Best Lodging Options in Rocky Mountain National Park


RMNP Best Lodging Options

Staying for more than a day in Rocky Mountain National Park means that you’ll have to look for overnight accommodation. As you may know, you can only spend the night in the park on campgrounds and wilderness campsites, for there are no operational hotels, cabins, or lodges inside the park boundaries.

If you’re planning a trip to the national park, we definitely recommend that you stay for more than one day. There are lots of trails to hike, mountains to climb, and wildlife to spot, which is why you’ll definitely need a couple of days to enjoy a full Rocky Mountain National Park experience.

In this article, we’ll be sharing with you the best lodging options in Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re looking for hotels, cabins, or inns, we’ve got you covered.

 

The Gateway Communities of Rocky Mountain National Park

As we mentioned earlier, there are no accommodation options inside the park aside from camping. If camping is not your thing, there are multiple accommodation options available in Estes Park and Grand Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park’s gateway communities.

Estes Park

Also known as Colorado’s Original Playground, Estes Park is known as the base camp for Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is located only 15 minutes away from the eastern side of the park, a very appealing perk for visitors.

If you decide to stay in Estes Park for your trip, make sure to reserve a day or two to explore this mountain town. There are a multitude of activities that you can do, which range from canoeing in Lake Estes to enjoying a craft beer after a full day of hiking.

Estes Park boasts of both natural and cultural activities. The town is surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Rocky Mountains and animal sightings are common as well. If you’re a sucker for breathtaking views but not a fan of possibly strenuous activities, ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for an easy journey to the top. If enjoying water activities is your thing, head over to Lake Estes to go fishing, kayaking, or paddle-boarding. Embark on the Riverwalk to enjoy the sound of babbling brooks in the heart of downtown Estes Park.

Downtown Estes Park is the place to be if you’re looking for a cultural getaway. Independently owned businesses fill this area, which guarantees a unique and memorable retail experience. Participate in a multitude of outdoor downtown activities such as jazz concerts, cowboy sing-a-longs, and wine tastings. Make sure to keep an eye out for elks and artists, both of which are equally abundant in this area. At the end of a long day, head over to one of the town’s local restaurants to enjoy good food, paired with a locally made wine or your favorite Colorado craft beer.

What makes Estes Park a premium choice for visitors of Rocky Mountain National Park is its proximity. As an added bonus, the town offers a myriad of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Coupled with a nature trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, a visit to Estes Park is truly a memorable getaway.

 

From amazing sights to challenging hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park has a lot to offer to its visitors. If you’re planning a trip to this amazing location, here is everything you need to know about Rocky Mountain National Park.

 

Grand Lake

Also known as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is a charming town located along the shores of Colorado’s largest natural lake of the same name.  A designated Certified Colorado Creative District, Grand Lake, is perfect for those looking for a nature adventure paired with an amazing experience of the arts unique to the area.

Similar to Estes Park, it is recommended to set a few days aside to explore Grand Lake if you decide to stay in this area. Grand Lake has its own charm that will surely make you fall in love.

In the summer, cool off with various aquatic activities in Grand Lake. The Grand Lake Marina offers various boat rentals to suit your every need. For a more chill exploration, you can opt to use a canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or stand-up paddleboard. The lake is also a perfect spot for fishing, even in winter.

Grand Lake transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow sets in. Dubbed as the, “Snowmobiling Capital of Colorado,” Grand Lake offers access to over 300 miles of snow covered trails. Snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, wildlife viewing, ice fishing, ice skating, and downhill skiing are the other activities that you can enjoy in winter.

Aside from the town’s nature attractions, visitors flock to Grand Lake to experience its unique creative side. Catch a show at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre to experience Broadway in the mountains. Take a stroll on the Grand Lake Boardwalk along Grand Avenue to admire the town’s wild west style architecture. Don’t forget to visit the shops in this area as well, to score unique souvenirs, local artworks, good food, and great experiences.

Grand Lake may be small, but the experiences that it offers are definitely great. A stay in this town during your visit to the Rocky Mountain National Park will definitely be an experience to remember.

Where should you stay? 

Both of the gateway communities of Rocky Mountain National Park offer unique and enticing activities that you can enjoy during your stay. The problem is, how will you choose where you should stay during your trip?

The most practical way to decide where you will be staying is depending on the activities that you plan on doing in Rocky Mountain National Park. Both towns are located on opposite sides of the park, Estes Park on the east and Grand Lake on the west.

If you plan to explore the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, it will be more practical for you to find lodging options in Estes Park. If you’re planning on exploring the west side of the park, you should look for lodging options in Grand Lake instead.

The remaining question is which lodging option should you choose once you select your favored town. To make your life easier, here are several of the best lodging options in both Estes Park and Grand Lake, based on (1) their proximity to the park, (2) their price point, (3) their accommodation capacity, and (4) their scenic location.

 

Best Hotels, Lodging, and Accommodations in Estes Park

By Proximity

Make the most of your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park by cutting down on travel time to and from your place of accommodation. You want to spend as much time as you can exploring the park and enjoying the wonderful scenery, not in a car stuck in traffic.

Here are some of the best hotels and accommodations that are only a few minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park.

Alpine Trail Ridge Inn

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (heated, outdoor)
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

First on the list is the Alpine Trail Ridge Inn, a seasonal motel, which is located only 5 minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park. The town proper of Estes Park is only 10 minutes away by car and the Macgregor Ranch Museum is only 8km away from the property.

Amenities for air-conditioned rooms include a cable TV, microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities. Bathrooms are equipped with a hair dryer. The inn boasts of a heated outdoor pool with amazing views of the Rockies. If you’re not into swimming, you can still enjoy the great views by chilling around a fire pit. Each room is also equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi. The parking is free as well.

What most visitors loved about this place, aside from its proximity to the national park, is that it’s close to a restaurant, a grocery store, and a gas station. Talk about convenience! The cleanliness of the place is praised by guests as well. What we love about this place is that from the outside, the look of the place is not that enticing but on the inside, we were surprised to see that the rooms were recently renovated so definitely; don’t judge a book by its cover.

Since this is an older motel, don’t expect the rooms and en suite bathrooms to be ultra spacious. They can be on the smaller side, especially if you’re travelling with a big party. It wasn’t a problem for us because it added to the cozy atmosphere of the place. Not all the rooms have balconies so definitely reserve in advance if you want that perk.

We found that for its price, a stay at the Alpine Trail Ridge Inn is definitely a bang for our buck. Comfy rooms, mountain views, and its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park will definitely make you want to stay in this place again; we know that we will.

Beaver Brook on the River

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No
Cable TV: Yes

Located on a private stretch of the Big Thompson River, Beaver Brook on the River is only 5 minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park and downtown Estes Park. It is said that the world-renowned elk herds of Estes Park are often nearby, if not on the property.

Amenities of this two-bedroom townhouse include a fireplace and flat screen TV in the living room, a full kitchen, a washing machine and tumble dryer, and a hair dryer and bathrobes for the bathrooms. On the balcony, you’ll find two hot tubs where you can admire the mountain views and soak away your fatigue from a tiring day of exploration in the Rockies. The Wi-Fi and parking are free as well.

Guests praised the place’s cleanliness and amazing staff. The kitchen is also well liked for being well equipped. The location, of course, is a major selling point for us. Aside from being close to Rocky Mountain National Park, the town house is close to Estes Park as well, with the added bonus of not having to deal with downtown traffic.

If you’re looking for an accommodation option with air-conditioning, this place is not for you. The units in this property are not equipped with an AC. It was not a big deal for us because you can just open the windows and let the cool mountain air in, which is a luxury in my book.

The amenities of Beaver Brook on the River are definitely one of its major selling points. Coupled with amazing views of the mountains and the Big Thompson River, an exceptional and very hands-on staff, and its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, we believe that this place is definitely one of the best accommodation options in this area.

Wildwood Inn

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: Yes (select rooms only)
Cable TV: Yes

We definitely loved the juxtaposition of Rocky Mountain National Park and Wildwood Inn’s full service spa. We didn’t have to worry about being too sore from various mountain activities because we can always recharge our bodies when we get back to our inn.

Amenities of all holiday homes include free Wi-Fi, a hot tub, a fireplace, a cable TV with a DVD player, and an en suite bathroom. The kitchen is fully equipped! It has  a dishwasher, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a stovetop. A full service spa and sauna is available on site, as well as a fitness center and a business center. BBQ facilities are also provided.

Guests absolutely love this place, from its amenities to its amazing staff. The location is definitely a plus, with the property being only a few minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park and downtown Estes Park. Another thing that we loved about the location are the amazing views and the possibility of spotting wildlife, especially by the creek. The hot tubs are also a guest favorite.

Similar to Beaver Brook on the River, some of the rooms in the Wildwood Inn are not air-conditioned. You can always enjoy the mountain air so it’s not too much of a bother for us. If you want an AC, make sure to book a room that’s equipped with one.

If you’re looking for a cozy and comfortable place to stay for your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, we recommend checking out Wildwood Inn. Located in a prime location and equipped with amazing amenities, we didn’t regret staying here for our trip and I’m sure you won’t too.

 

By Price Point

You can be on a budget and still enjoy quality accommodation. Finding the perfect place requires doing careful research. Lucky for you, we already did the research. Here are the top accommodations in Estes Park that offer excellent value at great prices.

Blue Door Inn

Breakfast: Yes (continental)
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (outdoor, seasonal)
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

Surrounded by gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains and featuring a seasonal outdoor pool, the Blue Door Inn is perfect for us because of its price and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The amenities of each room in the Blue Door Inn include a flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, and an en suite bathroom. For kitchen amenities, there are coffee-making facilities, a microwave, and a refrigerator in each room. Select rooms offer a spa bath. In the morning, a free continental breakfast is offered for all guests. For outdoor entertainment, the inn has a seasonal outdoor pool and a basketball court. Guests can also play shuffleboard, corn hole, and horseshoes on site. Picnic tables and barbecue facilities are available for use as well.

Guests absolutely love the hot tubs in the Blue Door Inn. The staff is well loved as well because they are friendly and very attentive to the needs of their guests. The property is also praised for its cleanliness. The free breakfast is a great bonus as well. We definitely enjoyed the superb amenities and activities that you can do at this inn.

Considering the price, a stay at the Blue Door Inn is definitely worth it. You get to stay in a clean and comfortable room with amazing views, you won’t run out of activities to do, you get free breakfast, and you will be assisted by an amazing staff. For us, the Blue Door Inn is definitely one of the top budget friendly inns near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Discovery Lodge

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No
Cable TV: Yes

Travelling with your best furry companion is always fun until you need to find a place to stay that allows animals. If you’re headed to Rocky Mountain National Park, check out the Discovery Lodge, a pet friendly and budget friendly hotel in Estes Park.

Guest room amenities include pine furnishings, a private entrance, and a seating area. Rooms are also equipped with a small fridge, free Wi-Fi, and free toiletries. The patios offer a sweeping view of the Continental Divide.

The lodge is located on 5 acres of natural lands. A catch and release trout pond can be found on site. You and your dog can also access multiple hiking trails directly from the property. If you want to enjoy a lazy afternoon, a hot tub is provided for your relaxation. An outdoor dining experience is also available in the form of barbecue facilities with picnic tables and a gazebo.

The location of the hotel is definitely appreciated. Rocky Mountain National Park is only a 10-minute drive away and downtown Estes Park is only a few minutes away on foot. The surroundings and views of the lodge are superb and the animal sightings provide an added bonus. The staff is very friendly as well.

The Discovery Lodge offers great value and a great location. The surroundings of the hotel are amazing and it’s very close to both Rocky Mountain National Park and downtown Estes Park. This is definitely one of the best pet friendly and budget friendly hotels in the area.

Coyote Mountain Lodge

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (outdoor)
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

Being one of the most affordable accommodation options in Estes Park, Coyote Mountain Lodge should definitely be considered if you’re planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The rooms of the lodge are log cabin-inspired, styled with thick light wood furnishings and contemporary plush linens. The Wi-Fi and parking are both free. An outdoor pool and hot tub are also available for guests to enjoy. Location-wise, the hotel is only a 10-minute drive away from Rocky Mountain National Park.

We absolutely loved the comfortable beds. After a long day of hiking and exploring, head back to Coyote Mountain Lodge to relax in the pool or hot tub and sleep comfortably in an amazingly plush bed. The rooms are clean and the staff members are very friendly as well.

The rooms, as well as the bathrooms, are a bit on the smaller side in this property. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but do consider that if you’re travelling with a huge party. The breakfast options were not that good but take this as a chance to explore eating places in Estes Park, in order to turn the situation around.

The best selling points of the Coyote Mountain Lodge are its price and proximity to the park. The amenities are worth the visit as well. We definitely recommend this hotel for your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park.

 

By Capacity (Group lodging)

Travelling is always extra fun if you’re with amazing company, be it your group of friends from college or your family. The thing is, it’s extra hard to find suitable accommodation for a huge party, more so if you’re travelling with children. For your family trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, these places are top tier and can definitely handle your huge company.

Murphy’s River Lodge

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (indoor, heated)
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

A standard family room at Murphy’s River Lodge can fit up to 6 persons. This riverside lodge is only a 5-minute walk from the town center of Estes Park and 3.1 miles away from Rocky Mountain National Park.

Room amenities include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, microwave, and tea and coffee making facilities. All rooms are temperature controlled and select rooms are equipped with fireplaces and decks with river views. On-site BBQ facilities are also available as well as a guest launderette. For relaxation, the lodge has an indoor heated pool and a hot tub. The lodge also serves a free daily continental breakfast for its guests.

We absolutely loved the location of the lodge, both for its proximity to the town proper and the beautiful surroundings of the river. The rooms are also very clean and comfortable. The staff members were amazing and are greatly praised by other guests as well. Of course, the pool and the hot tub were greatly appreciated.

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay with your family for your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, we definitely recommend that you check out Murphy’s River Lodge. You get to stay near a river and who knows, you might even spot some wildlife during your stay.

Silver Moon Inn

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (outdoor, seasonal)
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

The Silver Moon Inn offers a variety of rooms that can fit up to 7 people. Located on the banks of the Fall River, this hotel is only 3.7 miles away from Rocky Mountain National Park.

Room amenities include a flat-screen TV, a microwave, and a refrigerator. Select rooms are equipped with fireplaces. Free Wi-Fi is also provided in each air-conditioned room. A continental breakfast is served daily and there are BBQ facilities on site. A seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub are also available for guest use. The parking is free and a guest launderette is available.

The location of the inn is definitely well-liked. Situated on the banks of the Fall River, the hotel is surrounded by magnificent views. There are varied seating options near the river, where you can laze and appreciate nature. We definitely loved the inn’s proximity to town and to Rocky Mountain National Park. The place was very clean and the staff was very friendly, sentiments that are shared by previous guests as well.

If you’re looking for accommodation options for your group that is located in a convenient and scenic spot, we definitely recommend Silver Moon Inn. Previous guests enjoyed their stay there and I’m sure that you will, too.

Appenzell Inn

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

Large groups of travellers will definitely love staying at the Appenzell Inn, which can accommodate 8 persons in their biggest unit. The inn is located just 3.7 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park and 1.1 miles from Estes Park Village.

The Appenzell Inn is a nonsmoking Swiss inspired hotel so expect uniquely decorated rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. Select suites are equipped with a kitchenette, fireplace, or spa bath.

The inn boasts of an expansive garden with two waterfall ponds. A picnic and BBQ area is available as well. Outdoor activities include an on-site walking  and hiking trail, and there are snowshoeing opportunities located nearby.

Guests loved their stay at the Appenzell Inn. The overall look and comfort of the rooms were a huge plus. The amenities and amazing staff were also appreciated. The overall feel of the place was quaint and serene, a perfect combination with the refreshing mountain air and stunning views. We definitely loved this place and I’m sure that you will too.

Although we absolutely love the place, it does have its negatives. The parking is a bit hard to navigate, especially if you have a bigger vehicle. Sometimes, the place is a bit difficult to navigate as well so keep an eye out for the signs so that you won’t get lost.

The Appenzell Inn is definitely a great place to stay at if you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, whether you’re travelling solo or with a group. We found that staying here is a great value for our money, considering the inn’s location and amenities.

 

By Scenic Locations

You’ll definitely get your fill of scenic locations in your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. Continue the trend of breathtaking landscapes and stunning views to your place of accommodation. Here are some of the best scenically located accommodation options in Estes Park.

Rams Horn Village Resort

Breakfast: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes (outdoor)
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

No matter what season you visit in, you’ll absolutely fall in love with the surroundings of the Rams Horn Village Resort; we know we did. Surrounded by mountains, this lodge is only 2.3 km away from the Beaver Meadow Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The amenities in each unit include a patio, a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, a sitting area with a sofa, a TV, and a private bathroom with a hot tub and hairdryer. Sadly, this place does not have air conditioning. The resort village offers various wellness facilities, including a fitness center and a community hot tub. On site, there is a playground for children and a grill if you want to have BBQ.

The beauty of the Ram Horn Village Resort cannot be fully expressed by photos. We were surprised with how stunning the place and its surrounding is. The multitude of activities that you can do there are superb, along with the amenities that they offer. Guests also loved the friendly and accommodating staff. It’s also very close to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The place is so serene and peaceful. If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot some wildlife roaming around the property. The Rams Horn Village Resort is definitely a beautiful and amazing place to stay at. We will definitely stay there again.

The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

This picture perfect inn on the banks of Fall River was built on land that was once within the original boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park. The experience of resting and relaxing, while being surrounded by nature, the trees, the crystal clear stream, and the mountains, is definitely an experience that we loved.

All guest rooms at the inn are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat screen TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. Some rooms have seating areas and fireplaces. Not all of the units have a river view so keep that in mind if you’re planning on staying in this property. Communal amenities include a lounge, a garden, and a BBQ area. A playground can also be found on site.

The location and ambience of The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins is definitely a winner. Nothing beats being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the river after a tiring day. The rooms are very homey and comfortable; the staff members were amazing as well. Guests absolutely love the surroundings of the property, the river is only a short walk away and they also have their own trail that can be explored. The location is very convenient as well because it’s close to Rocky Mountain National Park and downtown Estes Park.

One thing that is not quite perfect in this place is the Wi-Fi. It’s not that reliable because the signal is very weak, sometimes non-existent. The phone service is not that good either but that goes with being in the mountains. You can just do as we did to turn this situation around; take time to enjoy nature and disconnect.

We really have nothing but praises for The Inn on Fall River and Fall River Cabins. It was an experience that we will definitely cherish. The Inn is always striving to improve so your stay might be even better than ours.

4 Seasons Inn on Fall River

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Another inn located on the banks of the scenic Fall River. 4 Seasons Inn on Fall River is located a mere 5-minute drive away from Rocky Mountain National Park.

Amenities for all rooms include free Wi-Fi, a microwave, a small refrigerator, and a coffee maker. Select rooms include a kitchenette or a personal outdoor hot tub. A community hot tub is located on the inn’s expansive sun terrace for all guests to enjoy. BBQ facilities are available. Guests can enjoy fly fishing on site, but it comes with additional charges.

Similar to The Inn on Fall River and Fall River Cabins, the scenery surrounding 4 Seasons Inn on Fall River is breathtaking. There is a feeling of remoteness when you’re there but at the same time, you still have the convenience of being near downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. We recommend sitting by the river for a peaceful moment to just take in the scenery and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The rooms are very clean and the staff is amazing as well.

This property does not have air conditioning so expect that you’ll need to open windows during warmer seasons. The mountain air and sounds of the river will make you feel like you’re out camping in the wilderness, when in truth; you’re comfortably resting on a plush bed. This is an adult-only property so if you’re travelling with children, this is not the inn for you.

What we love about this property is that it’s very quiet and comfortable. You can easily enjoy an afternoon just sitting by the river feeling peaceful. The location is amazing as well, both scenery and proximity wise. We definitely recommend checking out 4 Seasons Inn on Fall River if you’re planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.

 

Best Hotels, Lodging, and Accommodations in Grand Lake

Grand Lake is located on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Compared to Estes Park, Grand Lake is smaller and has lesser accommodation options. Despite that, a stay in Grand Lake is still definitely worth while.

Due to the number of available accommodations, we only listed lodging options based on their proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, their price point, and their scenic location.

By Proximity

Spirit Lake Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

The Spirit Lake Lodge is located only one kilometer away from Rocky Mountain National park. Grand Lake is only a 5-minute walk from the property. If proximity to the national park is a top priority for you, we recommend checking out this property.

All rooms have the following amenities: free Wi-Fi, a sitting area, tea and coffee making facilities, a cable TV, and a private bathroom. Suites are equipped with fireplaces and flat-screen TVs. A community hot tub is available for guests to enjoy. In winter, you can go snowmobiling on the snowmobile trails located on the property.

For us, the best selling point of the Spirit Lake Lodge is its location. It’s close to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, and the town proper, including Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre. Don’t forget to catch a show when you visit, to experience Broadway in the mountains. Guests attest to the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms and the staff members are nice as well.

There is no breakfast served at this place so you’ll have to go someplace else for it. Just take this as an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine. Some rooms are on the smaller side and the same goes for the bathrooms.

We recommend checking out Spirit Lake Lodge if you’re looking for an accommodation option in Grand Lake that is close to Rocky Mountain National Park. The property is also close to prime locations in Grand Lake, essentially hitting two birds with one stone.

The Historic Rapids Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Located adjacent to the Tonahutu River, The Historic Rapids Lodge is only a 10-minute drive to Rocky Mountain National Park. The lodge has its own on-site restaurant and Grand Lake is only 5 minutes away from the property on foot.

Room amenities include a TV, private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer, and free Wi-Fi. Various outdoor activities can be enjoyed in areas surrounding the property such as skiing, boating, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Rocky Mountain National Park is just around the corner and Estes Park is 47 miles away via the scenic and seasonal Trail Ridge Road.

We absolutely loved the location of The Historic Rapids Lodge. The property is close to two bodies of water, the Tonahutu River next door and Grand Lake. Grand Avenue can also be easily accessed from this location so exploring the town center was a breeze. Of course, it was also close to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The on-site restaurant serves amazing food that you should definitely check out. The rooms are very clean and the staff is friendly and accommodating. The Wi-Fi signal is not the best, but it’s bearable. There are no ACs in this property. By virtue of the weather in this area, most accommodations don’t have air conditioning.

All in all, we’d say that The Historic Rapids Lodge is a good place to stay at if you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park via Grand Lake. The location is the best selling point for us, but the amenities and amazing staff seal the deal.

Grand Lake Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

The Grand Lake Lodge boasts of amazing views of Grand Lake that you can enjoy while relaxing on porch swings. If you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s only about 0.8 km away from the property.

The rooms of the lodge are in full or duplex cabins, which are spread throughout the property. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a cable TV, a refrigerator, a microwave and free toiletries and a hair dryer for the bathroom. There is a pool and hot tub available on site for guests to enjoy. They also have a restaurant on site that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The property is located in a very scenic location, just in front of Grand Lake. Being surrounded by woods and a lake will definitely put anyone at ease. The overall feel of the place was comfortable and homey. If you want, you can even celebrate your big day there. The restaurant serves amazing food that is praised by previous guests as well. The staff is also nice and accommodating.

Booking a room at the Grand Lake Lodge is not that cheap. The rooms/cabins are on the small side, and so are the bathrooms too. The rooms are not equipped with an AC and sometimes; the heating can be pretty patchy. All in all, the experience was still good, the rooms were nice and cozy and the location was great.

Being able to admire the mountains and Grand Lake from the comfort of a porch swing is definitely an experience. Even though the price for booking a room there is pricier than other accommodation options available in the area, we still think that a stay at the Grand Lake Lodge was definitely worth our time and money.

 

Rocky Mountain National Park is a treasure trove of amazing activities to do and breathtaking sights to see. We definitely recommend a multi-day visit to the park so that you’ll be able to enjoy everything that it has to offer. Get a jumpstart on your planning and check out our itineraries for the ultimate trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

 

By Price Point

Bighorn Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: Yes 
Cable TV: Yes

Americas Best Value Inn – Bighorn Lodge is a budget friendly hotel in Grand Lake that is minutes away from prime locations such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake Art Gallery, and Grand Lake Golf Course.

Room amenities include free Wi-Fi, a cable TV, a microwave, a refrigerator, and coffee making facilities. Each room is classically furnished and includes a sitting area and both air conditioning and a ceiling fan.

The biggest asset of this place is its location. It’s only minutes away from Rocky Mountain National Park and you can also easily access the rest of Grand Lake. It’s a log cabin style inn that is as basic as it gets. It’s not the best, but is definitely okay if you’re only staying to sleep and freshen up.

We found that the Bighorn Lodge is a good value for money. It’s not a fancy hotel so don’t expect amazing amenities. It’s simple and straight to the point, a good place for a quick stay.

Grand View Mountain Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: No

Conveniently located near Rocky Mountain National Park and various shops and restaurants in Grand Lake, Grand View Mountain Lodge is a budget friendly log cabin style inn.

Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and shower. There is a shared lounge available for guest use as well as a pool table and free to use bicycles. The lodge also has its own on site restaurant.

One of the best things about this hotel is its amazing staff, including the owners. They are very hands on, friendly and accommodating. Most guests remarked that they absolutely loved the service that they experienced and that they will definitely book this place again for future trips. The food of the restaurant was good as well and live music is played on Fridays and Saturdays, but only until 8PM.

One thing to note, though, is that the property is not lakefront. You will have to walk a little bit to reach the lake, which is not that bad. Aside from that, the overall experience at this lodge is quite good.

For most travellers, including us, budget and location are always a top priority when choosing accommodations. Sometimes, you get good rates but the location is not that ideal or the other way around. In the case of the Grand View Mountain Lodge, we found both a good location and a good price point. We’ll definitely consider staying at this place again.

Western Riviera Lodging

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Western Riviera Lodging is a lakefront property located on the banks of Grand Lake. Rocky Mountain National park is 4.8 km away from this property.

Room amenities include free Wi-Fi, free toiletries, and a cable TV. Certain rooms are equipped with fireplaces and lakefront cottages provide a kitchenette. There is a dedicated coffee room on site, which provides free coffee for guests. Due to its proximity to Grand Lake, water activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing are easily accessible. The same goes for winter activities such as ice fishing, Nordic skiing, and snowmobiling.

We have nothing but praises for the Western Riviera Lodging. From the location to the staff, everything was amazing. The lodge is a lakefront property and all rooms have amazing views of the lake. The deck is filled with tables where you can play cards or read a book or just lounge all day while staring at the mesmerizing water. Another amazing plus for the location is its proximity to downtown, everything is within walking distance.

The staff is amazing as well. They are very friendly and attentive to the needs of their guests. The rooms are quiet, comfortable, and exceptionally clean. Some facilities may be a bit dated but everything else makes up for it.

Considering the price, this place is definitely one of our top choices of accommodation in Grand Lake. The views are stunning, it’s very close to the lake, the staff is very friendly and the rooms are very comfortable and clean. What more could we ask for?

 

By Scenic Location

Grand Lake Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: Yes
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Previously listed as an accommodation option that is close to Rocky Mountain National Park, we’ll now be talking about another plus for the Grand Lake Lodge: its scenic location. Located just in front of Grand Lake and surrounded by mountains and its accompanying vegetation, Grand Lake Lodge is perfect for a relaxation getaway.

For me, if you’re going on a nature trip, a cabin should always be among the top choices for accommodation. It just completes the experience. At Grand Lake Lodge, you get to stay in a cabin and enjoy the mountain and lake view. Depending on your mood, you can always turn to the mountains or to the mesmerizing water of the lake.

The Historic Rapids Lodge

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Another entry from the accommodations close to Rocky Mountain Park category, The Historic Rapids Lodge offers guests two options for exploring and appreciating scenic locations: the Tonahutu River and Grand Lake.

The Tonahutu River is just beside the property. If you want, you can enjoy a meal while enjoying the view and sounds of the moving water. If you’re more into vast and deep bodies of water, head over to Grand Lake, which is only a 5-minute walk from the property. Considered as Colorado’s biggest lake, Grand Lake not only offers stunning views of the water but a multitude of activities as well, even in winter.

Western Riviera Lodging

Breakfast: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Swimming Pool: No
Air-conditioning: No 
Cable TV: Yes

Previously mentioned in the budget accommodations section, Western Riviera Lodging offers a breathtaking and close up view of Grand Lake, which can be admired from the property.

What we love about Western Riviera Lodging is the fact that you will always have an amazing view of the lake from the moment you wake up until you decide to go to sleep. From the property’s deck, you get to admire the waters of Grand Lake and the surrounding mountain scenery. Another thing that we love about this place is that if you suddenly have the urge to go into the waters, you can easily do so because of its lakefront location.

Among all the accommodation options in Grand Lake, Western Riviera Lodging is definitely at the top of the list.

 

Conclusion

Nowadays, looking for the best accommodation option for your trip is easier and harder at the same time. Easier in the sense that almost everything is digital now and you can easily search for accommodation options in your desired location at the push of a button. It’s harder because of the massive amount of options that you have, especially for locations such as Rocky Mountain National Park.

In this article, we listed our top lodging choices in both Estes Park and Grand Lake. With this, we hope that we were able to help you decide or at least narrow down the options in your search for the perfect accommodation for your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.

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