Your tour through the Rockies begins at the Estes Park entrance, where youâll have the opportunity to take a detour down toward Bear Lake. The first hiking trail youâll reach along the main route is Deer Mountain Trailhead, offering great views from above if youâre willing to make the trek. Youâll see Beaver Ponds, featuring a boardwalk through a unique wetland biome, followed by Hidden Valley.
Next, youâll arrive at the first of many overlooks: Many Parks Curve Overlook. This viewpoint offers excellent views of a bunch of lush glacial meadows. As you continue, youâll pass the Roger Toll Memorial, and after a few more overlooks, youâll arrive at Poudre Lake. On your way to the Colorado River Trailhead, which offers a look at an abandoned mining town, youâll hear about Margaret Boos and the science behind the Rocky Mountains.
Further along are a couple fascinating historical sites. First up is the Timber Creek Road Camp Barn, an artifact of the depression-era work projects which helped build the parkâs roads and trails. Then, thereâs the Holzwarth Historic Site, a remnant of the homesteads which could once be found all over the Rockies. Up ahead, at Coyote Valley Trailhead, youâll find an easy, paved trail with a popular fishing spot at the end. On your way to the Green Mountain Trailhead, youâll learn about the bountiful wildlife that call the Rocky Mountains home.
Finally, youâll arrive at the lakeside town of Grand Lake, a perfect place to round off your experience.
