When to Go

Most of the ranger-led activities, such as amphitheater programs and guided hikes and walks, occur only during the summer, although a few are scheduled year-round. Some, such as guided snowshoe hikes and cross-country ski tours, obviously take place only when there's snow on the ground.

Late June is usually the best time to see wildflowers, although Colorado columbine and some other flowers continue blooming through August. The elk rutting season from September to mid-October brings hundreds of elk to the lower elevations, where you can often hear the macho bulls bugle and can watch them try to keep other bulls from muscling in on their chosen females. This is also a particularly scenic time, when the aspen trees turn a brilliant gold, producing a delightful contrast with the deep greens of the fir and spruce trees.

There are also a number of seasonal activities that take place just outside the park in the communities of Estes Park and Grand Lake.