Forum Discussion
Thom02099
Jul 20, 2021Explorer II
If you want to avoid traffic (and there will be traffic in Boulder), stay on I-25 northbound to the CO 66 exit for Longmont. Take CO 66 west to Lyons and pick up US 36 there in Lyons. US 36 is not a difficult drive between Lyons and Estes Park but you will be climbing. There are periodic climb lanes on that route.
You could also continue further north to the Loveland exit for US 34 and take US 34 west up to Estes Park through the Big Thompson Canyon. Not a lot of steep, but a lot of curves and a few climb lanes as well. "The Narrows" at the entrance to the canyon is impressive and you'll need to take your time; you'll know you're out when you reach the Colorado Cherry store about 7 miles up.
Hopefully you already have a reservation for a place to stay in Estes Park. Finding an opening without will be a challenge. Most of the commercial campgrounds are likely booked completely and inside RMNP some of the campground loops have been restricted once again this season, making finding a place to stay very difficult.
You could also continue further north to the Loveland exit for US 34 and take US 34 west up to Estes Park through the Big Thompson Canyon. Not a lot of steep, but a lot of curves and a few climb lanes as well. "The Narrows" at the entrance to the canyon is impressive and you'll need to take your time; you'll know you're out when you reach the Colorado Cherry store about 7 miles up.
Hopefully you already have a reservation for a place to stay in Estes Park. Finding an opening without will be a challenge. Most of the commercial campgrounds are likely booked completely and inside RMNP some of the campground loops have been restricted once again this season, making finding a place to stay very difficult.
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