Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I reserve a cabin?
The quicker you call Cliffside Cottages, the better the selection of dates will be available to you. Many returning guests of Cliffside Cottages reserve up to a year in advance, and sometimes, even farther out.
The bottom line: reserve as soon as you can. The fastest way to reserve a cabin at Cliffside Cottages is to call us at 970-586-4839. We can check availability on a cabin and also let you know what periods the cabin is unreserved.
If you don't have a preference on dates, we can let you know what dates are open, and you can plan your vacation around our available dates. Holiday weekends and festival weekends are especially busy times in Estes Park. So do not wait to make your reservation.
How close are you to the local attractions?
Town of Estes Park: The City Limits of Estes Park are about 1 1/2 miles away, but the shopping and restaurants in downtown are about 4 miles away from Cliffside Cottages.
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP): The main entrance to RMNP is the Beaver Meadows Entrance, and it is about 2 miles away. However, there is a walk-in entrance to the RMNP, which is within walking distance from your cabin front door. Please note: dogs are not allowed on any hiking trails or the walk-in entrance into RMNP.
YMCA of the Rockies: The YMCA is about a ½-mile drive. If you are in the mood for some exercise, it is about a ¼-mile hike on established trails.
Trail Ridge Road: Trail Ridge Road is a paved highway that runs from Estes Park to Grand Lake, Colorado. Trail Ridge is the highest paved continuous highway in the nation. This road is about 40 miles long and reaches altitudes above 10,000 feet. We strongly recommend this as a great "day trip" with spectacular views and bountiful wildlife,
What is there to do in Estes Park for a family?
When visiting Estes Park, you can go fishing, hiking, and shopping, going to museums and viewing wildlife such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and coyotes is also a fun activity, perfect for the whole family. You can also go on an aerial tramway ride to the top of Prospect Mountain. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, participate in mountain bike tours and horseback rides as well as white water rafting excursions on the Colorado and Poudre River.
There is miniature golf and other attractions.
Ride the Mountain Coaster, an adventure for all ages is available.
There is a festival every weekend in the town in September and early October. C;liffside is open thru October.
What should I expect for the weather?
One hard and fast rule for summer weather in the Rocky Mountains: prepare for the extremes. Days can be hot (low humidity) and nights can be chilly.
May: Overnight temperatures can drop into the 30s and daytime temperatures average in the 40s to 50s. The chance of snow is very real in early to mid-May. During this month, it is highly likely that you will experience the heaviest snowfall of the year in Estes Park. If you are coming to Estes Park this time of the year, prepare for cold and snow.
A lot of the local attractions have not yet opened for the season, but many restaurants are open as is Rocky Mountain National Park. Expect areas in Rocky Mountain National Park to be covered in deep snow. The Trail Ridge Road is closed typically until Memorial Day Weekend.
July and August:
Summer in the Rockies: The temperature can be in the 40s and 50s overnight and 70s and 80s during the day. Visitors of the Rockies often see afternoon rain showers around 3:00 PM, which usually don't last more than a few minutes. The rain lasts just long enough to cool the hot dry air. Humidity is low to nonexistent throughout the season. In this weather, T-shirts and shorts are the norm while sweaters or light jackets may be needed in the early morning and at dusk.
September: This is the locals’ favorite time of the year. The temperature during September nights can drop into the 30s, and during the days, it can be in the high 60s to low 70s. Sunny days are the norm, but there is always a chance of snow. However, snow does not stick around long during September, so you might wake up to a blanket of white, but by noon, it will all be just a memory.
If wildlife-viewing is a priority on your vacation, September is the month to spend in Estes Park. 99% of Estes Park and its attractions are open well into late September. The third week in September is usually the best time to view the fall colors. This month is also considered the best time to view wildlife in the Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding Estes Park Valley.
October: By October, temps at night are often below freezing, and day time temps average in the 50s. The crowds have left Estes Park, and a lot of the local attractions are closed for the season. Cliffside often closes in early October. Rocky Mountain National Park stays open all-year-around, so with a visit to Estes Park in October, you often find yourself at peace in Rocky. Trail Ridge Road is typically still open through mid-October, but there is no guarantee. Bring warm, layered clothing.
What do I need to bring with me for my stay at Cliffside Cottages?
All you need to bring with you is clothing and food. The Cabins at Cliffside come complete with sheets, blankets, and towels as well as dishes, pots, and pans. If the outdoor fire conditions allow, we have charcoal grills at each cabin for use by our guests. Firewood is available at many locations in Estes Park