Even as we’re writing this post, we still clearly remember the crisp mountain air and the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains outside our window at Estes Park Adventure Hostel. Yep; that’s the kind of fun that awaits you here, which we think is the number one budget accommodation for exploring the wonders of Estes Park and beyond. Nestled in the heart of the charming town amidst towering mountains, the hostel itself is a historic gem. What was once the first National Park Service headquarters for RMNP is now a haven for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring 16 single beds and communal spaces, your hostel experience here will be like no other. Want to learn more about this hostel? Keep reading!
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Right in the heart of downtown
Nestled in the heart of downtown Estes Park, Colorado, lies the Adventure Hostel Estes Park – your gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and other exciting adventures. Picture a charming mountain lodge, footsteps away from vibrant local shops and restaurants, beckoning you with the promise of exploration. Heck, it’s only a five-minute drive from the national park. That was exactly what we got, and we were glad we made the right call by choosing this hostel.
The hostel, part of the Colorado Mountain School, was more than just a place to rest our weary heads – it was our base camp for unforgettable experiences. It allowed us to mingle with fellow adventurers in the cozy shared lounge, swap stories of the day’s exploits over a home-cooked meal in the kitchen, and more. The best part? The hostel made getting here a breeze. That’s because it has a daily shuttle that whisks guests directly from Denver International Airport to the hostel’s doorstep, eliminating the stress of transport.
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Rustic, cozy bunkhouse
After conquering a thrilling hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, our lungs were happy, but our legs were like noodles, and we were ready to crash in the coziest spot imaginable. That was where the hostel’s heated bunkhouse came in. Nestled upstairs and away from the hustle and bustle, this haven for adventurers boasts 16 comfy single beds tucked away in three separate rooms.
Thanks to the hostel’s room configuration, we were able to kiss fighting for elbow room in a crowded dorm goodbye. Each room exudes a rustic charm, with warm wooden accents and comfy bedding that begs you to snuggle in. Also, we didn’t have to pack our bulky sleeping bags, as each of our beds came with a plush pillow, a cozy towel, and a crisp sheet. The best part? The bunkhouse is heated, ensuring a toasty stay even on the chilliest mountain nights.
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Creating magic in the kitchen
Staying at a budget hostel doesn’t mean you have to always eat instant noodles. This hostel encourages you to embrace culinary royalty. When hungry, descend the stairs to your downstairs kingdom, a fully-equipped kitchen ready to obey your every culinary whim. To fully experience the hostel, we decided to cook in the kitchen whenever possible. We were shocked when we discovered that it was equipped with all the appliances we needed. From whisks to woks, spatulas to spoons, you name it!
Since it’s a shared kitchen, chances are you’ll meet other travelers wanting to use it, too. It’s a great chance to make new friends and share secret recipes. That being said, you should always remember to tidy up after your culinary creations and leave the space sparkling for the next aspiring chef.
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Fun in the shared lounge
In addition to the shared kitchen, the hostel also boasts a shared lounge, the perfect place to unwind and socialize. When not in our dorm, we loved talking to other travelers there. Soft music playing in the background and lively chatter bouncing off the walls gave us an authentic hostel experience. The lounge also features a treasure trove of board games and a ping-pong table, allowing everyone to connect and have fun. Get ready for epic matches and laughter-filled evenings.
“This hostel was everything we needed and more. It didn’t only allow us to explore the beautiful outdoors easily but also have fun without leaving the property.”
WOW Travel
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What’s nearby
We’re talking about hostels in Estes Park, Colorado, not resorts, so the activities on the property are bound to be limited. But being in downtown Estes Park, there are so many things for you to see and do within easy walking distance. During our trip, we made sure to make a stop at Creativity Cabin Estes Park. We truly had a blast at this painting studio. We spent hours painting on mugs and plates, which was a refreshing activity. Show off your creativity!
As we told you earlier, we loved cooking in the kitchen, which helped us save a lot on our trip. However, who doesn’t love a little luxury? That was why, on our last day, we decided to pamper ourselves at The Wild Rose Restaurant, a nearby restaurant serving gourmet American and European cuisine. The food here was phenomenal, and there were tons of different drink offerings, too. If you plan to dine here, you must order the Gourmet Greens Salad with Elk Medallions.
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Pros
- Strategically located right in the heart of downtown Estes Park.
- Every part of the hostel is well-maintained and clean.
- Bed linen and towels are provided by the hostel.
Cons
- Based on our experience, the hostel staff isn’t on the property all the time.
Conclusion
Estes Park Adventure Hostel is the perfect lodging for budget-conscious travelers looking for a social atmosphere and a convenient basecamp for exploring Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Set in downtown Estes Park and with well-maintained amenities, our stay was nothing short of comfortable. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay with all the bells and whistles, this might not be the place for you. But if you’re an adventurous spirit who thrives on camaraderie and appreciates a down-to-earth atmosphere, it won’t disappoint.
Read Also
- Top 11 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Estes Park
- 11 Best Camping Places in Colorado
- 11 Best Hotels Near Colorado Springs Airport
- 13 Best Places To Visit In Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the hostel serve breakfast?
A: No, it doesn’t. However, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen where guests can make one.
Q: Is there an airport shuttle service?
A: Yes, there’s a daily shuttle that takes guests from the airport to the hostel.
Q: Is there a restaurant?
A: Unfortunately, no. However, there are plenty of restaurants within easy walking distance.
