Colorado is home to many sought-after attractions. Popular ski resorts like Aspen and Vail often come to mind for winter sports enthusiasts, while the state’s capital, Denver, delivers an arts and brewery scene that drives millions of tourists each year (via Road Genius). And then there’s the famed Rocky Mountains (aka the Rockies), one of the largest mountain ranges in North America, spanning 3,000 miles. Colorado is often considered the heart of the breathtaking stretch, which also passes through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and New Mexico.
While travelers regularly venture to the many national parks in the Rockies (i.e., Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks, the latter of which are outside of Colorado), there are other destinations in the center of this idyllic location that should also be on your radar, specifically YMCA hideaways for their affordable lodging and entertainment. Read on for more about these two iconic spots and the fun activities and amenities they offer.
YMCA Estes Park Center
If you’re unfamiliar with YMCA Estes Park Center (EPC), you may be inspired to visit after reading this post. The resort is just 15 minutes from the picturesque downtown Estes Park and borders Rocky Mountain National Park. The view is unforgettable, with 860 acres of ponderosa pines and the mountains, and there’s plenty to indulge in on the grounds, like mouth-watering dining options and dozens of activities (many that are included with your stay or Y membership).
Note: Memberships are not required to stay at YMCA resorts but allow priority booking and other member-only benefits.
Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Immerse yourself in nature with the multiple scenic trails leading to magnificent landscapes and greenery while spotting tons of wildlife along the way. For dog-friendly and wildflower trails, consider scoping out the Enger Family Nature Trail, the Glacier Creek Trail, and the Bible Point Trail. Nature talks and guided hikes are also available for a more educational experience.
One of the center’s most appealing aspects is its activities for all ages. Whether you prefer a more relaxed, creative setting, making crafts at their design center, or an active day filled with swimming, mini-golf, and rock climbing, all are available on-site. The resort also frequently adds special events to its calendar, such as nature workshops, roller skate discos, and guided outings.
Also included in the YMCA’s on-site offerings are delicious meals from the Aspen Dining Room, Rustic Café, and the Pine Room. Guests can then wind down in one of their numerous affordable lodging options, including lodge rooms, cabins, or yurts with family and pet-friendly accommodations. More information about things to do and booking is available on their website.
YMCA Snow Mountain Ranch
While perusing the Estes Park Center website, you’ll also find details about their sister resort, YMCA Snow Mountain Ranch. This cozy hideaway is located near Winter Park and is open year-round for the ideal Rocky Mountain escape. It covers even more ground than the EPC, with over 5,100 acres of stunning Colorado wilderness and jaw-dropping views of the Continental Divide. For those seeking a calming retreat or a thrill-seeking adventure, the Snow Mountain Ranch would be the perfect vacation destination.
More highlights of the retreat include the Nordic Center, which features 82.5 kilometers of groomed trails, optimal for skiing in the winter and mountain biking during the warmer months. They also have no shortage of fun with activities like zip lining, horseback riding, archery, and tubing in the summer, to snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snow tubing when the temperature drops. Visitors can also enjoy serene evenings around the campfire, as well as a ropes course and day camps for the youngsters.
Be sure to leave some space open for special events that pop up on the calendar, including seasonal festivals and exciting programs throughout the year. Regardless of the season, you’ll always be able to treat yourself to wallet-friendly dishes at Schlessman Commons, Buckboard Grill, and the Skinny Ski Café, with family-style dining. Or kick your feet up in their comfortable cabins, yurts, dog-friendly rooms, or via a stay at their scenic campground. Interested guests can further explore the Snow Mountain Ranch’s offerings on their website.
Explore the Rockies
The Colorado Rockies provide the best of both worlds. From gorgeous nature trails and relaxing evenings by the campfire in the summer to snowy mountaintop views and cold-weather sports in the winter, all kinds of vacation-goers would find their ideal getaway in the Mountain West.
We’ve given a particular shoutout to two YMCA resorts that are family-friendly and the basecamps of a mountain adventure. People have traveled around the world to visit the YMCA of the Rockies since its inception in 1907, and it has since transformed into a special hideaway, one we’re sure you’ll want to keep going back to.