Estes Park, CO - Our First Trip of 2011

T@B camper in Estes Park

We rolled the T@B out of moth balls and headed for Estes Park, Colorado, this past weekend for the first trip of the season.  We couldn't have asked for better weather, which lent itself well to exploring Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) and enjoying nearby hiking trails.

Deep snow in May at Bear Lake

Wild Turkeys in RMNP

We stayed at Spruce Lake RV Park on the edge of town, just a short 10 minute drive to the entrance of RMNP.   The national park is abundant with wildlife, but we only had to travel a few yards from the campground to see a herd of elk.  In fact, there was fresh evidence of elk activity right at our campsite when we arrived, which made after-dark trips to the restrooms a little bit like running blindly through a mine field.

One day after breakfast we drove up to Bear Lake in RMNP.  We started out in dry and warm, summer-like, conditions, but found that Winter still has a firm hold on areas at elevation.  Bear Lake was covered in ice and snow, and there were many areas where the snow depth was still several feet deep.  On the way to the lake, we saw wild turkeys, which was a first for me in RMNP.

Gem Lake with views to the Continental Divide

On another day we hiked 4 miles roundtrip to Gem Lake.  This is a small, shallow body of water surrounded by rock cliffs that form a unique location that is picturesque, relaxing, and peaceful in spite of  its popularity and many visitors.  It makes a great hiking destination that is relatively easy to get to, although it has some (950') elevation gain.

More photos available here.

If you go:

Estes Park is located about 70 miles Northwest of Denver, CO.  It is a small tourist mountain town with a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, and many family activities.  It is also the east entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it a favorite summer destination.

Help - Get me out of here!

The Gem Lake Trail is a short hike that begins at the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead and offers panoramic views of the Continental Divide.  It is about a 4 mile roundtrip hike with 950' of elevation gain that passes many interesting rock formations.  It is rated as a moderately strenuous hike.

Spruce Lake RV Park is located adjacent to the Big Thompson River with full RV amenities including water, electric, cable, sewer hook ups, and a dump station.  The resort also includes a small fishing lake, putt-putt golf, pool and hot tub (not open during our early season visit) and easy walking access to shops and restaurants.  The campground has hot shower facilities and restrooms, which we found to always be very clean.  Check their website for reservations and the current fee schedule.  We recommend sites closest to the river for privacy and campsite viewing of the stream.