5 day hikes in and around Estes
By Wendy Rigby Trail-Gazette
I
f you are visiting Estes Park for a few days, a few weeks or an entire season, there are plenty of trails to explore.
Centennial Open Space at Knoll-Willows
Right in Estes Park, just across Wonderview Ave. from The Stanley Hotel, is a delightful place to talk a walk and get a different view of the town. This 19-acre piece of land was purchased by the Town of Estes Park in 2002 to preserve its natural heritage and the crucial wildlife space.There are a handful of parking places at the Trailhead right off the road. The day I discovered this path, I encountered locals and visi-
of Lake Estes and all of the action along the water’s edge. There are benches everywhere that would be a wonderful place to sit and eat a snack or read a book. All of the benches were sponsored, and you can read about the donors on the plaques at each location. Rounding the corner of the short loop, Prospect Mountain is off to the left. I couldn’t help but think how fun it would be to watch people riding up and down the Tramway which is closed Wendy Rigby / Estes Park Trail-Gazette right now due to COVID-19. One of the windows at the Ruins remains intact, providing a The first remains of a manspectacular frame of the natural beauty beyond. made structure you come across are called the Ruins. tors alike delighting in the the open, natural character of This is what remains of the abundant views in all directhe property’s wetlands and 1907 home of Albert Birch. tions. rocky crest.”I started counHe was city editor of the According to the Trailhead ter-clockwise to the left, comDenver Post. The partiallysign, “a conservation easeing up on a flat space that See HIKES, pg. 36 ment permanently protects provided an incredible view
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