Welcome Estes Park lovers! Even though summer is over, there’s a lot happening in this quaint mountain town. We’re gearing up for winter activities, and I’ve joined in to help. As a resident of 25 years, I love being part of anything that shares this beautiful place with others. A huge number of business owners and organizations in our town joined together to offer their time and talent in creating another great festival in Estes Park, the Annual Winter Festival, just when a get-away is needed most! The winter lights of town, the elk lazily gathering around, and the snowy peaks surrounding us, create the perfect setting for fun, romance and relaxation.

This January Estes Park will be HOT. Heating up the month, Estes Park will host the First Annual Winter Festival, January 15-18, 2010, to coincide with the 15^th Annual Winter Trails Snowshoe Event. If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, take advantage of this perfect opportunity. The event offers free use of snowshoes, clinics and the most beautiful setting in the world.

And the season's just warming up! Some other outstanding activities include horse & carriage rides, a professional chili cook-off and wine tasting, photography tours in Rocky Mountain National Park, live music, star & planet gazing at the new observatory, an EarthFest celebration at the historic Stanley Hotel and much, much more!

Whether it’s snowshoeing amongst the evergreens in deep, fresh, powdery snow or relaxing at one of the luxurious day spas (or both), magical Estes Park is the place to be this winter. Take the kids ice skating, choose from dozens of restaurants to have a relaxing lunch and join in the snowman building contest in downtown Bond Park. Bring the family, spend the weekend, and enjoy a pristine winter wonderland!

Special lodging packages are available and some activities require advance reservation. Go to www.EstesParkCVB.com or call 1-800-44-ESTES for more information.