Where to Stay by Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular U.S. parks to visit from June to September.  Having gone to CU Boulder, which is about 45 minutes south of Estes Park ~ the major gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park, my friends & I spent a LOT of time exploring this area.  And after watching “The Shining” in our dorm rooms, we were all dying to visit the famous Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, where Stephen King wrote his famous book.  But enough about scary movies!  Let’s talk about where to stay by Rocky Mountain National Park…

This article will focus on accommodations located around Estes Park, & the Park Entrances on the EAST side of the park ~ which is by far the most popular access point for Rocky Mountain National Park.

 

Overview of Hotels in Estes Park

• The Stanley Hotel ($$$) = (Possibly) Haunted Historic Hotel Made Famous by “The Shining:”  The Stanley sits up on a hill & greets you as soon as you enter Estes Park…if you’re driving in from Denver or Boulder.  Dating back to 1909, this historic hotel definitely has a VIBE!  Just 4 miles to Rocky Mountain National Park, they have 2 fine dining restaurants, a whiskey bar with a great ambiance; spa treatments & “Ghost Tours” are also offered!  Great for families, couples, & ghost-hunters : )  Check prices here. 

**Is The Stanley Hotel really haunted??!  I’ve been here three times, & when I went down certain hallways at night ~ especially in areas with writing desks near windows, I DEFinitely felt a strange energy!  But you can take their “Haunted Tour” to find out yourself…

• Estes Park Resort & Spa  ($$$) = Family-Friendly, 4-Star Lakefront Resort:  Set right in Estes Park, on the shores of Lake Estes, this is a great spot for a family trip: boat rentals are available, & there’s a beach where kids can play & swim.  Many rooms have mountain views + balconies; suites add private bedrooms + whirlpool tubs & fireplaces.  There’s a restaurant on-site, but you’re also close to restaurants in town; Rocky Mountain National Park is just 5 miles away.  Check prices here.
• Murphy’s Resort  ($$) = Affordable Family-Friendly, 3-Star Hotel with Lake Views:  Located near Estes Park Resort with views of Lake Estes, this is more like a regular motel ~ with a cheaper price tag than other hotels in town.  About 5 miles from Rocky Mountain’s Park Entrance: there’s an outdoor pool here, kid’s pool, hot tub, playground, BBQ grills, picnic tables, & ping-pong tables…so a great spot for family activities!  Room are a bit dated, but comfortable.
• Riversong Inn Retreat ($$$) = Adults-Only B&B Just 2 Miles from Rocky Mountain National Park:  This special B&B is set on 26 wooded acres along the Big Thompson River: great if you’re into fishing!  Each of their 10 rooms is unique, breakfasts are delicious, & there are hiking trails to enjoy right from the hotel.  This is a great spot for active couples who want to spend as much time outdoors as possible!  Check prices here.
• Taharaa Mountain Lodge  ($$$) = Adults-Only Lodge with VIEWS + Wellness Center:  Sitting just a few miles outside of Estes Park, against lovely Lily Mountain: Taharaa is a great place for a romantic mountain getaway ~ that still puts you just about 15 minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park.  Rooms are spacious with incredible views; a full breakfast is provided, + there’s an outdoor hot tub, evening happy hour, & massages/sauna.  Great for couples!

“An elegant & memorable 8th Anniversary escape.  Our stay at Taharaa Mountain Lodge was nothing short of exceptional, & the perfect setting to celebrate.  The location is ideal — private and tranquil, yet just minutes from Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park.” 

 

– Reginald

 

Map of Hotels in Estes Park

Best Family Hotels by Rocky Mountain National Park

Check prices at lakefront Estes Park Resort & Spa.

 

Photos of Murphy’s Resort at Estes Park

“We had such a wonderful time for a few days [at Murphy’s Resort] celebrating our baby’s1st birthday! We were pleasantly pleased with our stay! The staff were all so friendly ~ everyone seemed genuinely happy to be working here, and our room had everything we needed.

 

We loved having our golden retriever along and welcomed with treats at the front desk! ” 

 

– Shannon McCool

Where to Stay by Rocky Mountain National Park!

I’ve written a TON about Colorado since it’s where I went to school & a place I’ve spent a lot of time!  You can check out my other articles on great ski resorts in Vail, where to apres-ski in Breckenridge, or even great hotels in Colorado Springs for checking out some of the state’s amazing fall colors….

 

xoxo Noelia

Read Next: Where Do Celebrities Stay in Aspen?