Top 5 Fall Adventures

Aspen leaves ablaze with bursts of orange and gold, the haunting call of bull elk as they bugle loudly in search of a mate, and festivals celebrating the change of the seasons. Fall is a magical time of year at YMCA of the Rockies!

Book your getaway today, as weekend cabin stays fill up fast! Take advantage of the perks of a lodge room stay which includes two free breakfasts and is within walking distance of many of our activities. Check cabin and lodge room availability and book now!

There is plenty to do at the YMCA of the Rockies during the fall, including many activities and events. Here are five top five fall things to do this season at the Y:

Learn Something New:

Fall in Estes Park is when the local elk put on a show during the annual elk rut (mating season). Learn the science behind their behavior and get elk 101 basics during our Elk Ecology Class. Find out the answers to why do elk bugle? Why do bull elk spar with other males? In this unique class, participants embark on a casual guided hike to Rocky Mountain National Park while learning interesting information about our famous Estes Park elk. If you have a flexible mid-week schedule, visit us during the week for special adult-focused programming including the master naturalist workshopes, guided nature hikes and much more.

Toss in a Line:

Fall is the best time of year to hit the waters around Estes Park. The water is clear. The creeks and rivers have slowed from their snowmelt runoff. The fish are colorful. The weather, the scenery, and the wildlife is often breathtaking. Learn about the best waters, what flies to use and some fishing etiquette from our staff at the Boone Family Mountain Center. 

Become a Leaf Peeper:

In late September, the aspen leaves turn to a brilliant golden yellow, lighting up mountainsides with fall colors. Pack a backpack and hike up to the YMCA’s Bible Point, where the sweeping views of adjacent Rocky Mountain National Park are perfect for peeping aspen groves. This short hike is free to access and is the perfect distance for a family adventure. Be sure to write your wishes down and bring them with you – a special mailbox is located on the summit that has been collecting hiker’s thoughts and dreams for years.

Create with Fall Colors:

Bring the colors of autumn home by creating a fall themed craft from the Craft & Design Center. Get inspired by aspen to paint pottery or mosaics that recreate the yellow aspen leaves. Make a necklace or earrings with elk antler charms or fun stackable bracelets featuring fall-colored glass beads. Craft & Design Center staff recommend choosing the colors of red wine, avocado and marigold using the “classic mix up” fold to create a fall inspired tie-dye shirt!