Enjoy the best of the Rockies with a stay at each of YMCA of the Rockies’ two unique locations!

• Estes Park Center, Estes Park, CO
• Snow Mountain Ranch, near Winter Park, CO

Stay with us at both locations and enjoy 25% off your stay at the second location! Use the form below to make your reservation request.

Nestled in the Colorado Rockies Mountains, YMCA of the Rockies’ two locations offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes and outdoor experiences in the West. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in a stunning natural setting, these two spots provide a perfect base camp for your adventures.

Here is your plan to visit BOTH locations, connected by the stunning Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park. We planned out a 5-day trip for you!

Snow Mountain Ranch: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Located near Winter Park, Colorado, Snow Mountain Ranch offers an array of activities that cater to all ages. The sprawling 5,100-acre property is perfect for families, solo travelers, and groups looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Accommodations and Amenities
Snow Mountain Ranch offers a variety of lodging options, including cozy cabins, hotel-style lodge rooms, yurts and campsites.

Activities and Adventures
One of the highlights of Snow Mountain Ranch is the extensive range of activities available. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and an aerial challenge course. Winter transforms Snow Mountain Ranch into a snowy wonderland with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing. You can also try out the climbing wall and archery range.

For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Snow Mountain Ranch offers excellent opportunities for simply soaking in the stunning mountain views.

Estes Park Center: Gateway to the Rockies

Estes Park Center is located at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore one of America’s most iconic national parks. In addition to hiking, you can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, fly fishing, an aerial challenge course, crafts and more! YMCA of the Rockies—Estes Park Center is surrounding on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park, meaning it’s just a short drive or hike to the park’s more famous sites, including Bear Lake, Sprague Lake and Alberta Falls.

Accommodations and Amenities
Estes Park Center offers a range of lodging options, from hotel-style lodge rooms to 2-5 bedroom cabins.

Activities and Adventures
Hiking is a major draw, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry routes. Guests can also sign-up for guided hikes and naturalist programs that provide insights into the area’s geology, ecology, and history.

Here is your 5-day itinerary for a trip you won’t forget!

Day 1:

• Check in to your cozy cabin or hotel-style lodge room at Snow Mountain Ranch.
• Take in the views from your windows, deck or balcony and relax – you’re here!
• Explore the property. Highlight destinations: Rowley Homestead, Summer Tubing Hill, Gaylord Reservoir.

Day 2:

• Breakfast from the Buckboard Grill.
• Take a horseback ride with Rocky Mountain Stables.
• Lunch at Schlessman Commons
• Try out the aerial challenge course

Day 3:

• Depart Snow Mountain Ranch for Estes Park via Trail Ridge Road. Take your time driving Trail Ridge Road, there’s a lot to see!
• Check into your accommodations at Estes Park Center and explore the property: discover the library, mountain center, museum, dining hall and more!

Drive through Rocky Mountain National Park on Trail Ridge Road

About a 2-hour drive from Snow Mountain Ranch to Estes Park, you will pass through Grand Lake, a quaint village on the shores of the largest natural lake in Colorado. Then, as you enter Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll embark on a winding, mountain pass that will keep you in awe around every turn. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including, elk, moose, deer and bighorn sheep! Driving Trail Ridge Road is a must-do when visiting the Rocky Mountains.

Notes:

• You’ll need a Park entrance pass and possibly a time-entry permit (if you enter between 9am-2pm.) Learn more here.
• Driving this road is not for the faint of heart! Steep cliffs at elevations of 12,000 feet are common on this 48 mile traverse.
• Be prepared for rapidly changing weather! Rain, snow, sun, hail and wind can all happen within one hour. Dress accordingly.

Stops along the way:

• Holzwarth Historic Site: Learn about the how the Holzwarth family made a home high in the Rocky Mountains in 1917.
• Alpine Visitors Center: Here you’ll find exhibits, a large gift shop, a cafe and unbeatable views from the top!
• Forest Canyon Overlook: This short walk brings some incredible views. You’ll likely see a marmot or two hanging out on the rocks.
• Rainbow Curve: Another view point but facing east this time.

These are just a few suggestions, there are truly endless places to stop along Trail Ridge Road. Find your own adventure!

Day 4:

• • Breakfast at Aspen Dining Room. Enjoy a buffet of various breakfast items from savory selections to sweet treats.
  • Head into Rocky Mountain National Park (with your timed-entry permit and entrance pass) and start with a hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead. Here you’ll find options from a 1 mile loop around Bear Lake to a 4-lake loop at around 4 miles. Many of the most iconic hikes being at this trailhead.
    • Pro-tip: Sign up for a guided hike at the YMCA’s  Mountain Center and you won’t need your own timed=entry permit!
  • Picnic in the park. There are lots of places to stop and enjoy your lunch at a picnic table. Endovalley picnic area is a lovely spot!
  • Head back to the YMCA and check out the craft center. Here you can choose from silk painting to glass fusion to jewelry making.
  • Have dinner at one of Estes Park’s many great restaurants.

Day 5:

• •  Grab a quick bite at the Rustic Cafe before you head out for the day.
  • Take a guided fly fishing trip with Sasquatch Fly Fishing, located in the lower level of the Boone Family Mountain Center.
  • Unwind after your day of adventure with ice cream from the Rustic Cafe, best enjoyed on the Administration Building porch.

We hope this 5-day itinerary offers you the best of Snow Mountain Ranch and Estes Park Center while making unforgettable memories!