Is it really a hassle to stay in Boulder and drive to Estes Park (Family Reunion)for a long weekend the end of July? Haven't found anything that looks decent in Estes(that's avail.), but seems more choices in Boulder. Any hotel recommendations in either area? $150.00 + is ok.

Bob,
We always stay at the Omni Interlocken in Boulder. It's actually in Louisville but I think of it as Boulder. The Omni is just a flat out great hotel and you'll stay well under your $150.00 range. If you can sneak away from the relatives for an evening, go to Bloom restaurant in the Flatiron Crossing mall complex.

Bob:
Teresa really didn't answer your question. It is very easy to base yourself in Boulder and drive to Estes. Good road, sometimes a little busy, but beautiful scenery. To be honest, there are just a few really good motels in Estes anyway IMO, most are overpriced dumps that lure out of state tourists with beautiful brochures. I live in So. Colorado and every couple of years find myself staying in Estes with the old lady and the kids, saying I'll never do it again.

But how long (hrs/mins) is the drive from Boulder to Estes? I, too, am having a hard time finding appropriate lodging in Estes and would like to know if this is a real possibility (staying in Boulder) or not. I should say that I have to be in Estes most of the day for everyday of our stay, so time and road conditions are of an essence. Thanks!

Bob & Lori,

Jim is right: Boulder is a perfectly fine place to base yourself for driving to Estes Park. The drive between is under forty miles and generally takes about an hour.

I also agree with Jim's assessment of most of Estes Park's accomodations. The good ones are few and far between and generally overpriced. One exception that comes to mind is the Tahara Lodge located on a hill overlooking Estes. It's a very nice B&B and just a stone's throw from town.

Hope this helps,

Davidcs

Bob: We stayed at the Mapleton Hill B&B in Boulder near the Pearl Street Mall. Perfect location, reasonably priced, & only about 45-60 minute drive to Estes Park. Well worth it.

You can also check in Loveland/Fort Collins area along 1 25 for your standard Comfort Inn type lodging. And did you check YMCA of the Rockies-Sestes Park?