct public transit from Denver to Estes Park, so renting a vehicle is the most practical option. Wheelchair-accessible van rentals are available through companies like Wheelers and United Access, both of which serve the Denver and Front Range area.
Is Rocky Mountain National Park accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. Several trails inside the park are fully accessible, including the Sprague Lake Loop, the Lily Lake Trail, and the Coyote Valley Trail, all of which have hard-packed gravel surfaces suitable for wheelchairs. The Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road is also wheelchair accessible. An America the Beautiful Access Pass is available free to U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities and covers park entry fees.
What is the Grit Freedom Chair and how do I reserve one?
The Grit Freedom Chair is a free all-terrain wheelchair available through a partnership between Estes Park Mountain Shop, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Rocky Mountain Conservancy. It is designed for rugged outdoor terrain and opens up trails that a standard wheelchair cannot handle. To reserve one, call Estes Park Mountain Shop at 970-586-6548 to confirm availability. It is worth calling ahead, especially during summer.
Are there accessible guided tours available in Estes Park?
Yes. Kep Expeditions runs guided tours through Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park and specializes in customized experiences based on your needs and ability level. They operate ADA-compliant vehicles and can work with you directly to plan a tour that works for your equipment and mobility requirements.
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