How to Find Cheap Hotels in Estes Park, Colorado

Estes Park, in north central Colorado, is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, home of world-class hiking and climbing. With abundant wildlife, great fishing, sightseeing activities and lodgings for every season, Estes Park is a year-round vacation destination for Coloradans and nature-loving visitors.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Instructions

Get By Cheaply in Estes Park

1. Book your accommodations through the Web site of the Estes Park Convention and Visitors Bureau (see Resources below). You can also call [phone] to book. Expect moderate prices.

2. Stick to Big Thompson Avenue for good rooms at cheap rates in Estes Park proper.

3. Select accommodations during off-peak or low-season times for the best rates possible.

4. Check out the Web sites of places you're interested in for Internet-only specials and packages. Many Estes Park locations offer cheap rates for seniors, AAA members and people staying for two nights or more.

5. Look for accommodations just a few miles outside of Estes Park for cheap rates at bed and breakfasts, inns, cabins and ski-style lodges.

Get to Know Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Plan your vacation around one of Estes Park's many seasonal festivals, including Elk Fest in late September/early October; the Scottish/Irish Festival, held annually the weekend after Labor Day; the Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, which coincides yearly with the summer solstice; and the Catch the Glow holiday celebrations in late November through December.

2. Get permits to enter the Rocky Mountain National Park.

3. Bring your pets along on excursions in and around Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, but keep them leashed at all times and be sure to follow the rules for the area.

4. Prepare for high elevations in Colorado with plenty of water, sunscreen and rest, especially while hiking or climbing.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an online booking service to view photos of rooms, lobbies and pool areas before you make a reservation.

• Most cabins and campgrounds in and around Estes Park open in mid-May and remain accessible through October.

• Find pet-friendly inns, cabins, campgrounds, hotels and motels dotted all around Estes Park.

• Accommodations fill quickly during festivals. Check festival dates and book your stay early.

• Peak season in Estes Park changes depending on whether the accommodation is open year-round or not. Places open year-round have a peak season from the beginning of October through the middle of May. Places closed during winter have summer as their peak season. Peak season prices may be twice as high as off-peak prices.

• Many places require a minimum-night stay for specials, during peak season or for family or group accommodations.