Estes Park is a prime destination for those wanting to experience the stunning beauty of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains in a single day. Its location makes it easy to access some of the most breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventures. What sets Estes Park apart is its combination of easily accessible scenic routes—like the famous Trail Ridge Road—and its variety of guided experiences that cater to different interests. Whether you’re after professional photography tips, wildlife encounters, or a personalized hiking adventure, Estes Park offers options that deliver memorable days in nature. Our favorite? The Full-Day Rocky Mountain National Park “Over The Top Tour” (link) because it combines scenic drives, photo stops, and expert guidance in a relaxed, small-group setting.
Below is a selection of the best full-day tours in Estes Park. Each offers something unique, from private tailored excursions to small-group hikes, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your interests and energy level.
1. Full-Day Rocky Mountain National Park “Over The Top Tour” – RMNPhotographer
This highly-rated tour offers a full-day immersion into Rocky Mountain National Park, led by a local photographer who joins you in your own vehicle. For $199 per person, you gain access to the park’s most iconic vistas with the flexibility of a private guide. The highlight is traveling over Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous highway in the U.S., reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet. Your guide will stop at key spots like the Alpine Visitor Center and Kawuneeche Valley, where wildlife such as elk, moose, and deer are often seen.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on photography. The guide offers tips on how to take professional-quality photos at scenic stops, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts or travelers who want stunning keepsakes. The tour also includes a lunch break in Grand Lake, a charming mountain town, before more photo opportunities and wildlife viewing. The reviews reflect consistent praise: travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the convenience of having the guide drive, and the chance to see multiple animals and landscapes in one day. The price is reasonable considering the personalized experience and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic experience with strong photography tips, all with a relaxed pace and expert driver.
2. Full-Day RMNP Over the Top Tour – RMNPhotographer
This private tour is perfect if you prefer your own vehicle and a more intimate experience. At just $199 per person for around 7 hours, it offers the chance to explore Rocky Mountain National Park with a dedicated guide who customizes the day to your preferences. The tour covers the same highlights as the larger group version: traveling along Trail Ridge Road to 12,183 feet, visiting the Alpine Visitor Center, and stopping in Kawuneeche Valley to look for wildlife such as moose and elk.
The key advantage here is privacy and flexibility. You can decide which spots to linger at longer, explore side roads, or focus on particular interests like photography or wildlife. The guide is experienced in sharing insights about the park’s geology, ecosystems, and wildlife habits, making it a tailored educational experience. As a bonus, the small group or private setting minimizes crowds and maximizes personal attention.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a flexible, personalized day in the mountains, with all the scenic highlights.
3. Rocky Mountain Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike
For those eager to combine a scenic drive with a solid hike, this $475.80 per person tour offers exactly that. Led by Master Naturalists with advanced degrees, the trip features a mix of driving, guided hikes, and wildlife spotting, making it a perfect choice for active travelers. The day begins with a drive along Trail Ridge Road, covering 48 miles with elevations above 11,000 feet, providing stunning tundra vistas and mountain views.
Next, your group hikes around Bear Lake, visiting multiple alpine lakes like Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake, with a manageable 3-mile hike and 702 feet of elevation gain. The guides share stories of the park’s natural history, flora, and fauna, offering an educational experience alongside physical activity. Additional stops at Upper Beaver Meadows and Forest Canyon Overlook give opportunities for wildlife viewing and landscape photography.
Reviews highlight the guides’ deep knowledge and flexible approach, customizing activities based on your interests. This is a shot for those who love hands-on outdoor experiences and want expert insights on the natural environment.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want a mix of scenic drives, wildlife, and hiking, with expert guidance.
4. Rocky Mountain Full Day Private Tour & Hike
This $972.95 per person private tour is designed for those looking for a bespoke experience. Led by Master Naturalists, it offers extensive flexibility—your guide will tailor the day based on your interests, whether that’s wildlife, geology, or specific hiking routes. It includes all the highlights of the scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road and a visit to Bear Lake for a hike around the lakes, plus panoramic stops at Forest Canyon Overlook and the Alpine Visitor Center.
What makes it stand out is the personalized planning—your guide handles the logistics, ensuring you see what’s most important to you. The trip is suited for travelers who want an in-depth, custom day with a knowledgeable guide and private vehicle, making it very comfortable and flexible.
Guests have remarked on the guide’s storytelling and attentiveness, making it worth the higher price tag for a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a fully customized, private day in the mountains with expert guidance and total control over the itinerary.
5. All Day Rocky Mountain National Park to Grand Lake Tour
For around $799 per group (up to 4 people), this tour offers a comprehensive, guided exploration of Rocky Mountain National Park with a focus on the highest continuous road in the U.S.. Your licensed guide picks you up at your preferred location and takes you on a 6 to 7-hour journey, traveling above timberline onto alpine tundra and crossing the Continental Divide. The route is flexible enough for short hikes, wildlife viewing, and photography, with an emphasis on panoramic views and unique mountain scenery.
While the price is higher, the value lies in the personalized attention and the opportunity to customize stops based on your interests. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting a private, all-encompassing day with the freedom to explore at your pace.
Because of the private nature, guests can focus on the sights that matter most, making it a flexible, high-value option for a full day in the Rockies.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups wanting a private, adaptable tour with a focus on scenery and wildlife.
$799.00 per group (up to 4)
6. Full Day “Grand Tour” Private Chauffeured Customized Experience
This $699 per person full-day experience is perfect if you want a completely customized day with a private driver and guide. The itinerary is flexible, but the tour covers major highlights like Trail Ridge Road and Grand Lake, with the guide handling all logistics and route planning. You’re encouraged to bring binoculars, trekking poles, and snacks, and to dress in layers for mountain weather.
What sets this tour apart is its tailor-made approach—your guide will adapt the day to your specific interests, whether that means wildlife spotting, scenic stops, or hiking. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you hit the best spots for your preferences, making it a great option for travelers who want total control over their experience.
Guests have noted the guide’s flexibility and personal attention as notable strengths, ensuring each day is uniquely suited to the group.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a fully personalized mountain adventure without the hassle of planning.
$699.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Estes Park
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you prefer a relaxed scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities, the “Over The Top Tour” (link) offers excellent value. For a personalized experience, the private options like the Full Day Private Tour & Hike (link) or the Grand Tour (link) are ideal.
Active travelers who love hiking and learning about nature should lean toward the Small Group & Hike (link). Budget-conscious families or couples may prefer the less expensive group tours, while those seeking a fully tailored experience will find the private tours worth the splurge.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure availability and the best guides.
Final Thoughts
Estes Park offers a wide spectrum of full-day tours that cater to different interests—whether scenic drives, wildlife spotting, photography, or hiking. For most travelers, the “Over The Top Tour” provides a fantastic overview of the park’s highlights with minimal hassle. If you prefer a bespoke experience, the private tours give you flexibility and exclusivity for a memorable day.
No matter your choice, these tours promise an authentic taste of Colorado’s rugged beauty. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you get the experience that best matches your expectations—so go ahead, start planning your Rocky Mountain adventure today.