Estes Park is a treasure trove for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike. Known for its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, this charming town offers more than just stunning scenery—it’s a hub for memorable tours. We’re particularly fond of the Rocky Mountain National Park Safari Tour, for its blend of wildlife sightings, accessible hikes, and expert guides. That tour captures the essence of Colorado’s wild side, with multiple stops to enjoy waterfalls, alpine vistas, and the chance to spot elk, deer, and moose.
In addition, the Wildside 4X4’s Top of the World Photo Tour offers a rugged, camera-friendly experience crossing ecosystems and reaching over 12,000 feet, perfect for avid photographers. Whether you’re after a relaxing scenic drive or an adrenaline-fueled off-road adventure, Estes Park’s tours pack a punch with their diversity and unique perspectives on this mountain landscape.
Quick Overview
Estes Park’s top tours include guided safaris, luxury glass-top bus rides, off-road 4×4 adventures, private and group scenic excursions, and e-bike explorations. They cover everything from wildlife spotting and photography to cultural insights and adrenaline-pumping rides. Below, we highlight each tour’s strengths, so you can find the right fit for your Colorado trip.
1. The Rocky Mountain National Park Safari Tour
This three-hour adventure takes you through Rocky Mountain National Park with a focus on wildlife and accessible trails. The tour includes stops like the Alpine Visitor Center, Alluvial Fan, and offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and breathtaking scenery. The guide shares insights on the area’s geology and ecology, making it particularly appealing for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without extensive walking.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility—most walking areas are stroller accessible, and a wheelchair can manage if the person can handle getting in and out of a standard jeep. Reviews highlight the personable guides and the scenic beauty—one said, “The scenery is breathtaking and there are plenty of opportunities for photos.” It’s ideal for visitors short on time but eager to see the best of the park’s natural wonders.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a flexible, wildlife-focused tour with easy access and expert narration.
2. Estes Park: Rocky Mountain National Park Glass-Top Bus Tour
If comfort and panoramic views are your priority, this luxury glass-top bus tour offers a fantastic way to experience RMNP. For about $147, you’ll enjoy retractable roof rides, with complimentary snacks included, making this a relaxed, premium experience. The tour takes you above 12,000 feet on Trail Ridge Road and includes a stop at the highest visitor center in the National Park System.
During this tour, you’ll witness the sunset and stars on a later evening trip, adding a magical touch. The guide takes you along Old Fall River Road, a historic route rarely experienced by visitors. Reviewers praise the “amazing views” and the opportunity to climb above the clouds, making it ideal for photographers and sunset lovers.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those who value comfort, scenic vistas, and an easy-going atmosphere.
3. Wildside 4X4’s Top of the World Photo Tour
This three-hour guided 4×4 tour is a favorite for photography enthusiasts. It crosses three ecosystems, climbs over 12,000 feet, and stops at iconic spots like Sheep Lake, known for moose sightings. No glass windows in the vehicle mean you get unobstructed views, perfect for taking high-quality photos of the landscape and wildlife.
Guests often mention the knowledgeable guide sharing insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history, starting with the 1909 Stanley Hotel. The small group size—up to 18 travelers—ensures a personal experience. It’s especially suitable if you want an intimate, off-road adventure with plenty of chances for wildlife sightings like elk, deer, and moose.
Bottom Line: Top choice for photography lovers who want a rugged, immersive experience with expert guidance.
4. Estes Park: Rocky Mountain National Park Safari Tour
This three-hour safari takes you through the majesty of RMNP with multiple stops along the way, capturing the best scenery and wildlife opportunities. The tour emphasizes learning from knowledgeable guides and ensures you see diverse habitats, from meadows to rivers.
It’s a flexible, engaging option for those who want a balance of wildlife spotting, scenic hikes, and accessible exploration. Reviewers appreciate the “breathtaking scenery” and the “very knowledgeable guide.” The tour includes a journey on Old Fall River Road, the oldest road over the Continental Divide, adding a historical touch.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking an accessible, wildlife-rich experience in a shorter timeframe.
5. Private and Personalized Three Hour Morning Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park
For those wanting exclusivity, this private morning tour offers a tailored experience for up to four people. The guide picks you up from your lodging or the Visitor Center and customizes the trip based on the season and your interests. Expect to focus on wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, or snowshoe walks in winter, or the highest roads in summer.
Guests frequently mention the personalized attention and flexibility, with one saying, “Bruce was very knowledgeable and made the trip so memorable.” It’s ideal if you prefer a private guide who can adapt on the fly, avoiding the crowds and focusing on your priorities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a private, customizable, and intimate experience.
6. Private Three Hour Afternoon Custom Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park
This afternoon private tour allows you to leave the guidebook behind. Starting from your lodging or Visitor Center, the guide helps craft a personalized itinerary to explore the park’s highlights, focusing on wildlife, scenery, and local history.
Guests praise the extra attention and the opportunity to learn wildlife spotting tips. The tour visits Trail Ridge Road or Bear Lake, depending on conditions, with ample stops for photography and short hikes. The private setting means fewer travelers and more tailored experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a flexible, private half-day with insider tips and a focus on your specific interests.
7. Wildside 4X4’s Winter Wonderland Photo Tour
Experience Rocky Mountain winter splendor on this three to four-hour snow-centric adventure in a heated, custom 4×4. The tour features stops for sledding, exploring lakes, and waterfalls, with the chance to spot wildlife like elk and moose in their winter habitats.
Your guide shares insights about the flora and fauna of the winter landscape, and the vehicle’s open design makes photography straightforward. Guests note the hot cocoa, snacks, and the beautiful scenery as highlights. The tour is perfect for winter visitors wanting a mix of adventure and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Great for those who love winter landscapes, wildlife, and hands-on exploration in colder months.
8. Half-Day Retractable Glass Top Tour in Rocky Mtn National Park
This half-day tour uses a retractable glass-top vehicle to give panoramic, unobstructed views of RMNP. Traveling over two miles above sea level, you’ll visit waterfalls, glaciers, and the Continental Divide, with opportunities for short hikes.
Traveling comfortably in a small group, this tour appeals to those who want scenic, easy access to key viewpoints without the hassle of driving. Reviewers mention the “amazing views” and the “top-down ride” as highlights. It’s a good fit for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed tour.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors wanting a scenic, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
9. The Premier Wildlife Tours in Rocky Mountain National Park
If wildlife is your main goal, this full-day tour is unbeatable. Traveling up to 8-12 hours, the guide focuses solely on spotting animals like bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mule deer, and more. The tour covers the entire park, including Trail Ridge Road and lesser-visited areas.
Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guide Chad, who points out animals and explains their behaviors, making it a must for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The tour’s length allows for a deep dive into the park’s biodiversity.
Bottom Line: For wildlife lovers seeking an in-depth, full-day experience with expert guidance.
10. Estes Park Guided E-Bike Tour
This two-hour e-bike tour offers a relaxed way to explore Estes Park and nearby natural attractions. You’ll visit spots like the Chrysalis at the Stanley Hotel, Lake Estes Marina, and downtown Estes, with water and helmets included. The bikes’ pedal-assist means you can cover more ground with less effort.
Perfect for all fitness levels, guests mention how fun and easy the ride is—one reviewer said, “It was really a great experience.” It’s ideal if you want a mix of sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and cultural sites without breaking a sweat.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a light, scenic ride with excellent photo opportunities.
11. Estes Park Guided Ebike Tour Explore a Mountain Town by Ebike
This two-hour guided e-bike tour offers a rundown of Estes Park, stopping at Lake Estes, Main Street, and the Stanley Hotel. With top-rated guides and small groups, you’ll learn about the town’s history and spot local wildlife.
Guests enjoy the informative narration and the ease of riding even if they’re new to e-bikes. One reviewer noted, “Charles was a fantastic guide,” and praised how much they saw and learned. It’s a great option for those wanting relaxed, scenic exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an efficient, informative tour of Estes Park and its surroundings.
12. Half-Day Rocky Mountain National Park “Mountains to Sky Tour”
This four-hour tour combines a guided drive with a photography lesson from a local photographer. It takes you through key spots like Trail Ridge Road, the Continental Divide, and Kawuneeche Valley, with stops for wildlife and scenic photos.
The guide handles the driving, so you can focus on capturing the vistas. Reviewers highlight the “professional-quality photos” and the knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing and photography advice.
Bottom Line: Great for photographers and those eager to learn how to better capture the park’s beauty.
13. Wildside 4X4’s Rock’n Roller Coaster Tour
Looking for a thrill? This 3.5-hour off-road ride in a speedy 4×4 takes you through steep hills and rugged terrain in Roosevelt National Forest. The tour includes stops at photo vantage points of mountain ranges and Estes Park, plus opportunities for sledding and exploring lakes and waterfalls.
Guests rave about the speed and adventure—one called it an “absolute blast”—and the photo opportunities. The rugged terrain and fast pace are best for those seeking excitement and unique vistas.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure-seekers wanting a high-energy off-road experience with great photo stops.
14. Winter / Spring Private Rocky Mountain National Park Guided Tour
This 4 to 5-hour private tour offers a personalized winter or spring experience. It includes snowshoeing at Bear Lake, driving Trail Ridge Road as weather allows, and seeing frozen waterfalls. The guide handles all logistics, providing a comfortable, private experience.
Reviewers emphasize the personalized approach and the chance to see the park in its snow-covered glory. It’s suited for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate, and scenic winter adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a private, relaxed exploration of Rocky in the colder months.
15. Private Rocky Mountain National Park 4 Hour Tour
This private four-hour tour focuses on tailored experiences, with guides sharing wildlife, ecology, and history. It’s flexible for hiking or scenic stops and includes hiking poles and spikes if needed. You can choose to meet at the park or be picked up.
Reviewers note the friendly guides and personalized approach—one said, “Brandon was friendly and knowledgeable,” making it ideal for travelers seeking a custom tour.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a private, customizable half-day with insider tips.
16. Full-Day Rocky Mountain National Park “Over The Top Tour”
For the ultimate adventure, this full-day tour with a professional photographer covers Trail Ridge Road, Kawuneeche Valley, and includes lunch at Grand Lake. You’ll learn how to take quality photos, with stops at key scenic spots to capture wildlife and vistas.
Guests love how it combines scenic drives, photography lessons, and ample wildlife encounters. The longer duration lets you explore the park without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography enthusiasts and travelers wanting an in-depth, all-day Rocky Mountain experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For wildlife lovers, the Premier Wildlife Tour offers an in-depth day, while casual visitors may prefer the Glass-Top Bus for comfort and ease. If photography is your passion, the Mountains to Sky combines scenic views with expert tips.
Budget-conscious travelers might opt for shorter, private, or accessible tours like the 3-hour private morning or the E-bike trips, which blend fun with affordability. Remember that booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Final Thoughts
From wildlife safaris and off-road thrill rides to relaxed scenic drives and personalized private tours, Estes Park offers a broad spectrum of experiences. If you’re a nature enthusiast seeking a deep dive into wildlife, consider the Wildlife Tour. For photographers eager to capture the mountains’ wild beauty, the Mountains to Sky or Full-Day Photo Tour are perfect.
Travelers wanting comfort and convenience might prefer the Glass-Top Bus, while adventure-seekers can’t go wrong with the Rock’n Roller Coaster. Regardless of your choice, Estes Park’s tours promise to deepen your appreciation of Colorado’s rugged beauty—just remember to book early and pack your camera.