Estes Park is a great resource for things to do in Estes Park. The past few summers we would come out here for a few weeks and spend most of our time hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. We took an occasional walk part way around Lake Estes and thoroughly enjoyed the view; we didn’t really know the expanse of resources Lake Estes has to offer.
 
When I was out here in April for my spring vacation, we walked around the lake with friends, relishing its beauty and thinking it was the perfect place to walk off-season. By the end of the week, we were going there every day to see the beginning of the incredible bird migration. In that short amount of time, we saw so many species of birds at the Matthew Reeser Bird Sanctuary and the nearby shrubs and trees. If you haven’t tried bird-watching, try it here in Estes Park in May. You’ll be amazed. If you are fortunate to see some of members the Estes Park Bird Club, they will gladly help you identify any of the birds that can’t identify. As you walk around the lake, the views are just spectacular... Lumpy Ridge, Long’s Peak, Hallett, Flattop….mountains everywhere. Lake Estes is a great fishing spot for many fisherman. On one side, people are fishing from the shore of the lake or the Big Thompson River. On the other side, you can drive right up to the water to fish or picnic. There are many picnic tables available, too. There is a special handicapped dock for those who have are disabled. As you walk down toward the Marina, you can see where you can rent bike, tandem bikes, and pedal carts which are really cool for the family. Many people use the Lake Estes Trail as part of their bike route. It’s fairly flat with one hill over on the Mall Road side. There are also restrooms, a drinking fountain, drinks, and snacks at or near the Marina. This is great so you don’t have to bring extra water, if you don’t want to.
 
The Marina also rents fishing boats (and fishing licenses), rowboats, kayaks, double kayaks and pontoons. The line to rent boats on a summer’s day is incredible….and constantly changing. If you own a boat, as we own 2 kayaks, you can buy a season’s pass and go out any time you want! There is nothing more peaceful than to hear your paddle lapping on the water as you stroke though on a calm, still morning. Kris & Gary from the Estes Park NEWS have recently purchased a canoe and when we see them, we can tell when they have recently paddled…. as they have a big smile on their face.
 
Beyond the Marina is a pavilion that can be rented for weddings, reunions, family gatherings, etc. You can check out the white board to see who is using it that day. The back part of the lake is much more sheltered. It is a bit warm in the heat of a summer’s day, but perfect in the cool morning or evening or when the wind is blowing. Ground squirrels are scurrying around ducking into their little holes. You can see the huge volume of water that is released by the dam. As you walk across the small bridge, you can see the river churning and many people taking “fly-fishing” lessons. There are always people there trying to catch a fish while they are practicing their graceful technique. On occasion, a rollerblader will skate by. You really need to know how to stop on the hilly side! Lake Estes is certainly a great place to see in Estes Park. There are so many different things to do, or nothing to do if you wish. You can take a short stroll or an invigorating jog, or just sit on a bench and take it all in….just another part of paradise.
 
In the fall, the Lake Estes is a great place, too. The fall migration is also a special place for all birders and activity motivated people. You will probably pass by some elk during your activities. Just remember that the elk are wild animals and don’t approach them if they are nearby.