Rocky Mountain National 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!

Mountain Biking Colorado: Estes Park Edition

Welcome to Estes Park, Colorado, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled amid the majestic Rocky Mountains, this charming town offers an array of exhilarating outdoor activities, and mountain biking is undoubtedly one of the highlights. With its diverse trail systems, stunning scenery, and trails suitable for all skill levels, Estes Park is a premier Colorado mountain biking destination. Fall River Village Resort invites you to feel the rush of adrenaline and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Estes Park!

Colorado Mountain Bike Trails near Estes Park

Estes Park boasts an impressive array of mountain biking trails, catering to riders of all abilities. From smooth, flowing singletrack to challenging technical routes, there’s something for everyone. Imagine yourself pedaling through the alpine forest, surrounded by towering pines and spectacular vistas! Traverse the undulating paths of Hermit Park Open Space, where glimpses of wildlife and serene meadows captivate your senses. Although mountain biking isn’t permitted within Rocky Mountain National Park, nearby trails outside the park offer memorable rides with sweeping mountain views. The diverse trail options ensure that every rider, whether a beginner or a seasoned pro, can find their perfect adventure.

Endless Natural Beauty

Estes Park has more than just incredible trails; it’s a place where nature’s beauty is showcased at every turn. Picture yourself riding alongside crystal-clear streams, past wildflower-dotted meadows, and through dense forests alive with the songs of birds. The backdrop of the Rocky Mountains envelops you with their majestic peaks, rugged cliffs, and iconic summits. 

As you ascend, the air becomes crisper, and the views become more expansive, leaving you in awe of the raw beauty surrounding you. Every pedal stroke takes you deeper into this tapestry of natural wonders, an experience that transcends ordinary biking and becomes a journey of discovery and connection with the great outdoors.

Tailored Experiences for All

Estes Park welcomes riders of all skill levels, ensuring everyone can partake in the mountain biking adventure. Beginners can delight in gentle trails with forgiving terrain, allowing them to build confidence and enjoy the scenery comfortably. Intermediate riders will be challenged by exciting twists and turns, testing their skills while relishing in the stunning surroundings. Advanced riders seeking an adrenaline rush will encounter steep climbs, technical sections, and thrilling descents that push their limits. Whether embarking on a solo ride or joining a guided tour, Estes Park offers a range of Colorado mountain biking experiences tailored to your abilities and desires.

Planning Your Epic Colorado Mountain Biking Adventure

Planning is crucial before setting off on your mountain biking adventure in Estes Park. You must research trail conditions, closures, and local regulations to ensure a smooth and safe experience. Pack appropriate safety gear, carry ample water and snacks, and respect the environment by staying on designated trails. By being well-prepared, you can fully immerse yourself in the thrill of mountain biking while preserving the natural beauty of Colorado for future adventurers.

Ideal Estes Park Condo Vacation Rentals for Any Adventure

A beautiful view from a Fall River Village mountain condo.

Colorado mountain biking is some of the best in the nation, if not the world! And we can all but guarantee that you’ll be pleased with the experience and the lifelong memories you create while on the trails. From beginners looking for their first taste of the alpine air to seasoned mountain biking enthusiasts looking for their next challenge, Fall River Village Resort is happy to provide something much more than a place to stay. After all, there’s nothing like returning to rest in comfort after a long day of cruising berms and bombing hills. 
Reach out online to learn more about Estes Park, or book your stay today!

5 Must-Visit Rocky Mountain National Park Waterfalls

Chasm Falls, one of several Rocky Mountain National Park waterfalls.

With its scenic alpine surroundings and fantastic summer weather, it’s no surprise that Estes Park is among Colorado’s top places to visit—no small thanks to Rocky Mountain National Park. Undoubtedly, the dramatic valleys, navigable foothills, and iconic peaks at Rocky Mountain National Park lend themselves to exploration and wonder. Still, several beautiful waterfalls are also found throughout the park, most of which are relatively accessible. 

If you’re planning a stay around Estes Park and want the inside scoop on some of the best waterfalls in Colorado, Fall River Village Resort has you covered!

Horseshoe Falls

Horseshoe Falls is a safe bet for those looking for a cascading waterfall that’s easy to find. Located only 100 yards from Old Fall River Road,  it’s a perfect spot to stop when pressed for time. It’s also a wonderful waterfall for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park for the first time. Take Fall River Road to Old Fall River Road, where you’ll find the West Alluvial Fan Trailhead less than a half-mile further and the start of an easy hike.

Chasm Falls

Another Rocky Mountain National Park waterfall that’s ideal for families is Chasm Falls. This unique waterfall is very popular in the summer, so you should arrive early. Still, you’ll be glad you did, as it’s one of the most picturesque features of the park, thanks to the way it seemingly bursts through the rock wall. The hike to Chasm Falls is well-marked and easy to navigate.

Copeland Falls

Located on the Wild Basin Trailhead, Copeland Falls is the first along the primary trail and not far from the entrance. Copeland Falls becomes more of a cascade during the snowmelt or heavy rain. One of its defining features is that it’s a viable fishing spot for eager anglers.

Ouzel Falls

When you’re ready to take on a moderate degree of difficulty, Ouzel Falls will be waiting for you. The 5.5-mile roundtrip hike and 950 feet of elevation gain are nothing to scoff at, but not impossible for intermediate adventurers. The journey to Ouzel Falls will reward you with several creeks and a trio of other cascades.

Ribbon Falls

Ribbon Falls is arguably the most challenging waterfall hike on our Rocky Mountains National Park list. Starting at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead that passes by another notable landmark, Alberta Falls, you’ll trek nearly five miles to Ribbon Falls. As a bonus, you can go an extra .2 miles to see Black Lake Falls pummeling the lake from above.

Top-Tier Estes Park Condo Vacation Rentals

An exterior view of an rustic yet elegant vacation rental in Estes Park, CO.

Although we shared only a few Rocky Mountain National Park waterfalls, we’re confident our list will provide an excellent starting point. And if you want equally excellent Estes Park vacation rentals, look no further than Fall River Village Resort! Not only can we promise a place to rest after each exciting adventure, but we also have all the amenities you need less than a 15-minute drive away from the park. 
To start planning your trip, please check availability online or call 970-325-6864 for more information today!

Spending Time at Rocky Mountain National Park

A father and his daughters looking out into the alpine landscape at Rocky Mountain National Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park is an absolute treasure of the American West. With its towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, the park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of one of Colorado’s most precious assets. And what makes it even better is that Fall River Village Resort in Estes Park is less than five miles away, where you’ll have a comfortable vacation condo to call home!

Unsullied Wilderness near Estes Park

A pair of anglers holding a large trout in a river.

Spanning over 400 square miles, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts elevations ranging from 7,500 to over 14,000 feet. This diversity in the landscape provides a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black bears. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for these magnificent creatures and smaller species like marmots and pikas.

Rocky Mountain Hiking Adventures

One of the park’s prominent features is its network of hiking trails. With over 350 miles of trails to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy many options. For a more leisurely hike, check out the Bearl Lake Loop, which winds through dense forests and pristine alpine lakes. For a more challenging experience, consider attempting the park’s highest peak, Longs Peak. This strenuous climb requires proper preparation, but the breathtaking views from the summit are well worth the effort.

More Estes Park Outdoor Recreation Opportunities

In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy a range of other outdoor activities in the park. The iconic rivers and lakes provide opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while its meadows and valleys are perfect for picnicking and wildlife watching. Rocky Mountain National Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the snowy months, offering skiing, snowshoeing, and even ice-climbing opportunities!

An Unforgettable Scenic Drive

A car driving along Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Trail Ridge Road is another highlight of the park, offering a scenic drive that traverses the Continental Divide and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet, making it one of the highest paved roads in North America. Along the way, visitors can stop at numerous overlooks and interpretive exhibits to learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.

A Valuable Learning Experience

For those interested in history and culture, Rocky Mountain National Park also offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits. The park’s visitor centers provide information on the park’s natural and cultural resources, while ranger-led programs offer insights into the park’s wildlife, geology, and history.

Estes Park Vacation Rentals + Rocky Mountain National Park

An exterior view of Fall River Village in Estes Park, CO.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise that this Centennial State Gem is among the most beloved national parks in the country.
Now that you have a better idea of what to expect at Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll want to find a place to stay in Estes Park! To learn more about Fall River Village’s vacation rental condos and how to book your stay, please visit us online or call 970-325-6864 today!