Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are both spectacular for so many reasons. The mountains show different personalities when the clouds blanket them. Elk stroll around like they own the place. 
Well, they kinda do.

Nature dominates here. Studies show that spending time in nature is beneficial for so many reasons. Nature benefits our mental and physical health. Taking in a deep breath here fills our lungs with wonderful, clean mountain air. Our senses become more aware in nature leading to heightened awareness and a deeper connection with our surroundings.

After a fun day full of activity, taking a few minutes to sit and be still, soaking in what’s all around us helps calm the nerves and our bodies’ rhythms.

Some people are not used to the quiet, and it can be unnerving not to hear much of anything. It may take some time to be comfortable with the quiet and its benefits. Embrace being uncomfortable and take some time to soak in the quiet.

Studies also show that unplugging from our devices is incredibly beneficial to our mental health as well. We live in such a busy world with often non-stop chatter: swipes, rings, and pop-ups. A digital detox is so good to do, especially on vacation! Find stimulation in an activity here rather than scrolling.

The night sky can be unreal. The dry mountain air and lack of light pollution allows for up to 2,500 more stars to be seen than are visible in a larger city. We are looking at the same sky that Indigenous Peoples looked at thousands of years ago. That can cause one to be reflective.

We were restocking books at one of the state visitor centers, and we were met with such excitement when they said to me “We just love your book. It’s better than Google!”

I work with all of the groups, Rocky Mountain National Park, and advertisers in this guide when putting each new edition together. I have
built solid relationships with them and have earned their trust to present information that is accurate and up-to-date.

This guide has some great tips from digging into what is needed for a great visit to this area to being respectful of the land and wildlife.

I hope you take the time to enjoy the wonderful surroundings here and really dive into this guide. You don’t need cell service to read it (and
cell service in the mountains is often spotty). I hope as the reader, you too will find this guide better than Google.