Downtown Estes Park

Winter Photography Tips from Fall River Village Resort

Winter Photography: A photographer looks for the perfect shot near Estes Park.

Well before social media and digital cameras, taking pictures has been a significant part of the vacation experience. As we make our way through fall, many visitors to Fall River Village Resort are gearing up for winter getaways in Estes Park, meaning there will be plenty of winter photography opportunities. It goes without saying that smartphones and advanced point-and-shoot cameras make taking pictures more manageable than ever. Still, winter can present a new set of challenges because of how snow, cold weather, and prominent cloud cover can affect lighting and the overall appearance of imagery. To help ensure your time isn’t wasted on blurry pictures or foggy lenses, we put together five tips for a better winter photography experience.

Winter Photography Opportunities | Estes Park, Colorado

Some perceive winter photography as challenging due to prior unsuccessful attempts. The often-overlooked charm lies in the new perspective created by snow-covered forests, icicles, and frozen lakes. The colder months offer a unique canvas for photography, showcasing a pristine white landscape. While winter poses challenges with its limited color palette and sunlight, amateur and professional photographers can capture enchanting and surreal moments by investing effort and creativity into their shots. Embracing the cold opens up magical photographic opportunities to portray your winter getaway in a captivating light.

5 Winter Photography Tips

Whether at Rocky Mountain National Park or Downtown Estes Park, our idyllic area offers a wealth of winter photography possibilities. Here are a few tips to help you capture beautiful memories.

  • Embrace all weather conditions, including snowstorms and blizzards, for unique photographic opportunities. Just make sure you put safety at the forefront.
  • To capture captivating images, utilize every hour of the day, not just the “golden hours” around sunrise and sunset.
  • Minimize tracks and footprints in your shots to maintain the pristine and surreal quality of a winter setting.
  • Carry spare batteries to counter the cold temperatures that can drain your camera’s power, especially if using electronic screens for framing shots.
  • Adjust the white balance to a cold setting before editing to bring out vibrant snow and pronounced shadows in your photos.

Vacation Rental Condos near Downtown Estes Park

Fall River Village in Winter

It doesn’t take long to realize that the greater Estes Park area has many excellent places for winter photography. From snowcapped mountains to bustling streets, you can let your imagination and creativity run wild. Fall River Village is your go-to lodging option with a sizable collection of accommodations near all the action. To start planning your Estes Park winter getaway, check out our vacation rentals today!

Beautiful Colorado Fall Foliage near Estes Park

Colorado fall foliage near Estes Park.

Although summer will soon bid us farewell in the Rocky Mountains, a magnificent transformation will begin—Colorado fall foliage season! The air becomes crisper, and nature’s paintbrush works its magic, drenching the landscape in a breathtaking red, orange, and gold tapestry. From late September to early October, the picturesque town of Estes Park comes alive with vibrant hues, drawing in leaf peepers from all over to witness the mesmerizing display. Let’s delve into the best spots to experience the captivating Colorado fall foliage near Fall River Village and immerse ourselves in the wonders of this enchanting season.

Rocky Mountain National Park: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

When it comes to Colorado fall foliage, Rocky Mountain National Park reigns supreme. This iconic national park is a haven for aspen groves, which burst into brilliant shades of gold and yellow during the fall. Stroll along the meandering trails, and witness various tree stands creating a kaleidoscope of colors against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. 

Whether you venture to Bear Lake, Moraine Park, or the Bierstadt Lake Trail, each turn offers a new vista of nature’s grandeur. Capture the beauty with your camera or simply stand in awe of the breathtaking landscape surrounding you. There’s no better place to experience the magic of autumn than within the embrace of Rocky Mountain National Park’s fall foliage extravaganza.

Trail Ridge Road

Within Rocky Mountain National Park, soak in the full splendor of Colorado fall foliage and embark on a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road. As the highest continuous paved road in the United States, this iconic byway offers unparalleled views of the surrounding valleys, canyons, and peaks draped in fall colors. The journey takes you through evergreen forests and past aspen groves, treating you to a symphony of amber and crimson hues. 

Be sure to stop at the various viewpoints along the way, where you can savor the panoramic views and capture the essence of fall in the Rockies. The drive along Trail Ridge Road is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed during autumn.

Local Parks and Open Spaces near Downtown Estes Park

While the grandeur of Rocky Mountain National Park is awe-inspiring, be sure to notice the beauty in the local parks and open spaces of Estes Park. Stanley Park and Bond Park, among others, offer peaceful settings where you can revel in the warm colors of fall without venturing too far from town. Walk along the tree-lined paths and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you witness the changing leaves. These hidden gems provide intimate encounters with Colorado fall foliage, allowing you to bask in the natural wonders of autumn in the heart of Estes Park.

Hiking the Lily Mountain Trail

For those who wish to hike during their Colorado fall foliage tour, the Lily Mountain Trail is an excellent option, about a 15-minute drive from Fall River Village. This moderate out-and-back corridor winds through dense alpine groves and open meadows, offering intimate connections with nature’s masterpiece. As you hike toward the summit, the golden leaves form a glowing canopy overhead, creating a dreamlike ambiance. Once there, you’ll find a panoramic view of the surrounding hillsides and distant mountains adorned with captivating autumn hues. The Lily Mountain Trail promises a rewarding experience for hikers looking to immerse themselves in vibrant fall colors.

Lily Lake

Just south of the Lily Mountain Trailhead, Lily Lake presents another picture-perfect setting for observing the Colorado fall foliage. The serene waterbody beautifully reflects the shimmering views adding a delightful bonus to this charming recreational area. Stroll along the lake’s edge and embrace the tranquility of your surroundings as the iconic evergreens play a complementary role in this picturesque display. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual sightseer, Lily Lake offers a captivating backdrop for capturing the essence of Colorado’s autumnal offerings.

Estes Park Condo Lodging near Rocky Mountain National Park

An aerial view of a condo-style vacation rental at Fall River Village Resort in Estes Park, Colorado.

It doesn’t take long to realize that the Colorado fall foliage paints a stunning portrait that captivates the senses. From the iconic byways in Rocky Mountain National Park to the quaint parks surrounding downtown, every nook and cranny around Estes Park seemingly reveals an awe-inspiring natural masterpiece. This autumn, Fall River Village Resort invites you to embrace the season’s beauty and witness the northern wonders of the Centennial State. 

To book your stay or learn more about our condo-style vacation rentals, please visit us online or call 970-325-6864 today!

Wet Your Whistle at These 4 Estes Park Breweries

A group of friends laugh over beer at one of the Estes Park breweries.

By now, it’s no secret that Colorado has built a reputation among beer lovers in the last several years. Sometimes referred to as “The Napa Valley of Beer” by craft beer enthusiasts, only California has more breweries than Colorado. So for guests of Fall River Village Resort who happen to have an affinity for suds on the mountain, we put together a quick and easy guide to the Estes Park breweries we think you’ll appreciate.

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. is a family-owned brewery in Estes Park, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. They feature a diverse lineup of beers, including traditional styles like Ranch Deluxe Western American Lager and experimental brews like the Cool Runnings Caribbean-style stout, all made with high-quality ingredients. They have a daily happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m., and they’re known to have a rotating assortment of food trucks nearby. We hear they have some incredible artwork inside too!

Rock Cut Brewing Company

A flight of craft beers.

Located in the heart of Estes Park and an easy walk from downtown, Rock Cut Brewing Company is known for its rotating selection of handcrafted libations. They focus on creating unique and innovative brews, like the Interference IPA and Endless Summer fruited Saison. Rock Cut Brewing also has an open policy on bringing in food so you can order takeout from your favorite restaurant, and they’ll supply the plates, napkins, and silverware! 

Avante Garde Aleworks

Specializing in European-style beers, Avant Garde Aleworks boasts a rotating assortment of saisons, strong ales, IPAs, and hard seltzers. Their on-tap selection changes with each season, but summer is the perfect time to relax on the patio after a day of hiking. They also have a modest appetizer selection for when the food trucks are gone and hunger strikes.

Estes Park Brewery

Estes Park Brewery is arguably the most popular of the Estes Park breweries, not just because of its name. This local staple has been in the game since 1994 and won’t slow down anytime soon. With over 12 handcrafted beers and a spacious beer garden, it’s no wonder why locals and visitors alike have come to favor this local favorite. In addition to their taproom, they also offer a bar and restaurant featuring pizzas, burgers, chili, and sandwiches.

Estes Park Condo Lodging Near Downtown

An exterior view of a condo at Fall River Village.

Now that you’re more familiar with the top Estes Park breweries, you’ll have no trouble finding your favorite. And with a convenient location close to downtown, staying at Fall River Village Resort will have you “living like a local” in no time! To learn more about our Estes Park lodging options and the type of vacation rentals we offer, please contact us online or call 970-325-6864 today!

An Estes Park Romantic Getaway Hosted by Fall River Village

A young couple share an embrace as they enjoy their Estes Park romantic getaway.

Making our way through the thick of winter and beginning a new year, there’s no better time to reflect on our relationships. Going out of your way to spend time as a couple is always crucial. Still, the cold weather and early sunsets create the perfect opportunity to maximize our time together before spring arrives. If you and that special someone have never been to the Rocky Mountains, you should strongly consider planning a romantic getaway in Estes Park. And whether you’ll be on your first vacation as a couple or celebrating years of dedication, Fall River Village Resort is the ideal place to do it!

Romantic Getaways in the Colorado Rockies

Estes Park is a top-tier romantic getaway destination with picturesque alpine scenery, brisk mountain air, and seemingly endless things to do. Whether you wish to go sightseeing amid the backdrop of the Rockies, do some shopping downtown, or simply hang out at your vacation rental, Fall River Village Resort offers an unmitigated to plan your days. Here are seven wintery ways to set the stage for an unforgettable retreat with your significant other.

Beyond Charming | Estes Park Vacation Rentals

An aerial view of Fall River Village on a winter night.

Finding things to do in Estes Park for a romantic getaway couldn’t be any easier! And if you’re looking for well-appointed accommodations to match an incredible vacation with your better half, Fall River Village Resort has you covered! We offer an assortment of one-bedroom lodging options that are perfect for couples hoping to set the stage for an intimate escape. To learn more, call 970-325-6864 or reach out online!

10 Quintessential Estes Park Winter Activities

A trio of friends enjoying the Estes Park winter while cross country skiing atop a mountain hillside.

With its mountain charm and seemingly endless recreational options, it’s no secret that Estes Park is a premier vacation spot. And even though some travelers may think of places like Vail or Breckenridge when it comes to Colorado cold-weather fun, there are many indoor and outdoor Estes Park winter activities to choose from. Whether or not you’re a snow enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of fun in our beloved alpine town. So to help give you some ideas on spending time here during the winter, Fall River Village Resort offers a few suggestions for everyone from foodies to adventurers. 

Things to Do around Estes Park in Winter

From eating and shopping downtown to trekking the backcountry at Rocky Mountain National Park, the Estes Park area has much to offer. Here are ten of our favorite Estes Park winter activities.

  • Snowshoe hiking is a must-do experience for winter sports enthusiasts in Estes Park. Although some corridors may be closed because of weather, many trails remain accessible. Just be sure to check the road conditions.
  • Ice skating on Dream Lake is a nice addition to your Estes Park winter bucket list, but you’ll want to go with a partner! Handwarmers and a blanket are a good idea too.
  • Backcountry skiing at Rocky Mountain National Park is the ultimate outdoor winter adventure for expert-level skiers. Colorado Mountain School can get you started.
  • Sledding and tubing in The Hidden Valley will lead to countless memories for friends and family. We’ll even give you some directions.
  • Indoor rock climbing is an excellent way to find adventure without messing around in the cold snow. Estes Park Mountain Shop has one of the best climbing gyms in the nation!
  • Swimming in winter doesn’t have to be a “polar plunge” when you pay a visit to the Estes Valley Community Center! They also have a great gym if swimming isn’t your thing.
  • Downtown Estes Park offers a casual segue to take in some fresh winter air while you enjoy shopping, restaurants, and art galleries. The best part is you can walk there from Fall River Village Resort!
  • Tours at The Stanley Hotel are the best way to explore its longstanding history. Day and night tours are available, and there’s no waiting list!
  • The Aspire Spa & Fitness Center offers a premier wellness experience to help you find balance on your getaway.
  • Live music events and community festivals are a staple for any Estes Park vacation, and winter is no exception! Whether at The Stanley Hotel or nearby, you’re bound to find some top-tier entertainment! 

Premier Estes Park Condos and Vacation Rentals

Fall River Village in Winter

For additional options, check out our attractions page for more Estes Park winter activities. Now that you’re familiar with some things to do this winter, it’s time to plan your mountain getaway with Fall River Village Resort! But before you start making that itinerary, you’ll want to browse our collection of vacation rentals, condos, and townhomes! For more information, reach out online or call 970-325-6864 today!