danny9948

Hi,

My parents and my 2 little ones (3 &5) are planning a trip to RMNP in the next 3 weeks.
We plan on driving with a overnight stay in Amarillo and then in Colorado Spring. Any suggestions on timing are welcome.

1. What is the best place to stay in RMNP if we are not camping?
2. Any recommendations on things to do in Denver?
3. Any recommendations on where to stay in Colorado Springs?

Also any suggestions on where to go in RNMP would be greatly appreciated. We love the scenic beauty.

spirobulldog

1. Do you want to stay on Estes Park side or Grand Lake side. I like Estes, but my sister and brother n law prefer Grand Lake side. Personally, I like Stanley Hotel(at least have a meal there).

Since you have a 3 and 5 year old, I suggest making a stop coming or going at Great Sand Dunes National Park. The sand can be very hot in the summertime and it is often windy(sometimes). I suggest going in the morning as early as possible.

3. Broadmoor Hotel is my pick. I can also be content at a Holiday Inn Express or LaQuinta. I guess it depends on your budget and what you are wanting.

WhereAreWe

1) There are some private cottages/cabins inside RMNP but they book up way in advance from people that go back year after year. So if you aren't camping, you are going to have to stay outside the park in Estes or Grand Lake. I'd suggest Estes because there is more to do in town and the more dramatic scenery is on that side. But if you want a more laid back vacation, then Grand Lake is the better bet.

There's a lot of threads on here about RMNP geared specifically to people that want easier hikes and/or families with small children. I'd say do a search of the forums to get some ideas and then ask more specific questions if you are stuck about where to go and what to do in RMNP.

How much time do you have there?

danny9948

Thanks. My total trip would be about 7 nights. 1 night/2 days in Colorado Springs, 3-4 days in Estes/RMNP.

Bitter

It's been a year or so ago, but we really liked the Mining Exchange Hotel in CO springs (a Wyndam hotel?). Some doors (including a maids quarters) were "safe" doors. It was nicely furnished.

wave725

We usually stay at the Woodlands on Fall River in Estes Park -more of a condo style lodging with full kitchens. Several other lodgings which are nice are Riverwood on Fall River, Rams Horn Resort and Tahara Mountain Lodge.

http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails...mmodations.htm

Be sure to keep the kids (and yourselves) well hydrated since you'll be staying at elevation.

Spend half a day making the scenic drive across Trail Ridge Road. There is a visitor's center at the top which has restrooms, gift shop and snack shop to take a break.