A Winter Getaway to YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park
The YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park is just such an easy getaway in Colorado. We’ve been in nearly every season and I would have a hard time picking a favorite.
Winter at the YMCA is the perfect time to take advantage of their indoor activities around the property and winter activities that require gear. (Gear can be borrowed or rented from the YMCA.) I cannot stress enough what an easy winter getaway it is. I love knowing that it only takes a little planning to have a magical time as a family.
The YMCA of the Rockies also offers a daily activity pass if you’re already staying in the area but looking for something to do.
Lodging
The YMCA of the Rockies has cabins and hotel rooms. There are a variety of styles of both cabins and lodge rooms. It’s best to call and see what will suit you best.
The YMCA runs so many deals. Don’t book till you check them all out. They have a great military special that we take advantage of that includes lodging and meals.
Food
We typically eat at the cafeteria since the military deal included meals there. You can also purchase meals at the cafeteria individually.
On our winter visit my parents were with us (and not on the meal deal) so we went into Estes Park for dinner both nights. Estes park is easy to navigate. There is plenty of parking in the winter.
We also took advantage of the cafe in the main building for some breakfasts. They had some simple pastries, yogurts, and coffee drinks including lattes. (What more does a tired mama need?)
YMCA Activities
The YMCA has plenty of free activities to keep you busy for a few days. There are some paid activities that require reservations. A month in advance the YMCA publishes the activity schedule. If you have your heart set on a paid activity (like rock climbing, archery, or the escape room) you should book right away. Activities are typically fully booked by the time you arrive.
Pond Ice Skating
The Pond is located at the YMCA entrance. Skates are signed out at the Sweet Memorial Building. We like to drive down to the pond and park, otherwise, it’s a long and hilly walk back. Try on your skates before you head down. (Again, it’s a long way back to the building to exchange them.) The pond is naturally frozen and beautiful. It’s a bit bumpy.
Sledding Hill
The YMCA of the Rockies at Estes Park has an amazing sledding hill. It is also right by the entrance gate. They have sleds to borrow at the Sweet Memorial building. We also always bring along a few of our own. The hill is steep and you have to walk up, but you can sled nearly back to the parking lot.
Pottery Painting
Painting pottery at the YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park is just one of the many creative activities available at the Craft Center. In addition to pottery painting, visitors can also participate in other arts and crafts, such as beading, woodworking, tie-dye, and painting. The Craft Center is a welcoming and inclusive space that encourages visitors to explore their creativity and learn new skills. The staff at the Craft Center are knowledgeable and supportive, offering guidance and assistance to visitors as they work on their projects.
Sweet Memorial Activity Building
The Sweet Memorial building at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park is the hub of activity and entertainment. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of games and activities, including ping-pong, pool, foosball, and board games. In addition to these indoor activities, the Sweet Memorial building also offers outdoor equipment rentals, such as frisbees, basketballs, and soccer balls.
The Library
The library at the YMCA of the Rockies is a quiet and peaceful space that offers visitors a wide selection of books and other reading materials. With its cozy chairs, fireplace, and large windows overlooking the mountains, the library is the perfect place to curl up with a good book or magazine. In addition to its collection of books, the library also offers puzzles, games, and a variety of educational materials for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read or a fun activity for the family, the library at the YMCA of the Rockies is a great destination. Visitors can also check out books and other materials to take back to their cabins or rooms to enjoy during their stay.
The Longhouse
The Longhouse at the YMCA of the Rockies is a fun-filled destination for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights of the Longhouse is the roller skating rink, where visitors can lace up their skates and glide around the rink to upbeat music. The Longhouse also offers a variety of other activities, such as basketball, volleyball, and floor hockey. Visitors can also take part in arts and crafts activities, such as pottery painting and jewelry making. The Longhouse is a great place for families to spend time together, as it offers activities and games that are both fun and engaging for children and adults alike.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Heading into Rocky Mountain National Park from the YMCA of the Rockies in the winter can be a breathtaking experience. The park is covered in a blanket of snow, creating a winter wonderland that is both serene and stunning. Visitors can take part in a variety of winter activities, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. The park also offers ranger-led snowshoe tours, where visitors can learn about the park’s history and wildlife while exploring the snow-covered landscape. While the winter weather can make some areas of the park inaccessible, many of the park’s trails and roads are still open, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park in winter.
One of our favorite winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park is the Alluvial Fan trail, which offers stunning views of the frozen Horseshoe Falls. The trail is a moderate 0.8-mile hike that is easily accessible from the parking lot near the Fall River Entrance to the park. As visitors hike along the trail, they will be treated to breathtaking views of the frozen falls and the surrounding snow-covered mountains. The trail is well-maintained and features a series of wooden bridges that cross over the rushing waters of the Roaring River. The Alluvial Fan trail is a great option for families or anyone looking for a short, but rewarding hike with stunning winter scenery. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the frozen falls and the surrounding landscape.
Book Your Winter Getaway in Advance
Booking a stay at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park is a popular option, and it is recommended to book as early as possible to secure your preferred dates and accommodations. The easiest way to book is to visit the YMCA of the Rockies website, where you can browse available lodging options and make a reservation online. Alternatively, you can call the reservations team directly, who will be happy to assist with booking or answer any questions you may have. With its range of accommodations, amenities, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, the YMCA of the Rockies is a popular destination, particularly during peak travel seasons. By booking early, you can ensure that you have the best selection of accommodations and dates and can start planning your unforgettable mountain getaway.